Brevard Judo Academy

Brevard Judo Academy

Welcome to Brevard Judo Academy, an adult Kodokan Judo club serving Melbourne and Brevard County, Florida. I'm David J. Ellis, Chief Instructor at Brevard Judo Academy (Melbourne, FL). I have practiced Kodokan Judo for more than 50 years and have spent over 40 years teaching beginners. My goal is simple: to teach authentic Kodokan Judo in a safe, respectful environment where every adult can learn at their own pace and enjoy the lifelong benefits of judo.

At Brevard Judo Academy, adults of all experience levels can learn traditional Kodokan Judo in Melbourne, Florida. Classes are offered year-round and are open to adults of all genders, races, and experience levels. Brevard Judo Academy is a registered USJA club.

Class Schedule:

Tuesday 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Thursday 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Dojo Location:

Located at Team Camilo
6545 N. Wickham Road #104F
Melbourne, FL 32940-2056

Am I too old to start judo?

No. We have had students begin judo in their 80s and even their 90s.

Do I need to be in shape to start judo?

No, judo will help you get in shape.

What should I wear to my first judo class?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing if you don't own a gi.

What equipment do regular students need to purchase?

A judo gi (judo uniform)

Is judo safe?

When taught by qualified instructors and practiced correctly, judo is among the safest full-contact martial arts. Safety begins with learning proper breakfalls (ukemi), understanding personal limits, and training in an environment that follows USJA safety standards.

How much does it cost each month to take judo?

Judo-only membership at Team Camilo is $159 per month.
Membership that includes judo and all of Team Camilo's martial arts programs is $179 per month.

How much teaching experience do the instructors have?

Chief Instructor David J. Ellis has more than 40 years of teaching experience. Wilfredo Torres Negron and Manon Saulnier each have more than 30 years of teaching experience.

How many black belt ranks has the chief instructor awarded?

Within the last two years alone, he has awarded at least four black belt ranks through the USJA. During his teaching career, he has awarded at least 10 black belt ranks through the USJA and USA Judo.

How do I sign up for a trial class?

Just arrive a few minutes before class, complete a short registration form, and you're ready to train.

Is parking available at the dojo location?

Yes, free parking is available.

Ready to see if judo is right for you?

Curious but not ready to join? Stop by any Tuesday or Thursday at 7:30 PM. Watch a class, meet the instructors, and ask questions. There is no obligation, and first-time visitors are always welcome. No appointment is required.

Building discipline and confidence through traditional judo.

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Mission Statement for Brevard Judo Academy

To provide high-quality traditional Kodokan Judo instruction in a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment, helping every student develop skills, discipline, confidence, and character while reaching their full potential.

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Why Adults Choose Brevard Judo Academy

• Traditional Kodokan Judo — Learn authentic Kodokan Judo based on the principles established by Jigoro Kano.
• Adult-only classes — Train with other adults in a focused, supportive environment.
• Beginner-friendly instruction — No experience is necessary; new students are welcome.
• USJA-registered club — Train at a recognized club with nationally recognized rank opportunities.
• More than 50 years of judo experience from our chief instructor — Learn from an instructor with over five decades of experience on the mat.

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New to Judo?

Never trained in martial arts? Perfect.
Over the years, we have taught adults ranging from complete beginners to experienced martial artists. You don't need to be in great shape, and you don't need to know anything before your first class. Our instructors teach beginners safely and progressively at a pace that is comfortable for you.

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What to Expect at Your First Class

Your first class
Meet your judo instructors.
Learn how to fall safely.
Watch or participate at your comfort level.
Wear comfortable athletic clothing if you don't own a gi.

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Is Brevard Judo Academy Right for You?

We welcome adults who want to:

• Learn traditional Kodokan Judo from experienced instructors.
• Improve your fitness while learning a skill you can use for a lifetime.
• Build confidence
• Learn effective self-defense skills
• Train for recreation or competition
• Challenge yourself mentally and physically.

You do not need prior martial arts experience.
You do not need to be in shape before you start.
If you are willing to learn, we will teach you the rest.

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Highlights of Chief Instructor David J. Ellis’s Judo Career

51+ years of judo
Rokudan (6th Degree Black Belt)
Continental IJF referee
USJA certified coach
40+ years teaching experience
National tournament experience in both shiai (competitive judo event) and kata (pre-arranged forms)

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Google Reviews

"David is a wonderful teacher. I highly recommend him for anyone wishing to start their judo journey or elevate their current skill in the art!"
— Jennifer Larsen (Google Review)

"Awesome. Spectacular. Amazing. Come get thrown at Brevard Judo Academy and learn how to throw other people."
— Kai Rittgers (Google Review)

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What is Judo?

The word "judo" is derived from two Japanese characters: Ju (meaning "gentle") and Do (meaning "way"). Judo has also been translated as the "Way of Flexibility." Dr. Kano explained that judo is based on the principles of "maximum efficiency" (seiryoku zenyo) and "mutual benefit and welfare" (jita kyoei), with the ultimate goal being the "harmonious development and eventual perfection of human character."

Judo is an Olympic martial art that teaches balance, discipline, throws, pins, and confidence in a structured environment.

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A Brief History of Judo

Judo was founded in 1882 by Professor Jigoro Kano, who studied traditional Japanese jujutsu and developed a safer system focused on education, physical development, and character building.

Judo was introduced to the United States in 1904 by Kodokan instructor Yoshiaki Yamashita, whose students included President Theodore Roosevelt. Since then, judo has grown into an international Olympic sport practiced by millions around the world.

At Brevard Judo Academy, we proudly continue the traditions established by Professor Kano while helping adults discover the lifelong benefits of Kodokan Judo.

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