Japanese radio taiso refers to specific exercises broadcasted on the radio in the morning. It is widely known in Japan and is conducted for the promotion of public health.
While radio taiso is often performed collectively in places like parks and schools, individuals can also do it at home or in their rooms. It is designed to promote flexibility and enhance basic physical fitness.
Japanese radio taiso is a traditional health practice that has been continued since the Showa era, and it is cherished by many. Even today, it is regularly held in various regions as part of community activities.
The world’s first ‘Radio Taiso’ was broadcast in 1922 by a Boston radio station in the United States. Then, in 1925, an American life insurance company began broadcasting the exercise program ‘Setting up exercise’ on the radio with the aim of promoting the health of the nation. This sparked a growing interest in creating radio-based health exercises in Japan. In 1928, the Japan Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) and the Ministry of Education collaborated to create ‘Radio Taiso First,’ and by the following year in 1929, it was being broadcast nationwide. This program, which allows easy exercise to be enjoyed to the rhythm of music, received positive feedback. In 1932, ‘Radio Taiso Second’ was established, followed by ‘Radio Taiso Third’ in 1939. Radio Taiso rapidly spread among the Japanese people.”
After the end of the war, Radio Taiso, which had been temporarily suspended, resumed on August 23. However, under the guidance of the GHQ, who deemed it could lead to a resurgence of militarism, the old Radio Taiso was discontinued in the following year of 1946. Instead, the ‘New Radio Taiso First to Third’ was established and broadcasted. However, it did not gain much popularity, and by 1947, the broadcasts were discontinued. Furthermore, since then, ‘Radio Taiso Third’ has never been created again. Because of this, it is sometimes referred to as the ‘Lost Radio Taiso,’ as it has been lost to history.”
In 1951, with the rebirth of NHK as a public broadcaster, the third generation of “Radio Taiso First” was created. The composition was handled by the classical musician, Mr. Masaru Hattori. With the aim of being something “anyone, regardless of age or gender, can do,” it incorporated friendly music and easy-to-follow exercises, quickly regaining popularity. The following year in 1952, envisioning exercises in the workplace, “Radio Taiso Second” was born with a focus on “strengthening the body and muscles.” In 1962, the “First 10 Million People Radio Taiso Festival” was held, where 10 million people nationwide exercised simultaneously, causing a tremendous response. Since then, it has grown into a national event held every year up to the present day.
In 1999, “Minna no Taiso” was devised as a form of exercise that “everyone, regardless of age, gender, or disability, can enjoy.” It consists of eight exercises that can be performed in a small space or even while sitting. The unveiling ceremony garnered significant attention with the attendance of the Prime Minister, Minister of Postal Services, and representatives from NHK. “Minna no Taiso” is broadcasted on NHK General TV every weekday at 9:55 AM for five minutes. The program demonstrates exercises in both standing and sitting positions.
The Japan Society YouTube channel has a great video introducing Radio Taiso in English.