#Japan #Tokyo #early childhood #Sawada Sports Club #XR SPOMARU

A New Challenge in Early Childhood Exercise with AR

The growing concern over children's physical inactivity and the increase of indoor activities have prompted a groundbreaking initiative in Tokyo. Sawada Sports Club (SC), headquartered in Nerima, Tokyo, has launched an experimental program using AR (augmented reality) technology to promote physical activity within early childhood education settings, specifically in 50 nurseries and kindergartens across the city. This initiative aims to create an environment where every child, regardless of their athletic abilities, can enjoy moving their bodies while playing.

What is XR SPOMARU?

XR SPOMARU is an innovative indoor exercise platform that utilizes AR projections on the floor, offered by IM, a South Korean XR company. This system, which integrates projectors, sensors, and computers, encourages natural movements such as stepping, jumping, dodging, and chasing based on the projected visuals.

Key Features

• - AR x Exercise Integration: Combines augmented reality with physical activity, creating an engaging indoor platform.
• - No Special Equipment Needed: Safe for young children, eliminating the need for goggles or special devices.
• - Diverse Content: Offers over 80 different activities that include fitness, physical play, and brain-training elements that require reflexes and cognitive decisions.

User Capacity

• - Single Type: Accommodates up to 4 users.
• - Multi Type: Supports up to 8 users.

By merging play, physical activity, and game elements, XR SPOMARU naturally fosters social development in children through group activities, waiting for turns, and cooperative or competitive play.

Compatibility with Early Childhood Education

Unlike traditional fitness tools, XR SPOMARU is intended for integration into educational settings. It is designed to enhance and support physical education programs across various early childhood contexts, including:

• - Nurseries and Kindergartens: Ensuring children get indoor physical activity regardless of weather.
• - School Sports: Encouraging engagement from children who may feel intimidated by traditional sports.
• - Child Development Support Facilities: Providing clear, visual instructions to ease learning for both children and educators.
• - Event and Sports Facilities: Aligning with ICT education and STEAM initiatives.

Why Sawada Sports Club is Investing in AR Exercise

Sawada Sports Club has had a long-standing commitment to physical instruction tailored to the developmental stages of children. The decision to integrate AR technology stems from the philosophy of using technology not to replace physical activity but to broaden access to movement opportunities. They aim to create spontaneous avenues for children to engage in physical activities.

Future Plans

SC plans to fully implement the XR SPOMARU program by spring 2025. Insights and feedback from this pilot initiative will inform the rollout, ensuring that safety and practicality are prioritized while collaborating closely with early childhood educators.

About Sawada Sports Club

Established in 1975, Sawada Sports Club emphasizes educational programs grounded in research and theory, focusing on children’s growth through play. With nearly five decades of experience, they understand that early experiences significantly influence future development, both physically and emotionally. Their approach to physical instruction is centered on building a better future for children.

The Secret to 50 Years of Success

Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, Sawada Sports Club attributes its longevity to a steadfast commitment to adaptability and being responsive to changes in the field. Their dedication to nurturing each child individually has fostered trust within communities, leading them beyond mere exercise instruction to providing transformative life experiences.

Company Overview

• - Company Name: Sawada Sports Club, LLC
• - CEO: Yasunori Sawada
• - Location: 1F Shioya Building, 4-28-13 Shimokoshigami, Nerima-ku, Tokyo
• - Established: April 1, 1975
• - Business Scope: Sports education in various disciplines for young children including gymnastics, soccer, karate, dance, and more.
• - Registration: Public Interest Incorporated Foundation Japan Sports Club Association & NPO Sports Club Network
• - Website: www.1975sawada-sc.com