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Rikishi

What is Rikishi?

In sumo wrestling, a "rikishi" is a professional sumo wrestler. The term literally means "strong man" or "powerful man" in Japanese. Rikishi range in rank from the lowest divisions to the top division, known as the makuuchi division. Within the makuuchi division, there are further ranks, with yokozuna being the highest rank a rikishi can achieve.

Rikishi follow a strict regimen that includes intense training, a specific diet to maintain their size and strength, and adherence to traditional customs and rituals. Their lifestyle is highly disciplined and regimented, reflecting the deep cultural significance and history of sumo wrestling in Japan.

Related Article: Sumo Wrestling: The Traditional Japanese Combat Sport

In combat, those who have a lot of experience will deliberately make you waste your energy until you have not much left, and then they can take their time to hit you back. So the first lesson is: conserve your energy.
Yip Chun

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Other Glossary terms

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Wushu
Wushu is a modern exhibition and full-contact sport derived from traditional Chinese martial arts.
W
Triangle Step
The Triangle Step, also known as "Triangle Footwork" or "Saam Gok Ma" in Wing Chun, is a fundamental footwork pattern used to enhance mobility, positioning, and balance.
T
Bogu
Bogu is the protective armor worn by practitioners of Kendo during training and competition.
B
Kata
Kata is a fundamental component of traditional Karate and other martial arts, consisting of a series of choreographed movements and techniques performed in a specific sequence.
K
Muay Boran
Muay Boran is an ancient martial art from Thailand, known as the predecessor of modern Muay Thai. It encompasses a wide array of techniques used for both self-defense and combat, with an emphasis on striking, clinching, and grappling.
M
Economy of Motion
Economy of motion is a fundamental principle in martial arts, particularly emphasized in styles like Wing Chun.
E
Systema
Systema is a Russian martial art that emphasizes natural movement, relaxation, and adaptability.
S
Chang Quan
Chang Quan (长拳), also known as Long Fist, is a traditional style of Chinese martial arts characterized by its extended, flowing movements, wide stances, and dynamic techniques.
C
Dohyo
A "dohyo" is the ring or platform where sumo wrestling matches take place.
D
Capoeira Regional
Capoeira Regional is one of the two main styles of Capoeira, the other being Capoeira Angola.
C
Tekko
Tekko are traditional Okinawan weapons that resemble brass knuckles or knuckle dusters.
P
Canne de combat
Canne de combat is a French martial art that involves fighting with a cane or walking stick.
C
Northern Praying Mantis
Northern Praying Mantis (北派螳螂拳, Běi Pài Táng Láng Quán) is a traditional Chinese martial art that is renowned for its intricate and agile techniques, which mimic the movements of the praying mantis insect.
N
Fei Lung Kung Fu
Fei Lung Kung Fu (also spelled Fei Long Kung Fu), which translates to "Flying Dragon Kung Fu," is a style of Chinese martial arts that emphasizes fluid, dynamic movements and powerful strikes.
F
Brass Knuckles or Knuckle Dusters
Brass knuckles, also known as knuckle dusters, are handheld weapons designed to fit around the knuckles.
B
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