The athlete lounge at Marine Messe Fukuoka, the main venue of the Championships, has become a vibrant hub of Japanese tradition and culture during the World Aquatics Championships.
As international athletes gather in Fukuoka, they have the unique opportunity to relax, immerse themselves in local customs, and take part in cultural experience programmes that go beyond competitive sports. One of the highlights of the event was the visit of active sumo wrestlers. They showcased their unique routines and exercises, which enhance flexibility and core strength. Their impressive demonstrations left a lasting impression on the participants, who were inspired by the dedication and physical prowess of the sumo wrestlers.
Two days after completing their intense 15-day series of matches in Nagoya, the sumo wrestlers embarked on a special trip to Fukuoka, where they became an integral part of the vibrant cultural exchange at the athlete lounge.
As soon as they arrived, the athlete lounge reverberated with heavy sounds as the sumo wrestlers engaged in a captivating display of the "Shiko," a fundamental and crucial exercise deeply ingrained in their discipline. Interestingly, some of the Japanese swimmers also found inspiration in this unique workout routine, incorporating it into their dryland training.
The "Shiko" involves slowly raising one leg up, maintaining it at the highest point for a second, then gracefully lowering it while performing a squat. This demanding exercise enables Sumo wrestlers to attain exceptional body balance and flexibility, crucial attributes for their rigorous sport. Admirably, they dedicate themselves to performing hundreds of Shiko exercises in succession every single day, a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft.
Peruvian swimmer Joaquin Vargas shared his experience of trying to move the sumo wrestlers, saying, "When I tried, it was honestly impossible to move them. When you push hard, it's like rock hard, like a wall. I felt like I was trying to move a building." Despite the challenge, Vargas and his fellow athletes relished the opportunity to engage in Japanese traditional sports, and he expressed his happiness at experiencing something beyond swimming that deepened his understanding of the country's culture.
Gabriel Martinez, a swimmer from Honduras, found valuable tips from observing the sumo wrestlers' routine workouts, remarking, "It is really interesting because they reveal how to train, a lot of bodyweight and something like that. So it's very interesting to try. It’s my first time seeing a person who does Sumo."
The athletes also had the chance to witness the tying of the Chon-Mage, the distinct topknot hairstyle worn by sumo wrestlers, to the large ginkgo known as 'Oicho.' This hairstyle is a privilege reserved for ‘Sekitori’ wrestlers ranked Juryo or above and symbolizes both their status and serves as a protective cushion during matches. To achieve the iconic 'Oicho' style, a considerable length of hair, typically around 40 to 45 centimetres, is required. As a result, growing their hair to such lengths is a time-consuming endeavour that demands dedication and patience. Additionally, the intricate task of styling their hair is solely entrusted to their own hairstylist, known as the 'Tokoyama.' This specialized individual meticulously cares for the sumo wrestlers' hair, ensuring that the Chon-Mage remains a distinguished hallmark of their profession.
According to the Japan Sumo Association, sumo boasts a history spanning over 1500 years, deeply rooted in the primal instinct of humans to compete and showcase their power and strength. Approximately 400 years ago, during the Edo period, professional sumo wrestlers emerged, and the sport gained popularity as a form of entertainment throughout Japan. Over the nearly 300-year Edo period, Sumo competitions became more regular and organised, solidifying its place as an integral part of Japanese culture.
Throughout its long history, sumo has retained its authenticity and grandeur, preserving the traditions that have captured the hearts of audiences for centuries. The cultural exchange at Fukuoka's Athlete Lounge, where athletes and spectators experienced the essence of Sumo, highlights the sport's significance beyond mere competition.
Kotonowaka, ranked as ‘Komusubi,’ one of the highest ranks in the Sumo world, shared their thoughts after the demonstration, stating, "I believe they were able to understand the essence of a sumo wrestler. Merely observing doesn't truly capture the depth of this sport. Therefore, engaging in actual sumo wrestling provided a valuable opportunity for comprehension." The sumo wrestlers also astounded by the sheer size of water polo players, further exemplifying the powerful impact of cultural exchange during international events.
As the Championships continue to unfold, the spirit of cultural exchange remains a significant aspect of the event, transcending the boundaries of sports and uniting athletes from different parts of the world. Sumo, a national sport and sacred tradition of Japan, with its more than 1500 years of history, continues to captivate audiences, showcasing the timeless spectacle that has been cherished throughout generations. The athletes in Fukuoka, through their engagement with these traditions, embody the true essence of international competitions – celebrating unity, friendship, and the richness of diverse cultures.