Judo Classes in Tbilisi — Expert Training at Gymnasia
Judo at Gymnasia
Georgia has a deep and proud tradition in judo — and Gymnasia in Tbilisi carries that legacy forward with an adult judo program built on technical excellence and competitive spirit. Known as "the gentle way," judo teaches you to use an opponent's force against them through powerful throws, pins, and submissions. Whether you are drawn to judo for self-defense, fitness, or the path to competition, our experienced coaches guide you through every technique on some of the best tatami mats in the city.
Why Judo at Gymnasia?
- Rooted in Georgian Judo Tradition: Georgia is one of the world's great judo nations. At Gymnasia, you train in a program that honors this heritage with coaches who understand the art at its deepest level.
- Spectacular Throwing Techniques: Judo builds explosive power and timing through throws like osoto-gari, uchi-mata, and seoi-nage. Few martial arts develop full-body coordination and functional strength like judo does.
- Complete Martial Art: Beyond throws, judo includes ground work (ne-waza) — pins, arm locks, and chokes. You develop a well-rounded skillset for both sport competition and real-world self-defense.
- Character Development: Judo's philosophy of mutual welfare and benefit (jita kyoei) and maximum efficiency (seiryoku zenyo) teaches discipline, respect, and perseverance that extend far beyond the mat.
- Premium Training Space: Gymnasia's judo area features professional-grade tatami mats with proper cushioning for safe throwing practice, in a clean and well-maintained facility at our Lisi location.
What to Expect in Your First Class
A judo class at Gymnasia lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes. You begin with a traditional warm-up: ukemi (breakfall practice), which is the foundation of safe judo training. The instructor then teaches the throw or ground technique of the day, demonstrating with a partner before you drill it repeatedly. Classes include uchi-komi (repetition practice), nage-komi (throwing practice), and ne-waza (ground work). More experienced judoka engage in randori (free sparring). The session closes with a bow and cooldown stretches. For your first class, wear comfortable athletic clothing — a judo gi is not required on day one.
Our Coaches
Our judo program is led by experienced coaches who bring competition-level expertise to every class.
- Vano Churchkhelashvili — World Sambo Champion, National Medalist, and judo instructor for adults and teens. Coach Churchkhelashvili brings world-class grappling experience and competitive intensity to the tatami. Instagram
- Tornike Jugeli — Judo black belt and Strength & Conditioning coach. Coach Jugeli leads judo classes for ages 6-15 and develops athletic foundations across all age groups. Instagram
Our Facility
Gymnasia's judo training area at Lisi features professional tatami mats with proper impact absorption for safe throwing practice. The space is spacious enough for multiple pairs to train simultaneously, with a clean and well-maintained environment that respects the traditions of the dojo.
Class Schedule
Train judo at Gymnasia:
- Gymnasia Lisi: View Full Schedule
Judo classes run multiple times per week with sessions suitable for all levels.
Reviews from Our Members
What Our Members Say
I train judo here and it was very good training. Professional coaches and great facilities.
The only gym in Tbilisi full of daylight and positive energy. Wide variety of classes for everyone. Nice design, super friendly stuff, clean and affordable.
Gymnasia has become one of my favourite places since the very first day. Healthy community, helpful staff, professional trainers, great food and a cool atmosphere.
Pricing
| Package | Monthly Price |
|---|---|
| Trial Class | Free |
| 8 classes/month | 240 GEL |
| 10 classes/month | 270 GEL |
| 12 classes/month | 300 GEL |
| 15 classes/month | 345 GEL |
| 20 classes/month | 400 GEL |
Commitment discounts: 3 months -10% | 6 months -15% | 12 months -20%
Frequently Asked Questions
Is judo suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. Judo is one of the most accessible martial arts for beginners because the very first thing you learn is how to fall safely (ukemi). From there, techniques are taught progressively. Our coaches ensure you develop proper form before moving to more advanced throws and sparring.
What should I wear to class?
A judo gi (judogi) is required for regular training. You can purchase one at krivi.ge. For your first trial class, comfortable athletic clothing is perfectly fine — just avoid clothing with zippers or hard buttons that could cause injury.
How often should I train judo?
For beginners, 2 to 3 times per week allows you to build technique and physical conditioning without burnout. Intermediate and advanced judoka benefit from 3 to 5 sessions per week, especially when preparing for competition.
Do I need my own equipment?
For your trial class, just bring comfortable clothing. For regular training, a judo gi is essential. No other equipment is strictly required, though some judoka use knee pads. Gis are available at krivi.ge.
Is judo safe? What about injuries?
Judo emphasizes safe falling (ukemi) from the very beginning — it is literally the first skill you learn. This makes judo one of the safer martial arts despite the dynamic throws. Training partners cooperate during drilling, and randori (sparring) intensity is adjusted to skill level. Coaches closely supervise all sessions.
Can I compete?
Yes. Judo has a rich competitive tradition in Georgia, and Gymnasia supports judoka who wish to enter local, national, and international tournaments. Our coaches will prepare you with competition-specific training.
What age groups can train?
Our adult judo program is open to anyone 16 and older. Gymnasia also offers judo classes for children and adolescents.
How is judo different from BJJ or wrestling?
Judo focuses primarily on standing throws — using your opponent's balance and momentum to bring them to the ground decisively. BJJ specializes in ground fighting and submissions. Wrestling emphasizes takedowns and top control. Judo combines elements of both but with a unique emphasis on the art and technique of the throw. Many Gymnasia members cross-train in all three.
Ready to Step on the Mat?
Judo is a martial art that will transform your body, sharpen your mind, and connect you to one of Georgia's proudest sporting traditions. Your first class at Gymnasia is free — step onto the tatami and experience the gentle way for yourself.
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