Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 19:00 -21:00
Venue: Dance Hall
Workshop fee: 10€
Workshops
Workshop Director:
Olympia Agalianou
Description
The unity of music, speech, and movement is the content and meaning of the arts of music and ‘orchesis’ in the ancient Greek civilization, and is also common phenomenon in the musical and dance traditions of the peoples. Orff-Schulwerk, inspired by ancient Greek concepts, draws significantly from various cultural traditions, making it a widely used method in music and dance pedagogy. During teaching, orality and teamwork are utilized with the aim of enhancing both group and individual expressiveness and creativity of individuals of all ages. During the seminar, we will utilize music and dance traditions from Greece and other countries as educational means, following the principles and techniques of Orff-Schulwerk. Special emphasis will be placed on analyzing the proposed material as a starting point for creation and expression. The approach of this seminar is also inspired by the community dance and community music movements, which closely communicate and interact with the international Orff-Schulwerk community.The teaching scaffolding seeks to engage each participant regardless of skill level or pre-existing experience in dance and music. The purpose of the seminar is to propose a way in which Orff-Schulwerk can facilitate dance and music in the community as community dance and community music in both formal and non-formal educational contexts
Workshop Instructor:
Olympia Agalianou
Olympia Agalianou holds a PhD in pedagogy and a degree in P.E. and Sport Science (N.K.U.A.). Music studies (harmony degree). Two-year course in Orff-Schulwerk, three years course in dance therapy and four-year studies in systemic counselling. Writer of a monography, chapters in collective books articles in scientific journals and conference proceedings and school text books. Since 1995 he has been working as an educator in lifelong education in Greece and abroad. She taught for 20 years in primary education. Today, serves as Special Educational Staff in the Department of Early Childhood Education at N.K.U.A., teaches at master’s degree postgraduate programs at N.K.U.A., University of Macedonia, Democritus University of Thrace.
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 19:00 – 21:00
Venue: Small Amphitheater
Workshop fee: free
Workshop Director:
Yiannis Theodorakis, University of Thessaly
Evangelos Bebetsos, Democritus University of Thrace
Description:
Large-scale, evidence-based studies endorsed by the World Health Organization (2024) indicate that individuals with insufficient physical activity face a 20%–30% increased risk of premature mortality compared to those who engage in adequate levels of exercise. Moreover, regular physical activity reduces the risk of several forms of cancer by 8%–28%, cardiovascular disease and stroke by 19%, diabetes by 17%, and depression and dementia by 28%–32%. In terms of healthcare expenditure, dementia accounts for 22% of total costs, cancer for 15%, and diabetes for 9%, according to Santos et al. (2023). The first part of the seminar focuses on exercise interventions for individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, within the framework of a specific European Erasmus+ program. The primary objective is to maintain or improve cognitive, behavioral, and physical functioning, as well as to enhance quality of life, through the implementation of evidence-based guidelines. The second part addresses specialized exercise guidelines and psychological support strategies for a broad range of clinical populations, including individuals with depression, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, schizophrenia, pulmonary diseases, and substance use disorders. Particular emphasis is placed on the individualization of exercise programs, the enhancement of motivation, realistic goal-setting, family support, and the integration of psychological techniques. Walking is highlighted, based on extensive studies, analyses, and clinical guidelines, as one of the safest and most functional forms of exercise.
Erasmus + (2026). Promoting the Effects of Physical Exercise (PE) on Cognitive, Behavioral, Physical, and Functional Symptoms of Individuals Diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), or Other Dementias.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
Speakers:
Yiannis Theodorakis, University of Thessaly
Evangelos Bebetsos, Democritus University of Thrace
Yannis Theodorakis is a professor of Sport Psychology in the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science at the University of Thessaly, Greece. He has published more than 34 books and chapters, and more than 270 articles in the areas of physical education, sport and exercise psychology, health psychology, Olympic education, health education, goals setting, self-talk, and attitude and behaviour relationships. He has been involved in several projects related to physical activity promotion, health education, exercise and smoking, exercise program in patients with dementia by using virtual reality, the role of sports in addiction recovery, and equality in society through sports.
Date: 15/05/2026
Time: 11:00
Venue: to be announced
Workshop fee: 20€
Workshop Director:
Konstantinos Imanimidis,Chief of the Hellenic Red Cross – Komotini Regional Branch Team
Description
The training program was established in 2008 and aims to increase the number of trained citizens in the following areas:
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation “CPR” (Adult – Child – Infant)
Automated External Defibrillator “AED” (Adult – Child – Infant)
Airway Obstruction “Choking” – HEIMLICH MANEUVER (Adult – Child – Infant)
Recovery Position (Adult – Child – Infant)
First Aid Kit
Assessment
It is delivered by certified instructors of the Samaritans, Rescuers, and Lifeguards Division of the Hellenic Red Cross, specialized as “FIRST AID and CPR/AED INSTRUCTORS.” The curriculum is adapted, harmonized, and aligned with the latest guidelines of the European Resuscitation Council (ERC). Both theoretical and practical training are provided in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator, using specialized manikins and training defibrillators.
Applicable for the General Secretariat of Sports and the “Neighborhood Nannies” initiative.
Duration: 6 hours (1 day)
Participation fee: twenty euros (€20)
15/5 11:00 – 17:00 First Aid Training Seminar – Certification (50 participants)
16/5 11:00 – 17:00 First Aid Training Seminar – Certification (50 participants)
17/5 11:00 – 17:00 First Aid Training Seminar – Certification (50 participants)
Instructors:
Hellenic Red Cross – Komotini Regional Branch Team
The Komotini Regional Branch of the Hellenic Red Cross is an active humanitarian unit serving the Regional Unit of Rodopi, promoting the fundamental principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. With a people-centered approach, the branch develops social welfare and humanitarian initiatives, supporting vulnerable individuals and families facing social and economic challenges. Special emphasis is placed on public education and preparedness through certified First Aid training programs, including Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AED), delivered by qualified instructors from the Samaritans, Rescuers, and Lifeguards Division. In addition, trained volunteers participate in first aid coverage of public events, prevention campaigns, and emergency response activities within the local community. The Komotini Regional Branch serves as an important hub for volunteerism, encouraging citizens of all ages to actively participate in humanitarian actions and community service. Through its continuous presence and commitment, the branch contributes significantly to strengthening social cohesion, promoting public safety, and fostering a culture of solidarity and humanitarian values in the wider Komotini area.
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 12:00 | 15:00 | 17:30
Venue: Hall 6
Workshop fee: free
No. of Participants: 50 per session
The Workshop will take part in 3 sessions. Choose the one that best fits your schedule.
Workshop Director:
Stella Georgiadou, Administrative Staff Member at Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH), Career and Vocational Guidance Counselor
Description:
Assertiveness is one of the key skills for managing both personal life and professional development. It refers to an individual’s ability to express their needs and opinions clearly and honestly while setting boundaries with respect for others, avoiding both passivity and aggression. The goal of this seminar is to introduce the concept of assertive behavior and help participants identify the factors that prevent them from applying it in their daily lives. Additionally, the seminar will explore the potential consequences of lacking assertiveness, both personally and professionally. Through discussion and practical examples, participants will understand the importance of cultivating assertive behavior so that they can communicate with confidence, establish healthy boundaries, and manage conflicts effectively in both their personal and professional lives.
Instructor:
Stella Georgiadou, Administrative Staff Member at Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH), Career and Vocational Guidance Counselor
Stella Georgiadou is a graduate of the Department of Psychology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), holder of postgraduate degrees in “Studies in Education” from the Hellenic Open University (HOU) and “Career Guidance and Counseling” from the European University Cyprus. Certified Career Guidance and Vocational Counseling Advisor by EOPPEP (National Organization for the Certification of Qualifications and Vocational Guidance). I worked for 18 years as an Employment Counselor at OAED (Public Employment Service), and I am currently appointed at the Office of Career Counseling and Skills Development of Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH).
Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: 10:00
Venue: Dance Hall
Workshop fee: 20€
Number of Participants: Unlimited for attendance; for practical participation, a limit of 30 people in two groups of 15
Workshop Director:
Olga Kouli, Associate Professor, DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace
Seminar Instructor:
Venetia Laskaridi, Graduate of the undergraduate and postgraduate programs of DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace, owner of the dance schools Let’s Dance and Let’s Move and Play, based in Komotini, Aerobic and Step instructor
Description:
Discover the exciting world of AeroJump in a comprehensive seminar that combines theory and practice! In this seminar, participants will learn about the benefits of exercising with Kangoo boots, the correct technique, and injury prevention methods, while enjoying a dynamic workout full of energy and music. Whether they are beginners or experienced, this seminar will introduce them to a new way to improve their fitness and have fun in a unique way!
AeroJump is a high-intensity aerobic workout performed with specially designed rebound boots, known as Kangoo Boots. These boots absorb shock, reducing stress on the joints, while also providing fun, muscle strengthening, and calorie burning.
AeroJump is suitable for everyone and is used in group fitness programs, endurance training, and injury rehabilitation. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to work out effectively, enjoyably, and safely!
SECTION Ι: Theoretical Approach
Introduction to kangoo boots
- What is AeroJump?
• History and evolution of this kind of exercise
• Why to choose it?
Benefits & Scientific Data
- Benefits for cardiovascular endurance
• Muscle strengthening & impact on joints
• Comparison with other high-intensity sports
• Psychological benefits & fun
Equipment & Safety
- Introduction to AeroJump
• Choosing the right size
• Equipment maintenance
• Safety measures and injury prevention
Technique & Basic Movements
- Proper body posture
• Balance and movement control
• Basic adaptation exercises
Break
SECTION II: Practical Approach
Warm-up
- Joint and muscle activation
• Basic balance exercises
Basic Movements & Choreography
- Beginner step patterns
• Simple and complex movements
• Rhythmic training with music
• Creation of a short choreography
Dynamic Workout Program
- Cardio & strengthening with Kangoo boots
• Combined movements for maximum calorie burn
• Fun workout session
Cool-down & Stretching
- Muscle recovery
• Relaxation and breathing exercises
Seminar Closing
- Seminar recap
• Q&A session
• Brief discussion & participant feedback
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026 & Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: 11:00 | 13:15 (Sat) & 11:00 (Sun)
Venue: Aerobic Hall
Workshop fee: 20€
Number of participants: 25
Special requirements: Towel (Mandatory), Water (Mandatory), Cycling tights (optional), Cycling shoes with SPD (optional) or simple everyday casual shoes with a hard sole (not running), heart rate monitor (optional) for participation in the practical part.
Description:
Indoor Cycling is a structured form of moderate- to high-intensity cardiorespiratory exercise performed on stationary cycling ergometers within a purpose-designed studio environment. Sessions are conducted with synchronized musical accompaniment and are led by a certified Physical Education professional, ensuring appropriate technical instruction, workload regulation, and participant safety. It constitutes one of the most widely implemented group exercise modalities in contemporary fitness facilities, as it is adaptable to a broad spectrum of populations, including trained athletes, recreationally active individuals, previously sedentary participants, and older adults. Intensity can be systematically modified according to individual fitness levels and training objectives and monitored through technology. The seminar integrates theoretical framework with applied practice and is intended for professionals and practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of group-based cardiorespiratory training utilizing music-driven interval methodology on indoor cycling ergometers. It provides foundational and applied knowledge regarding proper biomechanical technique, exercise prescription principles, session structure, intensity monitoring, and the development of comprehensive, safe, and evidence-informed indoor cycling programs within a fitness setting. Participants will also engage in a supervised practical session, experiencing a structured, high-energy training protocol that demonstrates the application of scientific principles in a dynamic group exercise environment.
Workshop Instructor:
Konstantinos Deligeorgis, Certified Spinning® Instructor (MDA)
Mountain biking and road cycling athlete from a young age, and an international ultramarathon distance winner abroad. He is a professional **Spinning® Instructor** (Johnny G., Mad Dogg Athletics) in Europe and the UAE, holding multiple specializations, including training for children, pregnant women, athletes, and special populations. He has completed multiple 6-hour and 12-hour events and he is the only Greek Spinning Instructor to have completed an official 24-hour Spinning® marathon event. Additional certifications include: Personal Trainer; Elite Exercise Specialist; Sport Performance School; SUSPENSION TRAINING COURSE; Sport Integrity Australia; and ASADA Anti-Doping Level 2 Anti-Doping Course & Clean Sport 101. He participated as an athletic collaborator in the 2008 scientific study titled: “Contribution of Respiratory Muscle Blood Flow to Exercise-induced Diaphragmatic Fatigue in Trained cyclists.”, 2008. He has attended medical and scientific conferences in Cardiology, Diabetes Mellitus, and Orthopedics. Since 2012, he has been organizing cycling ultramarathon events in Greece and Cyprus.
Buy your ticket (Saturday 05/16/2026, 11:00)
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 12:00 – 13:30
Venue: “Karypidis” University Gym
Workshop fee: 15€
Seminar Director:
Ourania Matsouka, Professor at the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science (DPESS), School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy (SEFAAE), Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH)
Description:
This workshop presents cheerleading as a contemporary, multidimensional, and inclusive sport, emphasizing adaptability to different body types and abilities, promoting long-term engagement in physical activity.
Key points of the workshop:
Theoretical component:
• History and regulatory framework of cheerleading
• Rules of the International Cheer Union (ICU)
• Kinesiological and biomechanical characteristics
• Progressive teaching methods, training structure, and safety measures
Practical component:
• Experiential learning of Performance Cheer (pom, jazz, hip hop, high kicks) and Cheerleading (stunts, pyramids)
• Exercise adaptation according to age and motor skills
• Emphasis on inclusion, safety, and positive exercise experience
• Development of coordination, balance, flexibility, and teamwork through practical activities and short choreographies
• Athletic clothing and shoes are required to participate in the workshop.
Objective: Participants will acquire tools to apply or teach cheerleading in a creative, encouraging, and inclusive way, enhancing active participation and self-confidence. The program aims to stimulate research and educational application of cheerleading in Greece and internationally.
Instructor:
Konstantina Markou, Physical Education Teacher (MSc in Sport Tourism, Event Organization and Dance), Specialized Cheerleading and Artistic Swimming Coach
Konstantina Markou ia a graduate of the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science (TEFAA), University of Athens, with a specialization in traditional dance and artistic swimming. Certified cheerleading coach with experience in designing and implementing exercise programs for all ages.
Date: Saturday, 16/05/2026
Time: 14:00 – 16:30
Venue: University Swimming Pool
Workshop fee: 25 euros
Number of participants: 40 participants
Special requirements: Pool equipment (swimsuit, swim cap, flip flops, bathrobe or towel)
Seminar Director:
Vassilios Gourgoulis, Ph.D. , Vice Rector for Administrative Affairs, Democritus University of Thrace
Professor, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science (DPESS), School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy, Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH)
Description:
How can a swimming lesson for preschool children be transformed into an experience of creativity, play, and exploration?
The Aqua Creativity Play seminar presents an innovative pedagogical approach to swimming for children aged 3–5, who are at the transitional stage from baby swimming to participation in structured swimming lessons in the pool. The program combines physical education, motor creativity, and play in the aquatic environment, creating a learning setting that enhances children’s self-confidence, imagination, and motor development.
The seminar is addressed to students and graduates of Physical Education, swimming coaches, baby and toddler swimming instructors, as well as professionals who work with children in aquatic environments, such as swimming pools, sports clubs, summer camps, and hotel facilities. During the seminar, practical ideas and experiential activities for designing creative toddler swimming lessons will be presented, encouraging children to explore the water with safety, joy, and creative expression. Participants will become familiar with a comprehensive lesson planning model based on the principles of motor creativity, child-centered education, and experiential learning, which can be directly applied to the teaching of preschool swimming. The seminar aims to serve as a source of inspiration for modern and creative teaching practices in aquatic environments, highlighting water as a space for learning, play, and creativity.
Instructor:
Aikaterini Dimakopoulou, P.E. Teacher, Doctoral Candidate, Department of Sports Organization and Management, School of Human Movement and Quality of Life Sciences, University of the Peloponnese, MSc Pedagogy & Creative Learning, MSc Maximizing Performance in Swimming, Mermaiding Master Trainer
Date: Sunday, May 17, 2026
Time: 09:30
Venue: “Karypidis” University Gym
Workshop fee: free
Seminar Director:
Erasmia Giannakou, DPESS, Democritus University of Thrace
Description:
The seminar deals with the analysis of the psychosomatic connection and the presentation of scientific data about the necessity for a holistic approach to exercise. The terms “body and mind connection”, “body awareness”, “interoception”, “conscious movement” etc. will be interpreted theoretically as well as experientially (through exercises and techniques). The aim of the seminar is for the participants to gain as much as possible resources for the integrated approach of a trainee regardless of the type of training they follow, which will make them more efficient and therefore competitive in the labor market. The seminar will be held indoors and will include 2 hours of theory and 1 hour of practice.
Instructor:
Chrysanthi Syresioti, MSc
Mrs Chrysanthi Syresioti is UOA/DPESS Graduate and holder of a master’s degree from the DUTH/DPESS, with a specialization in “Prevention–Intervention–Rehabilitation”. Since 2006, she has been active in the field of fitness, working both in research and in practice, teaching movement to adults and children through group and individual sessions. She has collaborated with gyms, studios, rehabilitation centers, sports clubs, dance schools etc. Through continuous professional development (conferences, workshops, and trainings such as Clinical Pilates, spinal rehabilitation, Pilates, Yoga, Prenatal Pilates, positive psychology, etc.) as well as personal study, she has developed a holistic approach to her clients, based on the inseparable connection between mind and body. This approach aims to retrain movement and posture patterns, enhance body awareness, and improve or maintain health and physical fitness, with a strong emphasis on prevention.
Get your ticket here.
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 09:00
Venue: Laboratory of Clinical Exercise Physiology
Workshop fee: 30 euros
16th Thematic Seminar of the Postgraduate Program: “Clinical Exercise and Applications of Technology in Health”
Department of Physical Education and Sport Science of the School of Physical Education and Sport Science and Occupational Therapy of Democritus University of Thrace in collaboration with the National Center for Science Research “DEMOKRITOS” – The Institute of Informatics and Telecommunications (IIT)
Association for the Support and Rehabilitation of Heart Disease and Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease of Rodopi
Workshop Coordinator:
Konstantinos Volaklis, Associate Professor, D.P.E.S.S., Democritus University of Thrace, Lecturer, Ergoline Academy, Germany
Workshop Directors:
Savvas Tokmakidis, Emeritus Professor of Exercise Physiology,. D.P.E.S.S. – Democritus University of Thrace
Maria Marketou, Associate Professor of Cardiology, Medical School, University of Crete
Description
The purpose of the seminar is to present the structure and the contents of a cardiac rehabilitation program as it is applies based on current scientific guidelines. Issues such as cardiovascular risk stratification, the pharmacological treatment and the assessment of the lipid profile (with an emphasis on reducing LDL-C) will be mentioned. Additionally, there will be a demonstration of cardiopulmonary exercise testing with interpretation of the main results and exercise prescription guidance. The dietary recommendations and the nutritional monitoring procedure of cardiac patients will be also presented. In the practical part, continuous and interval exercise protocols will be applied using the ers.2 ECG monitoring software which is developed for the assessment of ischemia and arrhythmias of cardiac patients.
Theory
09:00 – 09:30
Definition and contents of cardiac rehabilitation
Konstantinos Volaklis, Associate Professor, Exercise in Cardiometabolic Disease, D.P.E.S.S. –
Democritus University of Thrace
09:30 – 10:00
Medication used in cardiac rehabilitation und interactions with exercise
Maria Marketou, Associate Professor of Cardiology, Medical School, University of Crete
10:00 – 10:30
Dietary guidance and support of cardiac patients
Eleni Pavlidou, Ph.D, Clinical Dietitian, Post-doc Researcher, Aegean University
Practical Section
10:30 – 11:30
Cardiopulmonary exercise testing and exercise prescription
Maria Marketou, Associate Professor of Cardiology, Medical School, University of Crete
Ilias Smilios, Professor of Exercise Physiology, D.P.E.S.S., Democritus University of Thrace
11:30 – 12:30
ECG-monitoring during continuous moderate and high intensity interval exercise
Konstantinos Volaklis, Associate Professor, Exercise in Cardiometabolic Disease, D.P.E.S.S. – Democritus University of Thrace
Apostolos Spassis, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Specialized Teaching Staff, D.P.E.S.S., Democritus University of Thrace
12:30 – 13:00
Summary and Discussion
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 16:00 – 17:30
Venue: University Gym “Karypidis”
Workshop fee: free
Workshop Coordinator:
Evangelos Albanidis, Professor DPESS-DUTH, Dean of SPESS-DUTH
Description:
The seminar aims to provide knowledge through experiential learning regarding the pedagogical value of traditional motor games from Cyprus and Pontus. Approximately 500 traditional games from Cyprus and 300 games from Pontus were collected through field research involving the recording of traditional games and literature review covering the period 1874–2025. These games can be categorized as follows: theatrical, motor, music-motor, board games, social/feasting games, and object-based games. This seminar will focus exclusively on the category of motor games.
We will explore representative motor games from Cyprus and Pontus and their exploitation in teaching and practicing motor skills. At the same time, we will examine how selected games can contribute to the development of social skills and virtues. A proposed categorization of traditional motor games is:
1. Manipulative skills
2. Balance skills
3. Locomotor skills
4. Combined skills
5. Dance-based games
The fundamental principles guiding this effort are:
1. Supporting educators and trainers in their efforts to improve motor skills and social virtues by utilizing traditional motor games in schools, camps, parishes, and other organized groups.
2. Promoting coexistence, communication, and mutual support among different generations.
3. Ensuring equal participation for all, regardless of age, motor and/or cognitive abilities, or emotional condition. It is important to emphasize that educators are encouraged to make adaptations to traditional games based on participants’ characteristics (e.g., age, individuals with motor difficulties).
Instructors:
Vasilis Asvestas
Asvestas Vasilis born in 1971 in Nuremberg, Germany, is a graduate of the Technologigal Educational Institute of Thessaloniki Department of Physiotherapy.
Raised in a family with deep Asia Minor roots, he spent decades researching and promoting the folk traditions dances and music of the Greeks of the East. Especially the Pontic people.
He has published articles, lectured internationally, and in 2021 released his first book, The Games of the Greeks of the Eastern Sea and the Kars Gonemorate (1880-1923).
Vasilis organizes an annual dance seminar in Veria and is the administrator of the folklore Society “Ilioidia”.
A member of the first committee for Pontian dances with the Pan-Pontian Federation of Greece, he has taught traditional dance for over 35 years and appeared on several TV programs focused on Greek culture.
Spyros Augoustis
Spyros Augoustis originates from Chios. He initially studied as a mechanical engineering technologist but was ultimately drawn to primary education (graduate of the Marasleio Pedagogical Academy). He served as a primary school teacher from 1986 to 2018 in public schools in Athens. In collaboration with Parents’ Associations, he implemented numerous educational and cultural events focusing on intergenerational learning and recreation. In recent years, he has been an advisor for educational programs at the Hellenic Olympic Academy. Together with Olympic medalists and distinguished athletes—collaborators of the Hellenic Olympic Academy—he travels throughout Greece implementing sports activities and experiential workshops aimed at promoting Olympic Education.
Lucas Constandinou
Lucas Constandinou was born in the village of Nea Sparta in Famagusta. He has been an educator since 1992, initially in Primary Education and for the past eight years in Secondary Education in Cyprus. He is a graduate of the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science (Thessaloniki), the Pedagogical Academy of Cyprus, the Didaskaleio of Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, and holds a Master’s degree in “Creative and Adapted Physical Education” from the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science in Komotini. His research interests include traditional games, the history of Physical Education, sports children’s literature, and the teaching of Physical Education. He has authored books related to the history of Physical Education and recently published a book titled “Traditional Motor Games of Cyprus.”
Date: Saturday, 05/16/2026
Time: 11: 00 – 14:00
Venue: Dance Hall
Workshop fee: free
Workshop Coordinator:
Christos Ormanlidis, (MSc), DPESS-DUTH
Description:
The seminar “Contemporary Approaches in Taekwondo: Coaching, Performance Analysis, Poomsae and Mentoring” aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the key dimensions of modern Taekwondo, integrating scientific knowledge, coaching practice, and high-level athletic experience. Through a structured and multidimensional approach, participants will explore the principles of modern coaching, gain insight into performance analysis and the demands of contemporary competition, become familiar with the technical aspects and teaching methodology of poomsae. Special emphasis is placed on the role of mentoring and experiential learning in athlete development, highlighting the importance of transferring knowledge and values from elite sport into coaching practice. The seminar combines theoretical background with practical applications, offering a holistic and up-to-date perspective of Taekwondo as both an Olympic sport and an educational tool.
Instructors:
Michalis Mouroutsos, Olympic Gold Medalist in Taekwondo
Michalis Mouroutsos is an Olympic gold medalist from the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games in the 58 kg category. He was European Champion in 2000 in the men’s division. He won the silver medal at the 1999 European Championships in the Olympic categories. He won the bronze medal at the 1997 European Junior Championships in Patras. He also won the bronze medal at the World University Games in Izmir in 2005. He won the bronze medal at the World Military Championships in Korea in 2006. He is a two-time Balkan Champion in 1997 and 1998. He achieved fifth place four times at the World Championships in 1997 in Hong Kong, in 2001 in Korea, in 2003 in Garmisch, Germany, and in 2005 in Madrid, Spain. He serves as a Commander in the Hellenic Navy, is head of AS Dafni, and serves as Secretary General of the Hellenic Taekwondo Federation.
Konstantinos Beis (PhD, MSc), Special Teaching Staff, School of Physical Education and Sport Science, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Dr. Konstantinos Beis teaches at the School of Physical Education and Sport Science of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki the courses “Taekwondo Elective” since 1991, “Taekwondo Specialization WTF” since 1994, and “Taekwondo Specialization ITF” since 2018. He taught theory and practice in thirteen Taekwondo coaching schools of the Hellenic and European Federation from 1996 to 2011. He has held a PhD from the School of Physical Education and Sport Science of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki since 2001. In 1996 he obtained a Master’s degree in Coaching from the School of Physical Education and Sport Science of the Democritus University of Thrace. He also studied for two years at the Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Sport Institute in Frankfurt, specializing in Sports Medicine. He has authored and edited three books on Taekwondo and has written lecture notes for the students of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. He has also authored dozens of scientific papers presented at international conferences and journals and has attended more than sixty scientific conferences, symposia, and seminars. He served as National Team Coach for all national teams of the Hellenic Taekwondo Federation from 1991 to 2000 and from 2005 to 2010 and participated as a coach and scientific associate in the preparation of the Greek Olympic team for the Olympic Games in Barcelona 1992, Sydney 2000, and Beijing 2008. He was a Greek Taekwondo champion and competed as a member of the men’s national team at the European Championships where he achieved fifth place and at the World Championships in 1982 and 1983.
Daniilidis Panagiotis, PhD in Taekwondo Coaching , MSc in Kinesiology
Panagiotis Daniilidis is a Physical Education Professor specializing in Taekwondo, seconded to the Department of Physical Education and Sport Science (DPESS) in Serres at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. He is an eleven-time Greek Champion (3 gold, 4 silver, and 4 bronze medals) and a bronze medalist at the 1991 Mediterranean Games, with significant international distinctions. Since 1993, he has been coaching at the Proteas Serres Athletic Club and has served as a coach for National Teams, guiding athletes to international success. He holds a Master’s degree in Kinesiology and a PhD in Taekwondo Coaching. His research interests focus on training methodology, performance optimization, and the kinesiological analysis of combat sports.
Ioannidis Panagiotis, Grandmaster 9 Dan
Panagiotis Ioannidis is a 9th Dan Taekwondo master, DAN Examiner and POOMSAE Seminar Manager, as well as a former National POOMSAE Team Coach.
Date: Friday 05/15/26
Time: 17:30
Venue: Hall 6
Workshop fee: 30€
Description:
An interactive wine tasting seminar for those who want to explore the world of wine in a simple, enjoyable, and approachable way with no prior experience required. Through a relaxed and hands-on experience, you will take your first steps in wine tasting, learning the basic “trilogy” of tasting (appearance, aroma, taste) and gaining confidence in how to taste and choose wine. Together, we will travel to Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, discovering local grape varieties, the history of the region, and the unique stories behind each wine, connecting wine with its place and people. At the same time, you will receive practical tips on how to choose the right wine for you, proper serving temperatures, and simple guidelines for enjoying wine, whether at a friendly gathering or in a restaurant. Forget the rules and the stereotypes. Wine is not just for experts, it is for everyone. Join us and discover it together, one glass at a time!
Instructor:
Sissy Tzelepidou, Certified Sommelier (WSET Level 3 Award in Wines)
Sissy Tzelepidou is a certified Sommelier (WSET Level 3 Award in Wines) with extensive experience in leadership roles in the corporate world. Combining her deep understanding of wine with her professional background, she designs wine tasting experiences that bring together learning, enjoyment, and human connection. With a core belief that wine should be accessible and approachable to everyone, she presents wine in a simple, everyday language, helping people feel comfortable and discover their own personal relationship with it. Her goal is to bridge the gap between expertise and authentic enjoyment, turning every glass of wine into an experience connected with moments, people, and stories.
Date: Sunday 05/17/26
Time: 10:00
Venue: Aerobic Hall
Workshop fee: 20€
Postgraduate Program: "Clinical Exercise and Applications of Technology in Health" Department of Physical Education and Sport Science of the School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy of Democritus University of Thrace in collaboration with the National Center for Science Research "DEMOKRITOS" – The Institute of Informatics and Telecommunications (IIT)
Director:
Helen Douda, Professor D.P.E.S.S. – D.U.Th.
Coordinator:
Styliani Karakiriou, Specialized Teaching Staff D.P.E.S.S. – D.U.Th.
Description:
Bariatric and metabolic surgery is one of the most effective interventions for the treatment of morbid obesity and its associated metabolic disorders. However, its long-term success largely depends on the adoption of a comprehensive therapeutic approach that includes psychological support for individuals with obesity, as well as the implementation of sustainable lifestyle changes. Within this framework, physical exercise plays a pivotal role in both preoperative preparation and postoperative recovery. This seminar will present strategies for psychological support, along with key principles for designing safe and effective exercise programs before and after bariatric surgery for the management of morbid obesity.
Instructors:
Marianna Tsatali, Clinical Psychologist specializing in Bariatric Care, Scientific Collaborator of the Morbid Obesity & Metabolic Diseases Surgery Clinic, Inter-Balkan Medical Center of Thessaloniki
Psychological Support Before and After Bariatric Surgery
Vasileios Xyrafopoulos, MSc, Physical Education Teacher, Exercise and Health Specialist, Scientific Collaborator of the Morbid Obesity & Metabolic Diseases Surgery Clinic, Inter-Balkan Medical Center of Thessaloniki
Design of safe exercise programs before and after bariatric surgery
