Sumo can trace it's origins back 2,000 years to Shinto harvest rites, and strong links with Shinto remain in many sumo rituals. There are 6 sumo tournaments in Japan every year, broadcast live on TV and followed enthusiastically. Training is a way of life for sumo wrestlers.
Despite their size - there are no weight restrictions - sumo wrestlers (rikishi) move quickly and with agility. Matches are often short, 10 seconds or less. The loser is the first to touch the ground with any part of his body, except the soles of his feet, or to step out of, or to be pushed from, the ring. The referee (gyoji) declares the winner.
The wrestlers'hair is oiled and fastened into a topknot (mage).
Only 48 winning techniques are commonly used, but many more have been identified.
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