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In this article, we would like to briefly talk about the Shiko squat movement in the Sumo ceremony before the match.
Have you seen a sumo wrestler stomping the ring (dohyo) with his big feet? It is called Shi ko. But why do wrestlers do such a movement?
Why do they do Shi ko?
Shiko movement contains some religious meaning. It tells us (or the God of the harvest) that they, sumo wrestlers, stamp out any bad luck or evil in the land (ring/dohyo) and purify it for a good harvest outcome.
So, the movement is a special prayer that follows the Sumo wrestling’s purpose, an Exhibition match to entertain the Gods! And make them great fun!
In addition, it is the same reason why sumo wrestlers always throw salt into the dohyo when they enter, because many Japanese believe that salt has the power to purify bad things. So, the sumo match is considered a sacred event.
By the way, the wrestlers can grab the salt as much as they want. Thus, it is one wealthy point to see which wrestler would crab how much salt.
Sometimes, a wrestler throws too much. It is like powder snow falling!
The Shiko squat can be a good training.
The movement could be good training (working out). It is effective for strengthening the lower body, particularly the muscles around the back, hips, knees, ankles, and toes.
The proper way is to open both legs and ensure that the height of the hips and knees is equal, meaning you should maintain a very straight form.
Do not bend. Thus, we should hold straight from your upper body to the hip, as a steel hard wire pierces through your body.
Nowadays, many exercise/cardio instructors use movement as an effective program.
Doing the movement for 10 minutes results in 108 kcal. Surprisingly, it is similar to jogging.
If it is hard to do for 10 minutes, just 1 minute is also effective. (Almost five times to do this movement). The most important thing is to keep the correct firm.
Here is a fun fact about the name Shiko
Shi ko also meant Ugly in Japan. In the Kanji capitals, Shi ko were 醜足 in ancient times. It exactly meant Ugly Feet.
However, that capital also has another meaning. It is strong/tough like a monster. Now, the capitals are 四股 (the sound is the same). It expresses two pairs of legs.
To close
Thank you for reading this article!
The squat is a unique thing in sumo wrestling. Praying, purifying the land, and also good exercise and training methods.
But it is the tip of the iceberg.
If you want to learn more about Japan, we have another article categorized into four sections.
They are about Japanese lifestyle, food, the Edo era, and religions in Japan.
Please challenge them!
OK. Then, see you for the next uniqueness in Japan!