Fall Better. Fear Less. 
Join us on Mondays and Fridays from 10:00am-11:00am

March Schedule:
3/2 and 3/6 Front falls
3/9 and 3/13 Back falls
3/16 and 3/20 Side falls
3/23 and 3/27 Front falls
3/30 and 4/3 Back falls

Balance and Backfalls Workshop

Join us for a special Brain Injury Awareness Month workshop!
Tues, March 24th | 12-1pm | $49

Workshop Info

What is Strong and Stable?
Strong & Stable is a skill-based training program that teaches active adults over 55 how to fall safely. Using progressive, science-based techniques adapted from judo and stunt training, the program demystifies the mechanics of falling through low-impact, game-based activities.

For over 30 years, Atlanta Judo Midtown has taught hundreds of students how to throw and fall safely. Strong & Stable combines proven safe-falling techniques with strength and balance training, all rooted in the core principles of judo. 

What is the program like?
Strong & Stable training begins very gradually. Classes start with slow warm ups and balance exercises, then move to falling progressions. All falls are practiced on cushioned safety mats. As your body becomes more familiar with the safer shapes, movements become slightly more complex and challenging, always at your own pace! Small class sizes allow instructors to offer individualized adjustments and modifications based on your comfort and mobility.

- In Level 1 Foundations, you learn the foundational shapes of safe backward, side, and forward falls. Students will learn each of these falls twice; first to learn the safer shape and then again to practice the movement. 
- In Level 2 Application, you apply your safe-falling skills to more dynamic situations, such as navigating uneven surfaces or tripping while carrying items.

What are the benefits of joining the Strong and Stable program?
The Strong & Stable program is designed to boost students' confidence and falling-competence. With individualized instruction, practice on padded mats, and a supportive small-class environment, participants develop essential skills to stay active. Strong & Stable improves:
 
- Your body’s awareness in motion
- How quickly your body responds when balance changes
- How force is distributed when contact happens
 
Strong & Stable students report greater confidence when navigating uneven sidewalks, carrying groceries, hiking on varied terrain, and moving through busy environments. The goal isn’t to eliminate all falls. It’s to move through life with more confidence knowing you have safer-falling skills!
 
*Please note, the minimum physical requirement to join Strong & Stable is the ability to get up and down from the floor under your own power.

Why Judo?
Judo, which means "the gentle way," was founded in 1882 by Jigorō Kanō. It’s more than a martial art, it’s a lifelong practice in resilience, adaptability, and control. While Judo is known for dynamic throws, one of judo’s foundational teachings is how to fall with intention, also known as ukemi.

What is Ukemi?
One of the first skills judo students learn is ukemi, or the art of falling. These techniques are designed to redirect impact, and protect the body. Check out the video above to hear from Sensei Willard (age 82) about the benefits of ukemi!

Strong & Stable in the News

Why should I be concerned about how to fall?
By 2030, the global population aged 65 and above is estimated to reach a staggering one billion. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death for this demographic. Serious injuries associated with older adult falls are common, costly, and preventable.

The fear of falling breeds a scary cycle—avoidance of activity leading to muscle deterioration, a decline in balance, and subsequently an increased likelihood of falls. This fear isn’t merely physical; it can spiral into isolation and loneliness, impacting mental and physical well-being. Studies have shown that the fear of falling directly correlates with the likelihood of falling.

Active adults can learn skills to handle unexpected changes in balance. Strong & Stable helps students regain confidence by demystifying the mechanics of falling. Whether you’re navigating stairs, walking the dog, or stumbling over a curb, everyone can expect to fall at some point. So, why not learn how to fall well? Click the link below to take a FREE Safe-falling Assessment and test your knowledge!

Photos 1 and 2 taken by Phil Skinner, The Atlanta Journal Constitution

Who should take this program?
The Strong & Stable program is designed for older adults who are generally independent and looking to maintain or improve their strength, balance, and confidence through movement. It's a great fit for those who may have mild changes in mobility or stability but are still active in daily life. Participants must be able to get up and down from the floor under their own power and should be cleared by their doctor for light to moderate physical activity. This class is ideal for those interested in a preventative approach to aging well.

Who should NOT take this program?
This course is not appropriate for individuals with serious or unstable medical conditions that limit mobility or require medical supervision. If you experience frequent falls, cannot stand or walk without assistance, have severe joint pain or swelling, get dizzy or lightheaded during normal activity, or cannot get off the ground unassisted, this program is not a safe fit. It is also not suitable for those recovering from recent surgery or for anyone unsure about their ability to exercise safely without first consulting a doctor. This program is not a substitute for physical therapy or clinical care.

Who are the instructors?
Strong & Stable Instructors are experienced in teaching controlled falling and impact reduction. Led by AJM owner, Sensei Matt Scheib, all Strong & Stable instructors actively train in Judo, and bring additional backgrounds in Stunts, Kinesiology, Personal Training, and Dance. The instructor team has trained with safe-falling programs from around the world, bringing best practices and evidence-informed instruction here to Atlanta. Strong & Stable instructors combine practical, compassionate coaching with extensive fall experience.

Who else teaches safe-falling?
Judo-based safe-falling programs are a fairly new concept, and Strong & Stable is the first internationally recognized program in the USA. Evidence-based safe-falling programs can be found in Australia, Spain, Japan, Sweden, and other countries across the globe. In December 2025, Sensei Matt Scheib presented at the 3rd Annual International Safe Falls Conference hosted at Tokai University in Kanagawa, Japan. As the only American delegate presenter, he shared about Strong & Stable methodology, outcomes, and future plans for the program. Want to invite Sensei Matt to speak to a group? Complete the inquiry form below!

How do I sign up?
Enroll at anytime! Classes are every Monday and Friday morning at Atlanta Judo Midtown. Our membership options offer you scheduling flexibility to learn how to fall safely at your own pace.

Please note, the minimum physical requirement is the ability to get up off the ground by yourself. If you cannot, please get medical clearance before signing up.