Fitness Day (Fittonesu no Hi)

What Is Fitness Day?

September 22nd is "Fitness Day" in Japan. It was established by the Japan Fitness Association (JAFA), a public interest incorporated association, with the goal of promoting fitness and encouraging healthier lifestyles. Just as school sports days are held around "Health and Sports Day" (now "Sports Day"), created to commemorate the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, the association hopes Fitness Day will become an occasion for people to improve their health.

Why September 22nd?

September 22nd is the founding anniversary of the Japan Fitness Association, which was established as a public interest corporation on this day in 1987. The association also cites the fact that September is "Health Promotion Month" under the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and that the summer heat has eased, making it an ideal season for exercise.

• Founding anniversary: The Japan Fitness Association was established as a public interest corporation on September 22, 1987.
• Health Promotion Month: September is the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's "Health Promotion Month."
• The Season for Exercise: With the summer heat easing, it's easier to begin a workout routine.
• Spreading Fitness Culture: Raising awareness to prevent lifestyle-related diseases and extend healthy life expectancy.

What Does "Fitness" Mean?

Fitness refers broadly to any physical activity aimed at maintaining health, building strength, and balancing body and mind. It includes not just gym workouts, but also walking and stretching.

• Aerobic exercise: Walking, running, cycling, and similar activities.
• Strength training: Bodyweight exercises and weight training.
• Flexibility: Stretching and yoga.
• Mental wellbeing: Exercise also helps reduce stress and improve sleep quality.

The Benefits of Fitness

Consistent exercise has positive effects on both body and mind.

• Preventing lifestyle diseases: Reduces the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity.
• Improved strength and stamina: Makes everyday movements easier.
• Better mental health: Stabilizes mood and reduces stress.
• Improved posture: Helps prevent stiff shoulders and lower back pain.

Fun Facts About Fitness Day

• Where "fitness" comes from: It is the noun form of "fit" (suitable, healthy), meaning a state of being physically fit and healthy, or the exercise done to achieve it.
• Online fitness: At-home workout options have expanded, giving people more choices than ever.
• Diversifying gyms: Japan now has 24-hour gyms, women-only gyms, and personal training studios.
• How much exercise: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.

Ways to Enjoy Fitness Day

• Start small with a light walk or some stretching.
• Try a trial lesson at a gym or fitness studio.
• Try an online workout you can do from home.
• Use a fitness tracking app to help build a lasting habit.

A Small Bit of Exercise Today Builds a Healthier Tomorrow

Fitness Day on September 22nd is a chance to make exercise part of your daily life. Move your body at a comfortable pace and give both your mind and body a refreshing reset.