East Bay Judo Institute

East Bay Judo Institute offers Judo training through a Kid's Class, an Adult Class, and an Advanced Class. Training is conducted in a classical Japanese manner, and students learn Judo techniques along with important rules of etiquette and behavior. In the beginning children’s class, instruction focuses on teaching the basics of Judo, and students first learn how to fall comfortably and safely.

• Ages: 5–18 years old

The East Bay Judo Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to the teaching of Kodokan Judo. Its mission states that classes emphasize personal development via technical training, over and above results in competition, and that the goal is for students to develop their minds and characters, as well as their bodies, through training in Judo. The development of perseverance, modesty, and respect for others are described as the aims of Kodokan Judo and of the East Bay Judo Institute.

The instructional staff includes many current and former national champions. The leadership team includes founder and Program Director David Matsumoto, Head Instructor Dan Israel, former head instructor Takayuki Kawakami, and acknowledges Jigoro Kano as the founder of Judo. Members of the East Bay Judo Institute have participated in events all over the world, including the World Championships and Olympic Games. The program describes itself as one of the leading schools of judo instruction in the United States and has been voted Best Martial Arts Studio in El Cerrito.

The East Bay Judo Institute was originally founded as the Berkeley Judo Club in the early 1960s. The Adult Class is geared toward the philosophical and technical aspects of Judo while offering a light to moderate cardio and muscular exercise routine. The Advanced Class focuses on developing expertise in executing a select few techniques through rigorous practice and repetition.

According to the program’s description, the dojo is very committed to family and to the judo community, prioritizing giving back and developing positive character, and the judo families and kids have formed a positive support system to help each person grow and overcome challenges on and off the mat. Parent testimonials describe the East Bay Judo Institute as a place of growth for their families, mention support from dojo friends during cancer treatments, and note that the environment is fun but structured and that both children and parents have formed friendships through the program.

Last updated April 4, 2026.