THANK YOU  -  I would like to thank everybody from the AJA who sent cards and also those who expressed sadness and sympathy on Facebook for the death of my husband Roger Downs. Many people knew him personally and respected the time and attention he gave to everybody who contacted him. Thank you all, Barbara Downs

The Amateur Judo Association (AJA) has been in existence since 1955 and is a non-profit making organisation dedicated to the promotion of Judo through a true spirit of sportsmanship and fairplay.

As an Association we organise a large number of events such as championships, gradings, training sessions and International trips for players of all ages and abilities.

All clubs on this website are affiliated to the AJA and have fully qualified instructors.

Judo is a sport that began in Japan more than a hundred years ago. It is a style of fighting where one opponent can defeat another without anyone getting seriously hurt. Boys, girls, men and women of all ages take part in Judo in many different countries all around the world

Judo is an ideal way of keeping fit. It provides a great cardiovascular workout which improves stamina, general health and overall fitness. Physical strength and flexibility are also improved as a result of trying to control and dictate the movements of an opponent.

Judo is ideal for all ages, male and female and attracts players from many disability groups.

Confidence and self-esteem are developed as players progress through the ranks and the very nature of the grading system ensures that the next goal is always realistic and achievable with effort. The grading system also ensures that players, whatever their skill level, will have opportunities to compete with players of similar ability and have a chance to experience victory.

Judo places a great emphasis on self discipline and respect for others. It is extremely rare to see any player act in a disrespectful way towards an opponent or official.  Whether training at the club or competing in the Olympics, bad manners or unsportsmanlike behaviour are never tolerated.

Many people find that lessons learnt on the mat help you in every aspect of life - increased confidence, self-respect, discipline and respect for other people.

The Amateur Judo Association - Head Office:116 Gravelly Hill, Erdington, Birmingham, B23 7PF.