I am told that Okazaki Sensei often held Sumo competitions at his dojo, and even sponsored larger events. I have often wondered of all the various forms of martial arts competition available, why train in Sumo ? I think after the last few days of practicing Sumo I may have an idea. If you have ever watched a Sumo shai (tournament) you would be blown away by the speed and intensity of the matches. Sumotori (practitioners of Sumo) spend several minutes trying to mentally upset their opponent before getting into the ring. Contestants square off and, bang its over. Sumo in one of the oldest known combat sports and is highly ritualistic but it seem so real when you get down to it. Hajime, bang, its over. Very much like a real fight. The opponent tried to get into your head to put you off balance and then attacks. Real fights are very immediate, and over very quick. No 45 minute chess match like our BJJ cousins, not even the several moments spent jockeying for position like Judo, its just bang and its over, 20 seconds is a long match.
Juxtapose that with a violent assault, and you have an amazing set of similarities.
After an evening of Sumo training, the class did some simple self defense material, I noticed it was easier to stay focused on the incoming punch after a few rounds in the Sumo ring. Lets keep out eyes out for the next big craze in martial arts, Sumo Self Defense !
I have attached some photos of tonight's Sumo matches for you enjoyment.
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