CCAs of NTU 25’: NTU Judo

Written by: How Hui Wen, Vice-President

The first time I stepped into a Judo session at NTU, I was thrown onto the mat, literally. But that fall turned into one of the best decisions I made in university. There’s something special about the first time you learn how to fall correctly, or the quiet thrill of pulling off a move you've practiced for weeks. Whether it’s the shared groans during intense workouts or the late-night suppers that follow, NTU Judo is more than just a sport. It’s a community.

Whether you're someone who’s never worn a gi (Judo uniform) before or a seasoned judoka looking to keep your skills sharp, NTU Judo welcomes all. We’re a club that’s grounded in discipline but fueled by camaraderie. Our goal? To provide a space where students can grow stronger, physically and mentally, while forging friendships that go far beyond the mats.

Who Are We For?

NTU Judo is for everyone. We welcome:

• Complete beginners: No prior martial arts experience? No problem. Many of our members started from scratch.

• Experienced athletes: Our competitive training will challenge and elevate your skills.

Above all, we’re looking for individuals who are committed, hardworking, and eager to learn.

At our core, the club promotes fitness, resilience, and connection, values we build through every training and shared experience. As you train, you’ll develop not just technique, but also confidence and discipline that carry over into everyday life.

What Training Looks Like

Our weekly schedule is a balance of conditioning and technique:

·      Physical Training every Monday, focusing on strength, agility, and endurance.

·      Technical Mat Training every Tuesday and Thursday, focusing on Judo techniques, sparring, and skill progression.

That’s three sessions a week. Enough to challenge you, but flexible enough to fit into your academic life. Trainings are serious, structured, and incredibly rewarding. But once the mats are packed? Expect a very different vibe.

Life Beyond the Mats

Outside of training, the club enjoys a healthy mix of planned bonding and casual traditions. Festive celebrations like Chinese New Year and Christmas bring the whole club together, while bonding sessions give members a chance to connect beyond the mats.

After training, it’s common for members to head out for supper—sometimes for a quick bite, sometimes just to unwind. It’s entirely optional, but always open to anyone who wants to join. These moments, whether spontaneous or organised, help foster a supportive and tight-knit community.

NTU Judo strikes a good balance. Serious and focused during training, and laid-back and welcoming off the mats. Whether you're attending a club event or sharing laughs over late-night snacks, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to build friendships along the way.

My Experience, Then and Now

When I first joined, I expected a straightforward martial arts club. What I found instead was a welcoming community that trains hard, looks out for one another, and shares plenty of laughs along the way. I may still be a beginner, but being part of the club has helped me grow a lot in not only technique, but also confidence and resilience.

Now stepping into the role of vice-president, I’m excited to help create the same supportive environment for incoming members and continue growing with the team.

How to Join

Curious to see what it’s like? Come for our tryouts! It’s the best way to get a feel of the club without any pressure. No prior experience is needed! After tryouts, we’ll open a signup form for those who are keen to join.

Final Thoughts

Judo is more than just a martial art. It's about growing stronger together as a community through discipline and perseverance, which helps build your character in the process. If you’re looking for a place to challenge yourself and find your people, NTU Judo might just be the club for you.

Come say hi at our Welcome Week booth! We’ll be more than happy to chat, answer questions, and maybe even show you a move or two. Follow us on Instagram @ntujudo to catch us in action!

Other Information

Email: sc-judo@e.ntu.edu.sg