Tokyo Weekender January 2017

Change Your
Workout
Need to burn some calories, but bored of your standard training sessions? Over the
next five pages, we round up five Japanese martial arts to try, along with some new
fitness trends, gadgets, and workshops to keep you fit and inspired
Compiled by Dorothee Erle & Annemarie Luck
MARTIAL ARTS
Last year’s fitness trend was all about less
is more, with many choosing to do weight
training from home, or to count the number
of steps taken each day in lieu of taking time
out for a jog around the block. But there’s something
to be said for turning your workout into
a sociable occasion and joining a group class,
especially if you’re new to the city, or simply feel
like meeting new people. And since we’re in Japan,
it makes sense to try something traditional. To that
end, we’re recommending five martial arts to try,
including a couple of classics as well as some more
modern ones. Then, over the next few pages, we’ve
collected a few fitness treats for those who love a
good trend – or a good gadget.
JIU JITSU
If you prefer more action to meditation, Japanese jiu jitsu might be a
good option for you. Developed by samurai warriors as a weaponless
fighting technique to be used in times when they had no sword on
hand, it’s considered to be one of the oldest Japanese martial arts. The
jiu jitsu-ka learns to react quickly to an opponent’s attack, using their
energy against them, and incapacitating them with techniques such
as pins, joint locks and throws. In this sense, it’s a little like wrestling
as it requires full body effort and contact, which also makes it ideal
for strength and cardio training. The sport also focuses on breathing
techniques, increases flexibility, and endurance.
WHERE TO TRY IT Axis Jiu Jitsu Academy, www.axisjj.com
26 | JANUARY 2017 | TOKYO WEEKENDER