Goltz Judo

Goltz Judo offers judo classes that include workouts and general skill development. Students practice tachi waza (standing techniques), ne waza (ground techniques), vigorous warm ups, yoga style stretching, falling exercises, ground fighting drills, throwing technique practice with a partner, randori (free practice), shiais (tournaments), judo self-defense kata, grappling skills, and basic punches, kicks, knees, and elbows blows.

Goltz Judo was established in 1987. The program is led by Sensei Gary Goltz, 9th Dan, who is the Founder and Head Instructor. The program describes judo as a way to use both physical and spiritual strength, stating that training in attacks and defenses refines the body and soul and supports striving toward self perfection (Maslow's Self Actualization) and contributing something of value back to society. The program describes itself as a fun, effective, and affordable Olympic martial art in Claremont, CA, and states that new students are always welcome and encouraged to advance at a pace comfortable to them. It states that judo is ideal for developing confidence in children to help prevent bullying, and that emphasis is placed on technique, endurance, and flexibility rather than strength. The program states that a shiai is the best and safest way to train for a real self defense situation and that judo is ideal for use by law enforcement, security, or airline personnel. The dojo (training hall) is described as sacred, the teacher is always referred to as a sensei (one who came before), and judoka are encouraged to focus on mushin, being in the here and now. The program cites Dr. Kano’s two principles at the root of judo: seiryoku zenyo (to make the best use of your power) and jita kyoei (to go forward together with your opponent). Community recognition includes a Mayor Certificate presented to Sensei Gary on 2/21/2012 and a visit by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to the Hughes Center in 2005.

Last updated March 14, 2026.