Nage no Kata Course (October 2026)

Develop your technique. Deepen your judo.

Are you interested in improving your technical knowledge and ability? Would you like to better understand how judo techniques truly work — and how to apply them more effectively?

Kata has a fundamental place in every judoka’s development and sits at the heart of Jigoro Kano’s teachings. Through kata, judoka refine their technical understanding, accuracy, balance, and control. This learning is then reinforced through randori (non-contest training), where skills are challenged, tested, and brought to life.

Expert Course Leaders

Over the past decade, we have been delighted to work with David Gibson (5th Dan) and Colin Dunlop (4th Dan) — both BJA Kata Examiners and multiple medallists at the British Kata Championships.

David and Colin will lead this Nage-no-Kata course, guiding participants through each set with clarity and insight, leaving you with a deeper understanding of:

• Breaking balance (kuzushi)

• Correct positioning and movement

• Control, timing, and technical precision

• How kata directly improves your overall judo

Who is this course for?

• Open to judoka aged 13 years and over

• Suitable for all grades with an interest in self-improvement

• Ideal for grading preparation, coach development, and technical refinement

Participants are encouraged to bring a partner they are comfortable working with to gain the most from the course. Where possible, a white judogi is preferred for kata practice.

Qualifications & Progression

Opportunities to obtain a kata qualification can be discussed during the course. Kata examinations are typically held at National Gradings, and the learning from this course directly supports Dan grade theory requirements.

While suitable for coach revalidation, this course is not just for coaches — it is for any judoka committed to developing their judo.