The 42nd edition of the Suzuki Japan Cup, a prestigious national aerobic championship, took place on November 9, 2025, at the Ota City General Gymnasium in Tokyo. This event, organized by the Japan Aerobic Association, brought together some of the country’s most talented aerobic athletes, with 146 participants competing for the coveted titles across 13 different categories, split between senior and junior divisions.
Athletes had earned their spots in the national finals through regional competitions throughout the year, highlighting their dedication and skill. Among the competitors, six senior categories for athletes aged 17 and above and seven junior/ youth categories for those under 16 were included, showcasing the depth of talent in Japanese aerobics. The atmosphere was electric, as the gym resonated with cheers and energy from enthusiastic fans, contributing to an unforgettable experience.
The event not only highlighted individual brilliance but also fostered a sense of community among competitors, all united by their passion for aerobic performances. Broadcasting on NHK BS, viewers will have a chance to witness this exhilarating championship again on November 25 and 28, from 3:10 PM to 4:00 PM.
Senior Division Highlights
In the senior men's singles category, Sho Kawai from Gunma Prefecture emerged victorious, achieving a remarkable score of 18.900, the highest of the tournament. His performance was not only technically impressive but also beautifully executed, marking his third victory at this championship, following his consecutive wins. For his outstanding achievement, he was awarded the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Cup.
The highlight of the senior women’s singles was Aya Takahashi from Aichi Prefecture, who clinched her first national title with a stunning performance that showcased her remarkable flexibility. Her final score narrowly edged out the competition by just 0.05 points, indicating the level of competitiveness at this event.
Additionally, in the senior mixed pair category, the duo of Ikko Imamura and Kazuna Suzuki from Kanagawa Prefecture successfully claimed their second consecutive championship. The senior trio event was highlighted by another impressive performance from Takahashi alongside her teammates Shiori Takagi and Mitsuki Takagi, also from Aichi, which brought her final tally to two victories for the day.
Junior Division Highlights
In the junior girls' singles, Momoka Chizaki excelled once again, successfully defending her title with a dynamic routine themed around a black cat, earning a score of 18.150. This performance not only secured her the top position but also the NHK Global Media Service Cup, underlining her status as one of the reigning talents in aerobics.
In the junior boys’ singles category, Kaito Hoashi from Fukuoka Prefecture made a mark with a flowing performance aligned with classical music, celebrating his debut championship win.
The Suzuki Japan Cup serves as a qualifier for the upcoming 2026 Suzuki World Cup, providing an avenue for athletes to showcase their skills on an international level. The dedication shown by every participant, combined with the support from fans, created a thrilling atmosphere that only strengthens the future of aerobics in Japan. As competitors take the stage again in future international events, the passion and hard work displayed at this championship will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of aerobic athletes.