Safer-Falling Research

Judo-based safer-falling programs are still emerging in the U.S., but internationally, they have been studied and implemented for years.

Evidence-based programs exist in countries like Australia, the Netherlands, Spain, Japan, the UK, and Sweden. Researchers and practitioners are exploring how ukemi training can reduce injury risk and improve confidence, mobility, and independence for older adults.

The Falling Class is among the first programs in the United States to bring this work into a structured, community-based setting. In December 2025, TFC Co-Founder Matt Scheib presented at the 3rd Annual International Safe Falls Conference at Tokai University in Kanagawa, Japan. As the only American presenter, he shared The Falling Class methodology, early outcomes, and future vision for safer-falling training in the U.S.

This growing body of research points to a simple and powerful idea: falling is not just something to avoid, it’s something that can be practiced, improved, and taught.

As this field continues to evolve, The Falling Class is actively interested in collaborating with researchers, clinicians, and institutions to further study and expand safer-falling training in the U.S.