Last year, British Judo launched an innovative project aimed at addressing the significant issue of fall-related hospital admissions among older adults, which number hundreds of thousands each year. This initiative focuses on teaching older adults—and the wider general public—how to fall safely, maintain their balance, and get back up with ease. Through the Finding Your Feet sessions, participants learn adapted judo techniques specifically designed to enhance their stability and confidence.
Two clubs are currently running pilot programmes in Scotland, supported by JudoScotland. We had the opportunity to speak with Jim Feenan, the driving force behind the Safe Falling, Safe Standing initiative at Carnegie Judo Club, and Stuart McWatt, who is running a similar programme at Garioch Judo Club.
Jim Feenan explained, “The programme supports older individuals, with 12 participants currently involved. Many of these participants face various challenges. We’re helping participants become more comfortable moving around, correcting their posture, and improving stability while walking. A key focus is getting them onto the ground and teaching them how to fall safely—forward and backward.” This approach not only enhances their mobility but also addresses the common fear of falling.
Since its inception, participants have shown noticeable changes . “Since the start of the programme, we’ve seen significant improvements,” Jim said. “It’s about creating a safe environment for everyone involved.” The programme draws on British Judo’s Finding Your Feet principles, aiming to provide older adults—who may not have previous judo experience—with valuable skills.
Stuart McWatt, who led the pilot programme through Garioch Judo Club, shared his experiences: “I was speaking to a guy who does pickleball, and he mentioned that a couple of members have broken their wrists from falls. I thought we can help with that, so I told him about the British Judo initiative.”
Stuart recounted how he introduced the programme to participants: “We took them into the dojo, had a chat about why we’re doing it, and we started off with light movement. We then got them lying on the ground and working on our breakfalls. By the end of the hour, some of the group stopped using the crash mats and were doing it on the mats.”
Stuart added, “We got them moving with the pickleball rackets.” He also addressed their concerns, explaining, “You’re better off rolling when trying to land from a fall, we’re doing a follow-up session soon. We had a very nice open discussion on how best to do things.” He highlighted the need for such initiatives, noting, “I was speaking to a woman rom the NHS, and she said you wouldn’t believe how many injuries you get from pickleball, so there is definitely a need for it.”
The positive impact of the programme is also echoed by participants. Neil Wilson who’s attending Carnegie’s sessions shared: “Since being here I’ve learned a lot, it’s really handy and gives me a lot of confidence moving. When I feel I’m falling now I’m in control and know what to do. Jim’s very easy to work with and you feel relaxed as he goes at a pace which suits everyone.”
Similarly, Pat Naggle reflected on her experience, stating: “I’m very prone to falling and have been all my life so I felt this class was for me. The staff have been fabulous, it doesn’t matter about your level of ability – it’s really inclusive. We’re all beginning to gel as a group and the physical benefits are bringing us forward. I’d say to anyone thinking about joining the class to come and give it a shot, it doesn’t matter your ability, you’re going to be very well taken care of.”
Through the combined efforts of dedicated instructors and the commitment of participants, the Finding Your Feet initiative is proving to be a vital resource.
If you would like to learn more about safe falling techniques with judo. You can sign up to JudoScotland’s coaches information session on November 22nd here