British Judo Shortlisted for Sports Governing Body Initiative of the Year
July 29, 2026
British Judo is delighted to announce that it has been shortlisted as a finalist at the Sports Business Awards 2026, recognising our Finding Your Feet programme.
The Sports Business Awards celebrate organisations and individuals who are making a significant impact across the sports industry, recognising excellence in innovation, leadership and community engagement.
Developed in partnership with leading academics, healthcare professionals, universities and community organisations, Finding Your Feet uses adapted judo techniques to help older adults improve their balance, confidence and ability to fall more safely.
Originally inspired by research into falls prevention, the programme has grown into a nationally recognised initiative that supports healthier ageing while demonstrating the wider social value of judo.
Over the past two years, British Judo has trained more than 330 coaches and volunteers to deliver the programme in communities across England, working alongside Active Partnerships, local authorities, healthcare providers, Age UK groups, Parkinson’s organisations and other community partners. Together, they are helping older adults become more active, more confident and better prepared to cope with falls, while reducing isolation and improving overall wellbeing.
The programme has also attracted attention beyond the health sector, with its movement principles being explored in other sporting environments to help athletes improve confidence in contact situations and reduce injury risk.
Independent evaluation has highlighted improvements in participants’ confidence, reduced fear of falling, stronger social connections and real-life examples of people successfully using the techniques to avoid serious injury following a fall. These outcomes have reinforced the programme’s growing reputation as an innovative example of how sport can contribute to wider health and social outcomes.
Being recognised as a finalist at the Sports Business Awards is a significant milestone for British Judo and everyone involved in the programme, reflecting the dedication of coaches, delivery partners, researchers and participants who have helped shape Finding Your Feet into a nationally respected initiative.
The winners will be announced at the Sports Business Awards 2026 ceremony in London on Friday 27 November.
Everyone at British Judo would like to thank the coaches, partners and participants who have contributed to the success of Finding Your Feet and congratulate all of this year’s finalists.
