About us

66 Years
Working
Experience

The British Judo Council (BJC) was formed in 1958 by Kenshiro Abbe 8th Dan who was sent to England by the Kodakan in Tokyo in order to encourage the interest of Judo in this country.  Shortly after arriving he met Masutaro Otani and formed a life long friendship.  Between the two of them they formed the BJC and after their respective passing, the mantle was passed onto Otani's son, Robin Otani who remains the President to this day.


The BJC promotes a traditional style of Japanese Judo with the emphasis on clean upright throwing with control and technique rather than force.  In groundwork, speed and control are emphasised in order to win quickly and decisively.  There have been many former BJC members who have made a great impact upon the world stage including Jane Bridge 8th Dan, the first women's World Champion and Neil Adams 9th Dan, Silver Olympic Medallist amongst many others.

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WHY JOIN THE BJC ?

The British Judo Council have member clubs spread throughout the country so there is almost certainly a club near you.  Our coaches are all properly trained, DBS and First Aid certified and undertake regular coaching courses in order to keep themselves up to date.
Our clubs are (almost exclusively) volunteer lead with enthusiastic coaches eager to impart their knowledge onto the next generations.  Indeed, this is the true meaning of 'Sensei' - He Who Has Gone Before.  Whichever club you attend, you can be assured of a warm welcome where the leadership team and the members will provide a warm welcome allowing all ages to train safely with enthusiasm and energy whilst they become fitter, stronger, faster and skilled in the Japanese martial art of Judo.

LATEST News

BJC Kata Tournament 2025 Results

04 Apr 2025

Congratulations to those that medalled at the BJC Kata tournament held on the 23rd March 2025.

The BJC award evening 2024

04 Apr 2025

The evening commenced with the the usual pre drinks, meet & greet.

One of the be

BJC Awards fundraising

04 Apr 2025

This year at the BJC awards the chosen charity was SADS ( Sudden Adult death syndrome.).

Th

BJC Awards shortlisted nominees announced

04 Apr 2025

Congratulations to all those that have been shortlisted for the BJC awards 2024.

If you wou


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UPCOMING EVENTS

FPJ Level 2 Coaching Course- Midlands

05 Apr 2025

This is an FPJ Level 2 coaching course and is only open to those who hold a BJC licence a

Leicester Area grading

05 Apr 2025

This will be a point scoring event.

Herts, Beds, Bucks & North London Combined grading

06 Apr 2025

This grading is for 3rd Kyu (green belts ) and above


More Events

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