JūYūKai

柔友会

A Judo Research Group

Located in Andover, KS, the Juyukai is an invitation-only Judo Research Group designed for adults who want to explore the full depth and breadth of Judo beyond competition.

We are a small, focused community of practitioners committed to studying, testing, and refining our understanding of Judo as a lifelong martial art.

*The Student Training Request Form is located at the bottom of this page.

Our Training

A Structured Judo Curriculum Built Around the Nage-no-Kata
Our study framework is centered around the Nage-no-Kata, which serves as the backbone for understanding core Judo principles. This includes a systematic study and application of the 40 throws of the Gokyo, fully integrated with ground control and submission work.

Practical, Real-World Judo Applications
We emphasize kuzushi (off-balancing), effective takedowns, positional control, and self-preservation, applying Judo principles to real-world situations. We are not interested in tournament point scoring.

Ground Game Integration
We study how to seamlessly transition from takedown to control and submission, blending traditional Judo with modern ground game concepts.

Traditional Forms, Kata Study, and Randori
We explore and practice formal kata such as Nage-no-Kata and Goshin-jutsu as living study tools.

Kata provides a structured way to understand timing, distance, balance, body mechanics, and intent. All foundational principles that directly inform our live training and self-preservation focus.

Alongside kata, we integrate both Free Randori and Position-Specific Randori into our sessions:

  • Free Randori allows us to explore Judo in a live, unscripted environment where timing, adaptability, and decision-making skills are put to the test.

  • Position-Specific Randori allows us to isolate and test specific positions (standing or ground), providing targeted opportunities to problem-solve and refine particular skills under pressure.

By combining formal study (kata) with live application (randori), we bridge the gap between theory and real-world execution, helping each member develop practical, adaptable Judo that holds up in unpredictable situations.

Personal Growth Through Judo

Judo is more than a set of techniques. We train judo as a lifelong practice for developing movement skills, mindset, and martial understanding, all of which apply far beyond the mat.

We train in a respectful, collaborative, and focused setting.
This is a space for thoughtful practitioners who want to train hard while taking care of their partners and their own long-term health. There’s no room for ego or reckless intensity here.

Training Format

We meet three times per week, for 90 minutes per session.
Training sessions include a mix of:

  • Technical study

  • Solo drills

  • Partner drilling

  • Positional problem-solving

  • Live application (randori, always with safety and control as a priority)

Exact schedule and location details are shared with approved members.

Who This Is For

  • Adults who love learning and want to deepen their Judo practice

  • Martial artists from other backgrounds who want to integrate Judo into their skillset

  • Individuals interested in Judo for longevity, movement skill, and personal growth, not medals or tournament results

  • People who value study, experimentation, and lifelong learning

Our Commitment to Jita-Kyoei

At the Juyukai, there is no tuition and no instruction fee.

We train in the spirit of Jita-Kyoei (mutual welfare and benefit) with the shared goal of deepening our collective understanding of Judo.

Training is offered freely.

However, as the group grows and our needs evolve (such as mats, equipment, or eventually a larger training space), members who are able and willing may choose to contribute voluntarily to help cover shared expenses.

Participation is never dependent on financial contribution.
No one will ever be turned away for financial reasons.

Our focus remains on study, practice, and shared growth through Judo.

How to Join

The Juyukai is invitation-only.

If you feel this aligns with your goals and mindset, you’re welcome to fill out the Student Training Request Form to be considered for membership.