El Idrissi Strength Dojo

"Martial arts is something that sounds scary, and can look pretty silly from the outside without any prior knowledge As a woman in my mid thirties I had never done any sports, let alone martial arts in my life. I started my judo journey in Chicago under an amazing sensei and a very supportive family, so starting again in a new city was very intimidating El Idrissi has people from all walks in life practicing judo. It’s so nice to be able to train with women my age and size as Well as young scrappy guys that can both give me pointers as well as succumb to my agility as a smaller gal Judo is family, and I’m glad I was Able to find one so quickly in a new place with sensei El Idrissi"

"In a word, home. My partner and I recently relocated to Philly from Chicago, where we were training with a crew we consider family (shout out to Sensei Maje and the homies at Evolution Dojo). After a couple weeks worth of stops at El Idrissi, testing the waters and getting a sense for Sensei (as a person and as a representative of the art), we took the plunge. We couldn’t be happier. The guys and gals that call this space home are plenty. At a month in, I’m still meeting new people every week - from white belts to black belts and everywhere in between - which makes all the difference for developing one’s judo. The air of humility, regard and respect is so thick you can cut it with a knife. As is the skill level. Sensei steers a tight ship. And he’s always at the helm. Always. Every day of the week. It’s actually pretty amazing. His commitment to his work is undeniable. All that said, if you’re looking for high caliber - judo, sense of community, self-mastery, etc., look no further."

"Have been taking classes with Alaa and Christine for the last year or so. My kids are 5 and 7. A boy and a girl. I am a former competitive judoka myself, and occasionally join the adult group. I am a very picky parent too! The way Alaa and Christine work with kids in my opinion is excellent. They manage a crowd of young kids very well being kind and playful, and at same time keeping boundaries and use just the right amount of discipline in the group. My children always look forward to the classes and I never had to force them out the door! Alaa and Christine are already achieved judokas themselves but do continue personal development and take teaching judo seriously and deep. They have their own son just learned to walk so they just have to!! :) Classes are full of fun but also every time kids learn something new (and some Japanese, and Moroccan language too!!). I am 100% satisfied with their progress and the confidence they developed with their bodies and close contact with another kid (especially my younger daughter!). As a former competitive judoka myself - i can tell that the games and the class strategy they use are designed to build the essential skill set for judo. We go to Mt. Airy location only. The only wishes I have are: start class half-hour earlier (currently 6-7), have larger and more consistent group (hit or miss - could be 10 or just a couple), and that WE COULD DO IT MORE (1-2 times a week for now). There is a small but all-inclusive gym upstairs you can use while watching your kids in the class. Adult classes I took I genuinely enjoyed. Great group of people - mixed genders and abilities, typically 2-4 black belts in the group of 10-ish players. Parking has never been a problem for us ant traffic js typically light there in the evenings. Easy to bike or use the train as well! Very happy and proud of my kids. Thanks guys!"

"My 7 year old daughter started Judo 2 years ago at the El idrissi Strength Dojo. My daughter is a small 7 yo and I was nervous she would get hurt. After a few classes I quickly realized Alaa and Kristen are incredibly vigilant instructors who are extremely protective of the students and who know alternative ways to teach individual students within the context of a larger class. Skill levels in the kids classes vary but no student is ever left behind or made to feel left out. The patience and attitude of the instructors is modeled by the students when they are training with each other. If you are thinking about Judo for your child do not hesitate to try this Dojo, one class and you will see what I have described in this review."

"A wonderful place to practice judo! The instructors are technical and friendly, having made my transition to the school a welcoming atmosphere. Come here if you want to see a huge improvement in your judo, want to learn self defense, or hoping to get in shape!"