Davis Ju-do Kai

The Davis Ju-do Kai at its current location, 638 Cantrill Drive

Davis Ju-do Kai, a member of the American Judo & Jujitsu Federation (AJJF), has been in Davis since 1964 and is an active sponsor and participant within the community. Sensei Lyle Najita is the current school head and has been training in Danzan Ryu Jujitsu since 1995 and martial arts since the age of 10. The dojo has 500 square feet of work-out area - ideal for small classes and personal attention.

Danzan Ryu Jujitsu was founded in the 1920s by Henry Seishiro Okazaki. Danzan Ryu or Cedar Mountain Style, named in reference to the Hawaiian Islands were it was developed, is a combination of techniques from a variety of martial arts, including jujitsu, judo, kung fu, aiki-jujitsu, and lua. His school, Kodenkan or School of the Ancient Tradition, was named in reference to the practice of having more senior students teach more junior students, a teaching tradition honored by the Davis Ju-do Kai.

Everyone is welcome to come learn this unique martial art. This style is accessible to all ages and abilities. We are committed to the idea that all who come in our doors is Ohana, family. We strive to practice Kokua, help given without any thought of return. What makes this style different from some of the other martial arts is that we train in order to perfect our character. In essence, we are studying Judo, in the sense of "The Way of Gentleness".

A typical class begins with an invigorating warm-up and stretching routine, including some strength and conditioning exercises. Students also learn rolls and falls, allowing practice of the jujitsu arts in a safe environment. The system is comprised of lists of techniques starting with very basic escapes from grabs all the way to weapons disarms. These techniques are taught and practiced in a "kata" or "form" style with a partner.

This week, classes are back to 'normal'. We will be closed for the 4th of July. Next week Tue, our Adult class becomes Randori class. We're replacing the Tue all-ranks Adult class with a Wed 7:30-9:30p all-ranks Adult class. Our Wed Youth class will meet at its new time of 6:00-7:30p. Interested new students are always welcomed, regardless of background or ability. This is a style of martial arts that can be done at different levels. I just got back from one of our Federation Camps and had the pleasure of working out with a 61 year old black belt, who was absolutely gung-ho. It was awesome! Come check us out, no obligation to join, no contracts to sign (waivers yes, contracts no).

Davis Ju-do Kai at its previous location, behind The Candy House of Davis.

The Davis Ju-do Kai at its former location, 1123 Olive Drive

Comments:

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2009-01-01 16:50:12   My son has been taking classes here since he was 4 years old, and Lyle has been a steady leader all that time. Now age 10, my son sometimes finds it difficult to fit judo into his schedule, but still attends whenever he can. The emphasis on self-awareness, self-improvement and responsibility has been a very positive influence throughout most of his life. Highly recommended. —JimFrame

2009-04-15 13:15:26   Lyle Najita is a great teacher, and the techniques of this art are fun to learn. The rates paid here are very reasonable for the amount of class time you can access. I highly recommend this school for anyone interested in learning a traditional martial art in a relaxed, fun atmosphere. —Parent of current student