A person with special Needs might find it difficult to socialise as they feel “different” and this could easily result in them feeling isolated and excluded. Sharing a passion, like Judo, will help people with extra support needs to break down the barrier that may exist and will help them to have a better adaptation to life.

Judo is a sport consisting of putting your opponent out of balance and on to their backs either from a standing or kneeing position, and grappling and hold downs from a sitting or lying postition 
There is no punching, kicking and the face is totally out of bounds. Movement & exercise through Judo offers numerous benefits, not only physical but emotional as well. Feeling “different” from your peers is difficult and often a person with Special Needs struggles with self-esteem and confidence issues. So focusing on their abilities rather than their disabilities can help them to feel more secure and independent. They will feel a sense of achievement, which can only bring self esteem and a motivation that just brings a smile to their face.

Judo is a sport where interaction with others is essential. Judo, like most martial arts, has a “code of conduct”. This will help a person with Special Needs to learn how to respect rules, how to respect others and him/herself. Without even knowing it their interactions skills and shyness would improve dramatically and all while learning Judo.

Judo has a fun approached to exercise. The whole focus is to have fun whilst learning, we include games as part of the warm up, cool down and as a tool to teaching new techniques. There is nothing better than a good game to keep everyone focused and challenged at the same time. A great way to learn without repetitive exercises.