Question 1

Does my child need experience to join?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

Do parents need to stay for sessions?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

What makes Zenkai different from other clubs?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

How do payments work?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

How do grading belts work?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

Do you enter competitions?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

What does my child need to start?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

Is judo safe?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

What will my child gain from judo?

Accepted Answer

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.