Ichiro Hosts 'Over 51' Sports Test for Active Senior Generations

On November 19, 2025, Ichiro Suzuki, the renowned baseball player, launched the CW-X × Ichiro 'Over 51' Sports Test, aimed specifically at individuals aged 51 and above. This innovative event was organized by Wacoal Corp., based in Kyoto, Japan, and led by its president, Keisuke Kawanishi. The initiative was inspired by Ichiro's desire to motivate his peers, who have stepped away from regular exercise, to start moving again.

Participants were selected via a lottery, and many expressed enthusiasm for the event, highlighting their long-term loyalty to CW-X apparel and a strong desire to enhance their fitness levels and challenge themselves despite their age. Passionate voices echoed the sentiment of wanting to learn about new exercise methods and maintain good health.

The event was structured into three engaging parts: the first segment focused on ‘Knowing Your Body,’ featuring a unique sports test developed by Wacoal’s Human Science Research and Development Center, which assessed hip joint functionality and overall body coordination. The second portion comprised an explanation of the event’s purpose, along with insights shared by Ichiro, marathon runner Kayoko Fukushi, and CEO Kawanishi, discussing the importance of conditioning and understanding one’s physical state at 51 and beyond.

In the final section, participants engaged in practical training alongside Ichiro, focusing on hip-centric exercises. It was a rare opportunity for attendees to receive direct advice from the baseball legend himself, creating an electrifying atmosphere filled with enthusiasm and smiles throughout the day.

In his opening remarks, Ichiro acknowledged the relevance of the moment by stating, “I understand that many of you here today are those who have enjoyed being active but have since stepped back. You are looking for ways to move your bodies again and seek new challenges. I have been playing baseball even now, and I’ve come to realize that maintaining awareness of my body’s condition is essential to avoid serious injuries.”

The sports tests conducted included four assessments: the 'Motor Function Test' for overall athletic ability, the 'Functional Reach Test' for hip stability and mobility, the 'Shoulder Mobility Test,' and finally, the 'Throwing Test,' which evaluated arm function through ball-throwing exercises. Upon completion, participants took part in a discussion segment titled 'Learning About Conditioning for Those Over 51,' where details about the purpose of the tests and the CW-X brand were shared.

Matsu, the brand manager of CW-X, noted the significance of this initiative, not just as a fitness test, but as a beacon of motivation for older generations who may feel their athletic potential slipping away. He cited that functions such as endurance, muscle strength, and flexibility do diminish after 50 if one remains inactive, but that these capabilities can always be trained.

Following this, Akiko Sakamoto from Wacoal elaborated on the sports tests, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness about one’s body composition and functionality for leading an active lifestyle. She indicated that participants performed slightly above average during the tests, suggesting high engagement and physical capability among attendees.

The gathering was invigorated further through interactive sessions where Ichiro, Fukushi, and Kawanishi shared their experiences, stressing the importance of understanding one’s body. Ichiro remarked, “While many focus on mental aspects, I believe the physical condition should come first. When our bodies are healthy, everything else follows.”

The final segment focused on practical exercises directly influenced by Ichiro’s training methods, introducing specific moves aimed at enhancing hip joint functionality and overall body awareness.

After meticulously guiding participants through dynamic stretching and strength exercises, Ichiro showcased his own impeccable running technique, inspiring attendees to emulate his form and keep pace with him. The event concluded with team photos, marking an occasion filled with positive vibes and a renewed commitment to physical activity among participants. 100% expressed their willingness to incorporate regular exercise into their daily lives, indicating the stark impact of Ichiro’s motivational approach.

In summary, the success of the CW-X × Ichiro 'Over 51' Sports Test lies not just in the measurements taken or the exercises performed, but rather in the shared energy of camaraderie and the stark realization that age is merely a number when it comes to embracing an active and engaging lifestyle.