A judo club aims to strike the perfect balance between discipline and fun as it trains its fighters in the art of self-defence.

The Jodan Judo Club in Chigwell was founded by 77-year-old sensei Pete Salsbury back in 1987 and currently has 50 members from the age of five.

Judo which is Japanese for the ‘gentle way’, involves grappling and submitting the opponent and is considered a "very useful self-defence tool".

The club have turned out over 60 blackbelts, including 20 time national medallist and senior coach Gary Stack, across three age categories.

Long term member Cliff Wheeler wants to welcome new members to the ‘family atmosphere’ of the club, which hosts regular 'redbelt rumbles' for kids.

He said: “Any Mixed Martial Art fighters can learn a lot from Judo. It is very self disciplined, but also great fun for kids. For older people it is great for fitness, self defence and your confidence."

The Jodan Judo Club train at Limes Farm Centre in Chigwell on Monday evenings but are looking to expand to Wednesdays. 

The first session is free and equipment can be borrowed.

To get involved email cliffwheeler@me.com or phone 0208 550 0351.