Under the Mats

This is not a mat-on-concrete setup. Beneath our mats is a floating foundation made from more than 1,400 individual foam blocks. Each block measures 4” x 4” x 2” and works as part of a larger system to distribute force evenly across the entire floor.

The result is a training surface that feels responsive and stable under footwork and pressure, while still cushioning high-impact movements like takedowns, throws, and scrambles.

We followed the Denver Floating Dojo Guide and approached the build with the same mindset we bring to training: precision, consistency, and durability.

First, we created a paper template matching the foam layout for a single 4’ x 8’ panel. This allowed us to keep spacing perfectly consistent across every sheet, maintain even load distribution, and move quickly without guesswork.

Using that template, we glued foam blocks directly onto each OSB panel one sheet at a time using Liquid Nails. Each panel received 27 blocks and was allowed to fully cure before moving. By attaching the foam to the plywood first, every panel became a self-contained unit, preventing shifting during installation and keeping the process clean and controlled.

Once cured, the panels were installed onto the concrete floor one by one. We added spacers between panels to allow for expansion and avoid direct contact, which also helps reduce noise during training.

To unify the system, we installed an additional top layer to lock all panels together into one continuous surface. Instead of individual sheets moving independently, the entire floor functions as a single floating platform, improving stability and creating a more consistent feel across the mat space.

Before any mats went down, we stress-tested the subfloor to confirm both shock absorption and firmness.