El Idrissi Judo USA

Having trained in Judo during my childhood, I was thrilled to get back on the mat last year at El Idrissi Judo USA, and it's been an incredible experience! The instructors here are truly top-notch. Their knowledge, passion, and ability to teach at all levels are exceptional. Whether you're looking to compete at a high level or just want to enjoy Judo casually and get a great workout, El Idrissi Judo is the perfect place. They truly cater to both competitors and casual enthusiasts with equal dedication.

I recently signed my two sons up for Judo here and they love it! The instructors are patient, kind, and take the time to develop every child regardless of their skill level. I highly recommend this gym for kids of all ages.

El Idrissi Judo Academy is hands down one of the best places to train! From the moment you walk in, you feel like part of a family. Sensei Alaa is an incredible leader—highly professional, skilled, and knows how to push you to be your best, all while keeping the atmosphere positive and motivating. Christine, Ayoub, and Lori are absolutely fantastic as well. They each bring their own energy and expertise to the mat, always balancing hard work with a great sense of humor. Training here is not only effective but genuinely fun. They know how to make every session challenging yet enjoyable, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned judoka. If you’re looking for a place where professionalism meets passion, and where you can learn, laugh, and grow, El Idrissi Judo Academy is the place to be! Would you like me to make it even more personalized or formal depending on where you’ll post it (Google, social media, website, etc.)?

I had been training at El Idrissi Judo Academy from June 2021 to June 2025. To say that my time here was life changing is an understatement. Although I have since moved to another city, I wanted to comment on my time here. Senseis Alaa and Kristin are two of the most loving, knowledgeable and caring people I have had the pleasure of meeting. I came in completely new to Philly, as a prior green belt in Judo (after having taken some time off from training). They welcomed me with open arms and treated me like family. They made me fall in love with Judo all over again. They introduced techniques and ways of approaching Judo I had never thought of before. They were understanding of my very demanding schedule, as I simultaneously completed my medical residency training at Penn. And most importantly, they pushed me to be better every time I stepped in the dojo, culminating in a Shodan (black belt) promotion this past February after 7 years total practicing the art. Judo is more than just a martial art, it’s a way of life. I am privileged to have learned under two people who not only talk the talk, but walk the walk. To whoever is reading this, please let this be a sign for you (and/or your children, if applicable) to give Judo a go with this top notch club and these instructors. I promise you won’t regret it, and I promise you’ll leave a better person than when you walked through those doors.

Come for the Judo, stay for the family! While the accomplishments of El Idrissi athletes past and present are certainly impressive, the real value of this place is the community and atmosphere pain-stakingly crafted by Alaa and Kristin. Cannot recommend enough.