Morning Radio Taiso (Radio Calisthenics)

Have you ever heard of radio calisthenics? In Japan, there is a culture of “Morning Radio Taiso (Radio Calisthenics)” that can be enjoyed by everyone from children to the elderly. The purpose of radio calisthenics was to improve the physical fitness and health of the people, and many elderly people still participate in these exercises, which may be one of the reasons why the Japanese people are so healthy. In this article, we will discuss the history of radio calisthenics and its effects.

The Birth of Radio Taiso (Radio Calisthenics)

The world’s first “Radio Taiso” (radio calisthenics) was broadcast in 1922 by a Boston radio station in the United States. Later, in 1925, an American life insurance company, aiming to promote the health of the nation, began broadcasting an exercise program called “Setting up exercise” on the radio. This sparked interest in creating radio-based health calisthenics in Japan. In 1928, with the collaboration of the Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) and the Ministry of Education, “Radio Taiso No. 1” was created. Subsequently, in 1929, nationwide broadcasts were initiated. The content of the exercises was reconstructed as “Radio Taiso No. 1 and No. 2” in 1951-1952, and it continues to be cherished by many as an easily accessible exercise that anyone can practice.

Summer Vacation Radio Calisthenics

For Japanese people, radio calisthenics are often associated with memories of elementary school summer vacations. This is because during the summer break, there was a morning exercise routine of going to the elementary school or a nearby park to participate in radio calisthenics. While participation in radio calisthenics was optional, those who joined could get their stamp cards stamped, and by collecting a certain number of stamps, they could receive rewards such as snacks or stationery on the final day.Not only does it refresh you in the morning, but it is also a great way to get into the rhythm of your life during the long vacation and a great opportunity to communicate with your friends.

The tradition of summer vacation radio calisthenics began in July 1930 when a police officer from the Kanda Manseibashi Police Station initiated the “Children’s Early Rising Event” with the aim of ensuring that children lead disciplined lives during the summer break.

Current Radio Calisthenics

Let us now look at the present-day radio calisthenics.
NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) still broadcasts Radio Exercise No. 1 every morning at 6:30 am. This means that people of all ages, including office workers before going to work, mothers who are not getting enough exercise, and the elderly who are trying to maintain their health, participate in the exercises. Although it is only about 5 minutes long, it is perfect for busy mornings, and after the exercises are over, both body and mind feel refreshed.

In addition to the routine broadcasting of daily radio calisthenics, there is an event called “10 Million People Radio Calisthenics: Everyone’s Calisthenics Festival.” This event stands as the largest radio calisthenics gathering, aiming to have simultaneous radio calisthenics sessions with over 10 million participants. The event has been held annually since 1962, taking place in various regions across the country during the summer vacation period from July to August.

reference：https://www.jp-life.japanpost.jp/radio/festival/

Benefits of Radio Calisthenics

Radio calisthenics can be performed in both a standing and sitting position, allowing individuals to adjust the intensity based on their own fitness level and physical condition. It involves movements that engage the entire body, including the upper and lower limbs. Additionally, within the routine, there are various joint movements such as forward and backward bending, twisting, and stretching. This makes it an effective warm-up activity, particularly beneficial when performed in the morning or before engaging in other exercises.

It is so popular that when the song “Radio Calisthenics” is sung, the body naturally begins to move. 10 minutes of exercises, but by carefully performing each movement, the heart rate increases, and the workout becomes
vigorous that it makes you sweat. Imagine that you are relaxing your body from the corners (far from the heart) to improve blood circulation throughout your body.

Each of the 13 patterns of movements in Radio Calisthenics 1 and Radio Calisthenics 2 includes exercises that are expected to improve stiff shoulders, promote respiratory function, improve digestive function, and prevent back pain. To enhance the effectiveness of the exercises, please keep the following in mind

1. Stretch thoroughly to the fingertips
   
2. Perform while breathing
3. Concentrate on the muscles being moved

Let’s try radio calisthenics!

Radio calisthenics No.1

Radio calisthenics No. 2

Radio calisthenics are performed for the purpose of maintaining good health. Therefore, if you are in poor physical condition or injured, you should refrain from exercising. It is important to exercise within a reasonable range according to your physical condition.

 

reference：https://www.jp-life.japanpost.jp/health/radio/
https://www.fpp.or.jp/radio_taiso/pdf/2020_chousa.pdf