Business Details
45 Years
experience
Join the Premier Martial Arts Club in Lake Country, BC
Founded in 1981, Lake Country Judo Club has been a cornerstone of martial arts training in British Columbia for over four decades. Our club was established by Sensei Bob Greichen and has evolved under the leadership of world-class instructors like Sensei Kathy Hubble, a 7-time World Masters Champion, and Sensei Chris Smiley, a 5-time Canadian Veterans Champion. We specialize in Judo and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, offering programs for children aged 4-12 and adults of all skill levels. Our curriculum emphasizes physical fitness, mental discipline, and character development, rooted in traditional martial arts principles while maintaining a modern, accessible approach. With a proven track record of producing national and international competitors, we combine technical excellence with a welcoming, family-oriented environment.Our instructors bring decades of competitive experience and personalized coaching to help students achieve their goals, whether recreational or competitive. We prioritize safety, inclusivity, and community, ensuring every member feels supported in their journey. From foundational techniques to advanced competition training, our structured programs cater to diverse needs while fostering respect, self-confidence, and lifelong skills. Our commitment to quality instruction and student growth has made us a trusted name in the Okanagan region.
Services
Judo
Brazilian Jiu-jitsu
Kids Classes
Adult Classes
Competitive Training
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- World-class instructors with 7 national/international championship titles
- Proven curriculum for competitive and recreational martial artists
- Family-friendly environment with intergenerational mentorship
- Specialized programs for children aged 4+ and adults
- Track record of producing national championship medalists
What people say
Amazing Club
Great coaches
Lifelong friends
Bully-proof environment
Tight knit family
Services
Judo
Judo instruction focuses on throws, grappling, and self-defense techniques rooted in Japanese martial arts tradition. Our program develops physical strength, mental discipline, and competitive skills for all ages. Students learn through structured drills, partner practice, and controlled sparring while emphasizing safety and proper technique.
Brazilian Jiu-jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-jitsu training emphasizes ground fighting and submission techniques through live sparring and technical drills. Our curriculum builds strategic thinking, physical conditioning, and practical self-defense capabilities. Classes cater to beginners and advanced practitioners seeking competitive or recreational development.
Kids Classes
Specialized martial arts instruction for children aged 4-12 builds coordination, discipline, and confidence through age-appropriate techniques. Our structured classes introduce fundamental movements, safety practices, and character-building principles in a fun, supportive environment that encourages physical literacy.
Competitive Training
Advanced training program prepares athletes for local, national, and international competitions through specialized technique refinement and strategic sparring. Our championship-winning instructors provide personalized coaching to develop competitive edge while maintaining focus on technical precision and sportsmanship.
Adult Classes
Adult martial arts classes combine physical conditioning with technical skill development through structured drills and partner exercises. Our program accommodates all experience levels, focusing on practical self-defense applications, stress relief, and community building in a supportive training environment.
People
Kathy Hubble
Head Instructor
7-time World Masters Champion in Judo and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu with 25+ years of competitive experience. Former stunt performer in 100+ film/TV productions, bringing unique expertise to martial arts instruction.
Chris Smiley
Instructor
5-time Canadian Veterans Champion in Judo with 20+ years of competition experience across North America and Europe. Specializes in technical development and competitive strategy for advanced students.
Karen Freeborn
Instructor
Black Belt in Judo with 30+ years of experience, focusing on traditional techniques and kata instruction. Emphasizes proper form and historical context in martial arts training.
Terry Lamb
Instructor
Lifelong martial artist with 40+ years of Judo experience, specializing in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu cross-training. Focuses on adaptability and lifelong learning principles in instruction.
Wyatt Auch
Assistant Instructor
Brown Belt in Judo with 11 years of competition experience including BC Winter Games medalist. Specializes in youth mentorship and technical fundamentals for developing athletes.
Questions
What martial arts do you teach?
We specialize in Judo and Brazilian Jiu-jitsu for all ages and skill levels.
Are there classes for beginners?
Yes, all our classes accommodate beginners with progressive skill development.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes; we provide loaner uniforms for trial classes.
Do you offer competitive training?
Yes, we have a proven competition program that's produced national champions.
Are there family discounts available?
Contact us directly to discuss multi-member pricing options.
What are your class schedules?
Kids classes Tues/Thurs 5:10-5:50pm, Juniors 6-7pm, Adults 7:10-8:25pm, plus Sunday sessions in Kelowna.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Ken Adams
Aug 17, 2021
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A fantastic place to train judo!! Skilled and knowledgeable instructors, excellent programming for adults and youth. Incredible value!!!
Your Jeep Guy
Aug 05, 2020
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Lost a ton of weight, had a bunch of fun, now my daughter is into Judo too and we are super happy training together. Great club, I highly recommend this place!
Ken Adams
Feb 11, 2020
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Skilled, experienced and down to earth instructors, family environment, incredible workout, excellent rates. my favorite place to train!
Jake Vandermeer
Nov 07, 2019
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World class coaches that do a great job of making everyone feel comfortable no matter what your skill level. If you're looking to train hard for competitions or looking for a fun way to exercise and stay in shape like me you will find it here. Everyone is supportive and you can tell right away from the positive team atmosphere. I am very happy I found Sensei Kathy, Chris, Aaron and the entire Lake Country Judo team!
Kendra Weisbrodt
Nov 06, 2019
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Lake Country Judo club is where it's at folks! The number of Senseis that have dedicated their time to come out and teach the younger athletes is amazing! As a parent, I appreciate the combination of fun, accountability, training and competition opportunity my son receives. There is strong, multi generational mentorship happening at LCJC which… is such an important component to raising well rounded, confident young people. You only have to come once to see that this is a tight knit family who care for, support and encourage one another to reach their full potential!
