Are you looking to improve in judo or simply to join a club where you can sweat the ippon in a good mood? Then, welcome to this guide to the best judo clubs in France! Whether you are a white belt, black belt, or just curious to discover the world of tatami, I’ve gathered here the most reputable clubs, those that shine with medals and smiles. Are we ready? Hajime!

What criteria to define a “good judo club”?
Before giving you the list of stars, let’s talk a bit about the criteria that distinguish a regular club from a true dojo of excellence. Because a good club is not just a room with tatami mats. It’s a winning combination of several elements:
- Experienced coaches: a good sensei makes all the difference. Look for clubs where the coaches are certified and, if possible, have shone in competition themselves.
- Top-notch facilities: clean tatami mats, a friendly atmosphere, and modern equipment are important for progress.
- Results in competition: if you want to compete against the elite, check if the club is consistently reaching the podiums.
- A family spirit: not everyone wants to become the next Teddy Riner. Some clubs combine ambition and kindness, perfect for beginners or families.
And there you go, with these criteria, you can already spot the rare gems in your area.
The top 10 best judo clubs in France
Ready for the ranking? Here are the clubs that stand out, with a little focus on their strengths. Grab your gi and get ready to be impressed!
1. Paris Saint-Germain Judo (Paris)
PSG is not just about football! The judo club of Paris Saint-Germain is a true breeding ground for champions. With renowned coaches like Djamel Bouras, an Olympic medalist, this dojo combines demands and passion. The facilities are modern, and the atmosphere remains warm despite the elitism.
2. Levallois Sporting Club Judo (Hauts-de-Seine)
Levallois is a heavyweight in French judo. With an impressive list of athletes who have passed through its ranks, such as David Douillet or Gévrise Émane, the club is a reference for anyone aiming for the top level. If you want to dream big, this is where it’s at.
3. Judo Club de Strasbourg (Alsace)
A dojo that shines as much for its results in competitions as for its friendly atmosphere. Here, we combine rigor and pleasure, with attentive coaches and regular training sessions for all levels.

4. Olympic Judo Nice (Côte d’Azur)
Under the Nice sun, this club combines sport and a dream setting. Known for their excellent coaching of young judokas, they will make you want to excel… or enjoy the beach after training!
5. Judo 64 (Pyrénées-Atlantiques)
This club in the southwest is ideal for those looking for a family spirit without sacrificing performance. The programs are tailored for all ages and levels, with regular tournaments to keep motivation high.
6. Flam 91 (Essonne)
An essential club in the Paris region. Flam 91 is known for its impressive facilities and its ultra-professional coaching team. The club is also distinguished by its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
7. Olympique Marseille Judo (Bouches-du-Rhône)
When you think of Marseille, do you think of football? Change your perspective: the local judo club is also an institution. With a passionate coaching team, they take pride in developing local talent.
8. Dojo Nantais (Pays de la Loire)
A small gem in the West, the Nantes dojo is perfect for those looking to combine performance and enjoyment. Young judokas are particularly well supported, thanks to pedagogical and motivating coaches.
9. Lyon Judo (Rhône)
Lyon is not just the capital of gastronomy. It’s also a nest of talented judokas! With a comprehensive program ranging from children’s classes to training for seasoned competitors, everyone finds their place here.
10. Judo Club Toulousain (Haute-Garonne)
In Toulouse, they don’t joke around with judo. This club prides itself on combining tradition and modernity, with demanding training sessions but in a great atmosphere.

How to choose the perfect club for you?
Now that you’ve seen the cream of the crop, it’s time to find the one that suits you best. Here are some tips to make the right choice:
- Geographical proximity: Don’t kid yourself; if the dojo is 40 km from your home, you’re likely to lose motivation in less than a month.
- Personal goals: Do you want to train for fun or aim for the podium? Not all clubs have the same priorities.
- Schedules and prices: Make sure the classes fit well into your schedule and that the price stays within your budget.
To help you compare, here’s a handy table:
Criteria | Paris Saint-Germain | Levallois Sporting | Dojo Nantais |
---|---|---|---|
Geographical proximity | Paris intramuros | Paris region | Nantes |
Competitive level | Very high | Very high | High |
Friendly atmosphere | Average | Good | Excellent |
Monthly fees | High | Medium | Affordable |
My opinion: judo is more than just a sport
Joining a judo club is much more than learning to throw your opponent. It’s joining a community, learning values such as respect, courage, and perseverance. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, there is a club for you, so don’t hesitate to give it a try!
In any case, if this article has helped you clear things up, share it with those around you. Your friends or family may also dream of finding their perfect dojo. And if you want to know more about equipment or upcoming competitions, click on this practical guide to find out everything. It’s your turn to play, champion!