Sumo Sundays: Monthly drop-in (Season 1)

No experience necessary. All bodies welcome.

Join us for this monthly afternoon sumo training! 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.

Drop-in sessions are for anyone, regardless of age, size, gender or experience. We welcome all folks so long as they are comfortable participating in a close-contact, movement-based sport. While we are open to adapting movements when possible, sumo does require the ability to squat without falling over.

• Comfortable athletic clothing. Tight shorts (or biker shorts) are recommended. (Footwear and socks will be removed during the session.)
• A water bottle (and snacks if needed)

Masks are optional. We are abiding by provincial guidelines but we do encourage folks to test themselves before each session. If you are feeling unwell or showing symptoms of COVID-19, please refrain from attending.

All tickets are non-refundable but may be transferable to another session with notice before the start of your original ticket. At this time, we are a volunteer-run group using registration fees towards venue space.

We have scheduled dates from January to July 2023.

• January 15
• February 12
• March 12
• April 16
• May 14
• June 11
• July 9

At this time, we are not scheduled to train in August as the annual sumo tournament and exhibition takes place at Powell Street Festival during the BC Day weekend. Training dates for Fall 2023 TBA.

Sunday sumo sessions are organized by Shane, Lydia and Kayla. Each of us have been involved in the annual sumo exhibition at Powell Street Festival (PSF) in varying capacities. From participating in the tournament and assisting with coordination, we have come together to bring sumo to Greater Vancouver all year round, with our own spin.

We do this out of passion and learning with the help of books, videos, and instructions from teachers and wrestlers who have been gracious enough to share their experiences.

Sumo at Powell Street Festival

This work would not be possible without the legacy and tradition of sumo at PSF. Sumo has taken place at the festival for over 40 years and was originally organized by the Sumo Fun Club. This exhibition and tournament has always been built around community and fun with winners earning a bag of rice.

Special thanks to the Vancouver Japanese Language School and Powell Street Festival Society for their support.

Host or Publisher Sumo Sundays