Why have Japanese athletes become world-class?”
From last month to this month, we've been witnessing incredible performances by Japanese athletes at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics. I was truly amazed by the age of the Japanese skateboarder who won a medal. And don't you think it draws attention that Japan won its first-ever medals in several sports, like fencing?
This success isn't limited to the Olympics and Paralympics. More and more Japanese athletes are making their mark overseas in various sports. I'd like to share some insights into the reasons behind this remarkable trend.
There are several factors behind the success of Japanese athletes, and I would like to discuss three of them.
1. Evolution of video technology
When we were young, we didn’t have the freedom to watch videos whenever we wanted. At best, we could only see a few pictures of ourselves days after a game to analyze our form. But now, with the advancements in video technology, athletes can review their performance immediately after they play. Not only that, they can even overlay their current form with their ideal form or the form they performed well.
In the past, athletes relied on their own instincts and their coaches' advice to correct their form. But today, adjustments are made based on video analysis. While verbal explanations are important, I believe visual understanding is far more effective. This is one of the major reasons for the improvement in performance we’re seeing today.
2. The wealth of information and opportunities for interaction
In the past, we didn’t have many chances to watch international games or witness how athletes played in other countries. But now, with various platforms at our disposal, we can easily access a wide range of performances from around the world. From MLB to international soccer leagues, athletes can absorb a tremendous amount of information and inspiration.
Moreover, as the number of matches against foreign players has increased, Japanese athletes are gaining more experience and confidence. As a result, they seem less intimidated, even when competing in major international tournaments.
3. Coaches and coaching methods
Traditionally, in Japan, sports teams were often led by veteran figures who had made significant contributions to their respective fields. However, this trend is changing. In sports like basketball, volleyball, rugby, and badminton, the head coaches of Japan’s national teams are increasingly coming from abroad.
When it comes to Japanese coaches, they often prefer to teach based on their own experiences. In other words, they may push their methods onto the players without fully considering individual characteristics. On the other hand, foreign coaches are typically under pressure to deliver results—they know that if they lose, they may lose their job. Therefore, they are constantly updating their knowledge, adopting what works best to win, and making adjustments as needed.
The development of sports science in particular is amazing, and new coaching methods are constantly emerging. It goes without saying which is better: a coach who embrace new approaches or a coach who stick solely to their past experiences.
4. What I've learned.
What I have learned from all of this is that the belief that "Japanese athletes can't compete because they are physically smaller than foreign athletes" isn't necessarily true. By increasing access to information and training under proper coaching methods, Japanese athletes can indeed succeed.
Additionally, I’ve realized how much we tend to rely on our own personal experiences. When it comes to what we've experienced ourselves, it’s easy to feel confident in teaching others. However, while that guidance may have worked for us, it doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for everyone else.
When I researched sports this time around, I couldn’t help but feel a bit concerned when I reflected on coaching methods. Have I been imposing my own experiences on others? Am I constantly seeking new information and updating my approach? This has been a valuable opportunity for me to reassess myself and consider points to be improved.