Sumo, as a martial art, dates back to the early 8th century in Japan where it
was originally part of religious ceremonies. Sumo was then later introduced to
ceremonies held by the Imperial Court. Historically, it is interesting to note that
Jujutsu is actually an
offshoot of Sumo wrestling.
Originally Sumo contained elements of boxing and wrestling, but over time rules
were gradually introduced which transformed it to resemble the Sumo wrestling
that we know today.
The Sumo rules are simple:
Two competitors wearing mawashi (silk belts) push and pull each other within a circle of 4.5 meters in diameter.
The first person to leave the ring or touch the ground with any part of the body except the sole of the feet, loses the bout.
Sumo is now the national sport of Japan and immensely popular. It is also unique to Japan. Sumo wrestlers enjoy a very high regard in the Japanese society.
Most rikishi (Sumo wrestlers) are professional competitors weighing 100 to 200 kg.
Origin of Sumo: Japan
All rights reserved.
Martial Arts Glossary
Karate Quiz