Adapted Judo
JudoScotland is dedicated to making judo accessible, inclusive, and empowering for everyone. Our Adapted Judo Pathway, aligned with the latest European Judo Union (EJU) and International Judo Federation (IJF) standards, ensures that every judoka—regardless of ability—can participate, progress, and thrive.
Whether you’re a judoka, parent, coach, or club leader, there’s a place for you in the Adaptive Judo community. If you have any questions or require more information about joining, training, or making your club more inclusive. please contact JudoScotland’s Disability Development Officer, Stephen Somerville – StephenSomerville@judoscotland.com
Understanding the Adapted Judo Pathway
Adapted Judo is structured into six progressive levels, each with clear criteria and adaptations. This system ensures safety, fairness, and meaningful participation for all, whether your goal is recreation, development, or high-level competition.
Divisioning & Eligibility
All competitors must attend a divisioning assessment before competition, where their judo skills, reaction speed, strength, ukemi, weight, gender, and age are reviewed. This ensures fair, safe, and meaningful matches.
How to be actively inclusive in your club
An inclusive club is one where everyone feels welcome, respected, and able to participate fully, regardless of background, identity, or ability. Inclusion is about more than just access—it’s about creating a culture of belonging.
Brightspace Module – Creating a neurodivergent, inclusive culture in sport
This online workshop is designed to help upskill coaches in inclusive judo. This workshop aims to offer an opportunity to enhance your coaching skills and knowledge, focusing on the unique needs of athletes with disabilities to empower you with the skills and confidence to make judo accessible and enjoyable for everyone, contributing to a more inclusive and dynamic sport.
Top Tips for Active Inclusion
- Start with a Warm Welcome
Make it clear in your messaging, website, and social media that everyone is welcome. Use inclusive language and imagery. - Understand Your Members
Take time to learn about the needs, preferences, and goals of each member. This helps tailor support and adapt sessions. - Adapt and Flex
Be ready to modify activities, equipment, and rules so everyone can participate safely and enjoyably. - Train Your Team
Provide regular training for coaches and volunteers on inclusion, disability awareness, and adaptive coaching. - Create a Buddy System
Pair new or less confident members with experienced buddies to help them settle in. - Ask for Feedback
Encourage open communication and regularly ask members how the club can be more inclusive. - Celebrate Diversity
Recognise and celebrate the achievements and contributions of all members. Share stories and successes. - Connect with Experts
Work with local disability organisations, schools, and community groups to share best practice and reach more people. - Review and Reflect
Regularly review your club’s policies, practices, and environment to identify areas for improvement. - Promote Pathways
Make sure members know about the adaptive judo pathway and the opportunities available at each level.
