Art of Takedowns
Art of Takedowns Judo Academy, 601 N. Broadway, Ste B, Escondido, CA 92025
About
Art of Takedowns offers Judo classes, no-gi grappling and wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu, and self-defense. The academy also offers competition training and a competition team for all ages and skill levels. These classes are listed for kids, teens, and adults starting at age 5.
Programs
- Judo classes — kids, teens, and adults; starting at age 5 and up · Traditional Judo; beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. The academy also offers competition training.
- No-gi grappling/wrestling — kids, teens, and adults; starting at age 5 and up · No-gi Judo / grappling and wrestling training.
- Jiu-Jitsu — kids, teens, and adults; starting at age 5 and up · Jiu-Jitsu training as part of the academy's blended disciplines.
- Self-defense — kids, teens, and adults; starting at age 5 and up · Practical self-defense combatives / self-defense program.
- Competition team — all ages and skill levels · Dynamic Judo competition team; the site also says it encourages judokas of all ages interested in competing to reach out and set a plan.
At a glance
- Ages: 5–18 years old
About the provider
Art of Takedowns is owned and operated by Johnny L. Guerrero. The team includes Morten Lund, Jordan Williams, Wendy Widdop-Cross, and Korey Widdop-Cross. The academy says it is dedicated to cultivating well-rounded grapplers through Judo as a foundational art, and it emphasizes discipline, respect, perseverance, a positive and inclusive environment, and support on and off the mat.
- Personal fitness training — Personalized health and fitness programs.
- Private lessons — Private one-on-one sessions are mentioned on the contact page.
No experience is required. Comfortable workout clothes are fine for the first class. Kids, teens, and adults are welcome. Beginners are introduced slowly and safely to randori (live sparring).
What families say
“Sensei Johnny Leon Guerrero is a genuinely rare and special talent in grappling. He's an elite judoka, but has devoted his life to studying and training the main grappling arts together—judo…” — Mike F. (1/26/2025)
“Sensei Johnny is an amazing teacher and mentor. His class is always detailed with help readily available. AoT is an amazing and welcoming environment to learn Judo.” — Anthony R. (5/30/2025)
Last updated October 9, 2026.
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