#Japan #Tokyo #LAVA International #SAMURAI 2026 #SUMI Group

SAMURAI 2026: An Innovative Challenge for Everyone

On October 12, 2026, the highly anticipated final of the SAMURAI 2026 physical competition will take place at the BumB Tokyo Sports Culture Center in Shin-Kiba, Tokyo. This exciting event, organized by SUMI Group, which includes LAVA International, is not only a platform for showcasing athleticism but also aims to encourage healthy lifestyles among individuals of all ages and backgrounds. With no participation fees and a grand prize of 10 million yen, SAMURAI 2026 opens its doors to everyone, inviting enthusiastic participants to compete and challenge themselves.

The Motivation Behind the Event

As Japan experiences an increase in average life expectancy, a significant gap between average and healthy life spans has emerged as a concerning issue. The SAMURAI 2026 competition is designed to address this concern by providing a venue where the value of lifelong physical activity can be recognized, irrespective of age or competitive experience.

Previous Competitions: Progressing Toward the Final

Thus far, the qualifying rounds have extended from Tokyo, Osaka, to Fukuoka, totaling five events with fifteen competitors ready to advance to the finals. Participants, varying from dedicated fitness enthusiasts to seasoned trainers, have engaged in serious competition. Noteworthy is the inclusion of female athletes reaching the finals, showcasing that this contest is open to everyone based solely on athletic capability.

Unique Features of the Competition

1. Challenging and Varied Events

Each qualifying round features different events based on functional training, ensuring a mix of simplicity and difficulty. The rules are straightforward, yet the structure disallows shortcuts, requiring all participants to showcase their overall physical fitness—independent of prior competitive experience.

2. An Open Challenge for All

With no entry fees and no prerequisite qualifications, anyone who is regularly engaged in fitness training can take part in SAMURAI 2026. This inclusive environment allows challengers to face the question, “How far can I push my body?”—drawing in a diverse range of competitors determined to test their limits.

Words from the Organization

Takahiko Washimi, the chairman of SUMI Group, expresses a profound sentiment regarding the event: “At 87, I see someone jogging ten kilometers daily and feel that Japan still possesses the spirit of challenge. There is a rising concern regarding the discrepancy between average and healthy life spans. SAMURAI 2026 is structured such that the efforts of those who consistently engage in physical activity can lead to something tangible, regardless of age or status. I hope this event prompts individuals to confront their physical selves and motivates them to keep challenging themselves.”

Follow Us on YouTube

For those interested in watching the competition's vibrancy, SUMI Channel on YouTube features footage from previous qualifiers, showcasing the exhilarating atmosphere and the passionate drive of participants as they push their physical limits. Don't miss out on the chance to experience this challenge visually!

Qualifying Rounds Schedule

The upcoming qualifiers are as follows:

• - 6th Qualifier: February 11, 2026, in Tokyo (Yaesu School Share)
• - 7th Qualifier: March 1, 2026, in Nagoya (Nagono Campus)
• - 8th Qualifier: March 29, 2026, in Sendai (Tire World Best Dome)
• - Upcoming events: Osaka in April, Tokyo in May, Nagoya in June, and others confirmed post-April.

The Final Event

The concluding event will be held on October 12, 2026, at BumB Tokyo. Participants who rank in the top three of each qualifying round and the best time-trialists will proceed to the finals.
Prizes for the top finishers will include:

• - 1st Place: 10 million yen
• - 2nd Place: 3 million yen
• - 3rd Place: 1 million yen
• - Additional prizes for places 4 through 8 ranging from 500,000 to 50,000 yen.

Participation Criteria

To join, individuals must be 18 years or older, healthy, and willing to challenge their physical limits.

For more information, visit the official website at samurai20xx.com or contact the SAMURAI operations office via email at [email protected]. We welcome media coverage, interviews, and photographing opportunities at both the qualifiers and finals, encouraging you to explore the event more closely.

In summary, SUMI Group represents a consortium of eight companies aimed at fostering a society filled with healthy and happy individuals as part of their commitment to well-being. Through their various brands and businesses, including LAVA International and others, they continue to challenge and grow in the fitness, health, and wellness sectors in Japan and internationally, continually inspiring countless individuals to embrace healthier lifestyles.