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El Idrissi Judo USA
4.8 ★★★★★ 49 Google reviews · Judo dojo in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Affiliated dojo — reviews and the dojo's own info point to a recognized judo governing body or lineage (think USA Judo, USJA, USJF, Kodokan or Tenri). If affiliation matters to you, ask which body the dojo belongs to and under whom the head sensei earned their black belt.
Plan your first class
- Free trial or intro class most dojos welcome new members with a free trial or intro class — check their site or give them a call to book your first session
- Beginner-friendly all levels welcome, including total beginners — you don't need to be fit or have any experience to start
- Kids & youth classes kids and youth judo classes — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
- Women's classes dedicated women's judo classes — a welcoming space to train and start out in
- Competition a competition team for members who want to test themselves in shiai (tournaments)
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule elidrissijudo.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 215-313-6886
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 5:15–9 pm |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 5:15–9 pm |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | Closed |
| Sunday | 9 am–1:45 pm |
The classes they run
“They know how to make every session challenging yet enjoyable, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned judoka.”
“In the time that I’ve joined, my wife and kids have also taken full advantage of the opportunities made available for women only classes, toddlers, and small children.”
“In the time that I’ve joined, my wife and kids have also taken full advantage of the opportunities made available for women only classes, toddlers, and small children.”
“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.”
“At the time this review is written, Alaa (the head instructor) is on number 1 position in the USA for 66kg, and he just won gold on an International competition in Australia.”
Other martial arts here
“don’t need prior knowledge of wrestling or judo experience the team will teach you about everything.”
What members say
“Excellent instructors and capable of working with students at all levels.”
“They know how to make every session challenging yet enjoyable, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned judoka.”
“Where else can you train with former Olympic and world class judokas while still feeling that the school is truly a place for the whole family?”
“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.”
“It has really helped build my son’s confidence and discipline, and shows the value of hard work.”
“At the time this review is written, Alaa (the head instructor) is on number 1 position in the USA for 66kg, and he just won gold on an International competition in Australia.”
From the reviews
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.
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.
Where else can you train with former Olympic and world class judokas while still feeling that the school is truly a place for the whole family?! I’ve been a student for almost 4 years and have always been welcomed into the space with kindness and been blown away by the immense knowledge of Sensei Alaa and Sensei…
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.
New to judo? Start at El Idrissi Judo USA
El Idrissi Judo USA comes up as a beginner-friendly dojo, going by their listing and members’ reviews. If you've never stepped on a mat, that's exactly who a good beginners program is for. A few things worth knowing before your first week. First, you don't need to be fit or flexible to start — you get in shape by training, not before it, and sensei scale the intensity to you. Second, you'll start by learning to fall safely (ukemi) — reputable dojos build fundamentals (breakfalls, grips, a first throw and some groundwork) for weeks, live randori eases in gradually, and tapping early keeps everyone safe. Third, all levels really are welcome — ask about a dedicated beginners class time so your first session is alongside others who are also starting out, and remember to bow in and show respect (rei). Most dojos are happy to let you watch or try a class first, so reach out before you commit.
Your first judo class at El Idrissi Judo USA
Nervous about walking into a judo dojo for the first time? Almost everyone is, and good sensei expect beginners to come through the door. Here's what to know. What to expect: a typical first class is a warm-up, learning to fall safely (ukemi), then drilling a throw or two and some groundwork with a partner — not hard randori. Rest whenever you need to; no one will bat an eye. What to wear: athletic wear you can move in (or a judogi if you have one); you'll train barefoot on the mats. What to bring: water and a mouthguard if you have one — many dojos lend a loaner judogi for a first class, so it's worth asking when you call. As you keep training you'll add your own judogi. Live randori eases in gradually, once your fundamentals are solid. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign a waiver and meet the sensei. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.
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