Noob Adventure at JDI Judo (Selangor)

#judomalaysia #judo #mymartialhub #judoselangor #jdijudo #petalingjaya

Introduction

As a judo novice, I recently attended a one-day group training session at JDI Judo in Jaya One, Petaling Jaya (many food cafes after training!), Selangor. As a novice, I was eager to experience firsthand what this martial art entails.

What I enjoyed

Patient and knowledgeable instructors

Structured and beginner-friendly class format

Clean and minimalist

Air conditioning and fans

Considerations

JDI Judo: A Brief Overview

JDI Judo is led by the experienced Leo Chong (founder of JDI Judo), a 7-time national champion and double SEA Games medalist. Under his guidance, the academy offers a unique opportunity for adult learners to explore the art of Judo. Unlike many other Judo classes that primarily cater to children and competitive athletes, JDI Judo provides a welcoming environment for individuals of all ages and skill levels.

Judo competition in the 2017 Sea Games in Kuala Lumpur. Image source: Malaysiakini

Facilities and Equipment

• Cleanliness

One of the first aspects that stood out was the cleanliness of the gym. As a newly established facility, the mats were pristine and had a slight bounce, ensuring comfort and safety during training. The floor was spotless, which was reassuring as hygiene is a crucial factor in martial arts training. That alone made me feel comfortable stepping in for my first session.

• Ventilation

Located inside Jaya One Mall, the judo class benefits from air conditioning, making training sessions comfortable. However, prolonged inactivity in the cool air can feel a bit chilly. That said, after an intense workout, the refreshing air was a welcome relief.

JDI Judo gym layout

• How big is the space?

The gym’s elongated, rectangular space is quite spacious, allowing ample room for practicing straight rolls and movements without frequent interruptions. The minimalist design enhances focus on training, and while no visible weights or additional equipment were present, they might be stored discreetly.

• Amenities

Interestingly, the gym lacks dedicated on-site toilets. Instead, students utilize the mall’s restrooms, which, given the location on an upper floor, remain relatively clean due to lower foot traffic. At least it has a mobile fitting-room (the one like the shopping mall that is portable). While there are no onsite toilets, the quality of the training area makes up for it. The space is simple and clear, perfect for focusing.

Atmosphere and Culture

As a complete beginner, I was initially apprehensive about my first class. However, my fears quickly dissipated upon stepping into the gym. The atmosphere was welcoming, and Leo Chong’s friendly demeanor put everyone at ease. He emphasized that Judo is not just for children or elite athletes—adults can also have fun and learn at their own pace. JDI Judo class offers structured group training sessions that accommodate practitioners of all levels, ensuring accessibility for both beginners and experienced fighters. This inclusive approach fosters a positive and engaging training environment.

A Day in the Life of a Judo Beginner

My first class introduced me to the fundamentals of Judo. We began with a series of warm-up exercises, including front rolls, back rolls, and cartwheels, designed to prepare our bodies for the techniques ahead.

The core lesson focused on three key areas:

• Falling Techniques: Learning how to break a fall safely to prevent injuries.

• Throwing Techniques: Practicing a classic throw under instructor guidance.

• Ground Defense: Understanding how to recover and defend after being thrown.

At the end of the lesson, you get the chance to try the techniques learnt with Leo!

What stood out was the structured nature of the class. Since all participants were new to Judo, Leo systematically introduced the sport’s fundamental movements, ensuring everyone grasped the concepts before moving forward. The instructors broke down these complex skills into manageable steps, making them accessible to even the most inexperienced learners.

Communication:

Leo Chong's bilingual proficiency, fluent in both Bahasa Malaysia and English, facilitated clear communication throughout the session. While the class was predominantly conducted in English, he readily addressed questions and provided explanations in either language as needed. Eee.. I’m not so sure about the Chinese language tho. 

What I Loved About JDI Judo

One of the aspects that impressed me most about JDI Judo was the well-structured and engaging nature of the classes. The instructors were patient, knowledgeable, and supportive, creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere. I particularly appreciated the emphasis on safety and proper technique, which is essential for preventing injuries and maximizing learning.

Considering Judo?

If you're looking for a martial art that combines physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-defense, Judo is an excellent choice. Whether you're interested in competitive sport or simply want to improve your overall health and well-being, JDI Judo offers a welcoming and supportive environment for learners of all ages and abilities.

To experience Judo for yourself, consider signing up for a free trial class at JDI Judo in Petaling Jaya.

Disclaimer: The author is a martial arts enthusiast and enjoys learning from others. This review reflects my personal observations and experience at JDI Judo and do not necessarily represent the views of others. Your personal experience may vary and I highly recommend visiting the gym to experience it firsthand as it is the best way to determine if it meets your needs.