Training Day (Toreningu no Hi)

What Is Training Day?

Every April 1st is "Training Day" (Toreningu no Hi) in Japan. It was established in 1994 by Esport Mizuno, a directly managed store of sporting goods maker Mizuno Corporation in Kanda-Ogawamachi, Tokyo (now MIZUNO TOKYO). The idea is to encourage people to start jogging, fitness, or other training at the start of the new fiscal year, and to highlight the importance of training.

Mizuno's Own Connection to April 1st

April 1st also happens to be a milestone for Mizuno itself.

• Founded on April 1, 1906: Founder Rihachi Mizuno and his younger brother started "Mizuno Brothers Shokai" in Osaka, making and selling Western goods and athletic wear, on April 1, 1906 (Meiji 39).
• The origin of the name "美津濃": The kanji company name is said to insert the character "津" (a nod to his family's lumber wholesale business) into "美濃" (Mino), the old name of the founder's home province. In 1987 the name was unified to the katakana "ミズノ."

From Esport Mizuno to MIZUNO TOKYO

Esport Mizuno, which established this day, is Mizuno's flagship store in Kanda-Ogawamachi, Tokyo. It was renamed "MIZUNO TOKYO" when it reopened after renovation in March 2020, and it is one of the largest Mizuno stores in the Kanto region. It is one of the landmarks of the Kanda-Ogawamachi and Jimbocho area, known for its many sporting goods shops.

Interesting Facts About Training

• Where "training" comes from: Besides "a railway train," the English word "train" also means "to draw along" and "to discipline or teach," which gave rise to the word "training."
• An ancient legend of "a little heavier each day": Legend has it that the ancient Greek wrestler Milo of Croton carried a calf every day, growing stronger as the calf grew. The story is still often cited to illustrate the idea of gradually increasing the load.
• Where "protein" comes from: The word is said to come from a Greek word meaning "first" or "of primary importance." Protein is a main component not only of muscle but also of skin, hair, and nails.
• Rest is part of the program: In strength training, it's common to leave rest days in between rather than working the same muscles every day. Finding a pace you can keep up lasts longer than pushing too hard on day one.
• New fiscal year, new habits: In April, commuting routes and daily rhythms often change. It's a good moment to build exercise into your new routine, such as walking one extra station or taking the stairs.

Tips for Marking Training Day

• Start a new-year habit with a step you can't fail at, like just 10 squats or walking one station's distance
• Get some favorite workout clothes or shoes ready to build excitement about getting started
• Write down in a notebook why you want to train, to make your goal clear and easier to stick with
• After training, take care with meals and sleep so your body can rest properly

The First Step You Take on Your Own Builds the Foundation for the New Year

April 1st is a perfect day to start training along with the rhythm of a new life. There's no need to aim for perfection from the start. Small steps, repeated, can become the habit that supports you a year from now. Treasure the new rhythm that starts today and get your new fiscal year off to a light-footed start.