Sumo Sundays: Fundamentals [for queer and trans folks]

No experience necessary. All bodies welcome.

Join us for an afternoon of sumo training in this introductory/fundamentals-forward class for queer and trans participants! Our drop-in sessions aim to build confidence and safety around this popular Japanese sport. Every session incorporates stretches, techniques based on each participant's skill level and an opportunity to spar.

This session is good for:

• People trying sumo for the first time
• People with minimal experience in martial arts and/or other physical activities
• Casual and regular attendees of Sumo Sundays looking for a chilled experience focusing on basics and refreshers on safety rolls, techniques, use of equipment etc.

We encourage folks of all sizes and genders to participate. PWYC. Max. 14 people per session.

Instructors:

• Mielle (she/her) is an avid sumo fan who has been participating in Sumo Sundays since 2022. Her other martial arts experience includes sambo wrestling and judo. She is passionate about making martial arts spaces welcoming to everyone, and loves being a part of such an inclusive sumo community!
• Since 2022, Kayla (they/them) has co-organized countless sumo drop-ins, workshops and a handful of tournaments through Sumo Sundays, including the annual sumo exhibition at Powell Street Festival (PSF). A mixed fourth-generation Japanese Canadian, Kayla's introduction to sumo has always been through PSF. Kayla has continued to participate in sumo at PSF and in 2022, earned the big bag of rice, which they credit to previous workshops organized by the festival and impromptu training by Shane Pecknold in a local park. Through these experiences, Kayla’s goal is to make an inclusive and accessible space for sumo in Vancouver.

Learn more about Sumo Sundays at .

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Vancouver Japanese Language School and Japanese Hall, 487 Alexander Street, Vancouver, Canada

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