Not at all! Most children join with zero judo experience. We specialise in: Teaching beginners Building confidence Developing coordination, discipline, and resilience No fitness or sporting background is required.

For younger children, we encourage parents to stay and watch. For older children, it’s optional. We believe parents are part of the Zenkai family.

We are not a “turn up and hope” club. Zenkai is built on: Structured coaching plans Athlete pathways Coach development Transparency Community Performance standards We are building something that lasts — not just running classes.

We use a monthly membership system through ClassForKids & Stripe. This gives: Simple payments No cash handling Clear attendance records Easy upgrades and changes Families can choose from Bronze, Silver, Gold, or Platinum plans depending on training level.

Gradings are run regularly and follow JudoScotland guidelines. Your child earns belts through: Attendance Effort Technical ability Behaviour Attitude We do not sell belts — they are earned.

Yes — but it’s always optional. We support: Beginners competitions Grand Prix circuit National events Team competitions We guide families when their child is ready — never forced.

For the first few sessions: T-shirt Tracksuit bottoms or shorts Flip-flops or sliders. Once they continue, they’ll need a judo suit (gi). We help families source these at club-discounted rates and wel also have spare gi's for you to borrow.

Yes!! At Zenkai: All coaches are qualified, insured, and PVG checked We teach falling and safety skills before throws Sessions are age-appropriate and well supervised Judo is statistically safer than football, rugby, or gymnastics when run properly.

Beyond sport, judo builds: Confidence Respect Discipline Fitness Coordination Mental toughness Emotional control Many parents tell us judo improves their child’s behaviour, focus, and self-belief.