Sumo wrestling, Japan’s ancient and revered sport, is a fascinating discipline that involves much more than meets the eye. Sumo practice, or “keiko,” is a rigorous and highly structured process. Here are some of the secrets behind Sumo wrestling practice:
1. Stable Life:
Sumo wrestlers live and train in communal training stables known as “heya.” These stables are their homes, and they adhere to a strict and traditional way of life within them. Each stable is overseen by an experienced coach, or “oyakata,” who is usually a retired sumo wrestler.
2. Daily Routine:
Sumo wrestlers’ days start early, often around 5:00 AM, and they follow a disciplined routine. The morning begins with cleaning and preparing the stable, followed by rigorous training sessions.
3. Training Sessions:
- Shiko: The training day typically begins with “shiko” exercises, which involve lifting the legs high and stomping them back down to the ground, emphasizing balance and leg strength.
- Basic Exercises: Wrestlers practice basic exercises like pushing, shoving, and lifting to build strength and technique.
- Sparring: The main part of practice involves sparring sessions. These sessions help wrestlers improve their balance, power, and tactical skills.
4. Mawashi:
Wrestlers wear a “mawashi,” a traditional loincloth, during practice and competitions. The mawashi is an essential part of a sumo wrestler’s identity and represents the sport’s cultural heritage.
5. Weight Gain:
Sumo wrestlers are known for their large size, and gaining weight is a crucial part of the training process. They follow a high-calorie diet, consuming large amounts of chanko nabe, a protein-rich stew.
6. Scarcity of Women:
Sumo is a male-dominated sport, and women are generally not allowed in the training stables. This tradition is based on Shinto beliefs that consider women to be impure.
7. Promotion and Demotion:
Wrestlers are ranked in a hierarchical system, and their performance in official competitions determines their rankings. Wrestlers who perform well can move up in rank, while those who struggle may be demoted.
8. Injury Management:
Sumo wrestlers experience injuries, given the physical nature of the sport. They have access to stable physicians and undergo rehabilitation and treatment when necessary.
9. Matches and Tournaments:
Professional sumo wrestlers compete in six official tournaments or “basho” each year. These tournaments determine their rank and standing in the sport.
10. Respect for Tradition:
Sumo wrestling is deeply rooted in tradition, and wrestlers show respect for their sport’s customs and rituals. These traditions include salt purification rituals, ring-entering ceremonies, and specific forms of etiquette.
11. Retirement:
Retiring from sumo wrestling is a major life transition. Wrestlers who retire often become stablemasters, coaches, or television personalities.
Sumo wrestling practice is a testament to the sport’s unique culture, traditions, and the unwavering commitment of its practitioners. The life of a sumo wrestler is physically demanding, and the discipline and dedication required are what make sumo a revered and iconic part of Japanese culture.
