Suzuki Japan Cup 2025: The Premier National Aerobic Championship Awaits

Mark your calendars for November 9, 2025! The 42nd Suzuki Japan Cup, touted as the pinnacle of aerobic competition in Japan, will take place at the Ota City General Gymnasium. This prestigious event not only highlights the skill of Japan's top aerobic athletes but also carries a significant legacy, being one of the world's oldest aerobic competitions.

Japanese competitors have consistently made their mark on the international stage, often emerging victorious in global contests. Last year's senior division was particularly noteworthy, as top male contender Mizuki Saito and female competitor Riri Kitazume opted not to compete, leading to fierce battles for the championship title.

In the senior men's singles, Sho Kawai from Gunma Prefecture claimed his second victory. Meanwhile, Rio Yamamoto, who made an impressive comeback from injury, secured her first championship in the women's singles, showcasing sheer determination and talent. This year, even more young athletes are stepping up to the challenge, making the competition fiercer than ever.

Last Year’s Winners:

- Senior Men's Singles: Sho Kawai
- Senior Women's Singles: Rio Yamamoto

From the age of 11, athletes can participate in various categories: Senior, Junior, and Youth. Many budding competitors rush to practice as soon as school ends, some even commuting over an hour by car to train under more experienced coaches. Family support plays a vital role in their journey, as they strive for excellence while contending with injuries that come with the sport. Each athlete brings a unique story filled with personal dramas, and their performances radiate passion and commitment.

The upcoming event promises glimpses of world-class performances, the vibrant energy of dedicated athletes, and a continually evolving spectrum of aerobic competition. We invite coverage and features that capture the essence of this inspiring event.

Spotlight Athletes:

- Senior Trio Participants: Takahashi Trio
- Junior Trio Participants: Okamoto, Chizaki, Nakashima Trio

Participants at the national competition have earned their spots through regional qualifiers held across Japan, vying for the title of the best in the nation. For detailed information, refer to the attached PDF regarding performance order.

Broadcast Information

The tournament will be broadcast on NHKBS in late November, allowing broader audiences to witness the excitement.

Event Details:

- Event Name: Suzuki Japan Cup 2025 - 42nd All Japan Aerobic Championship
- Organizer: Japan Aerobic Federation (JAF)
- Date: November 9, 2025 (Opening at 9:00 AM, Ceremony at 10:30 AM)
- Location: Ota City General Gymnasium, 1-11 Higashikamata, Ota City, Tokyo
- Sponsors: Japan’s Sports Agency, Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Ota City, Japan Sports Association, Japan Gymnastics Association, Suzuki Corporation, NHK Global Media Services
- Admission Fee: 1,000 JPY (Advance registration required, applicable for middle school students and above) Purchase Here
- Official Website: Suzuki Japan Cup

Judging Criteria for Aerobic Events

Judging is carried out by a panel that includes a head referee, lead judge, and various specialists who assess performance based on artistic impression, execution, and difficulty. In pairs, trios, and group categories, the partnership dynamic is also evaluated. Scoring incorporates execution points, artistic points, and difficulty deductions to ensure a fair and comprehensive assessment.

The Difference Between Aerobics and Aerobic Competition

Aerobics, a broad term for cardiovascular exercise, encompasses various athletic forms, including running, swimming, and cycling. Aerobic competitive events, however, focus on performance heightening the standards established by rhythmic and structured movements to music. This competitive realm includes activities stemming from aerobic dance exercises, while the non-competitive sector, known as lifetime aerobics, promotes enjoyment among all ages. Recently, the Japan Aerobic Federation has promoted initiatives like Slow Aerobics for senior citizens and Adapted Aerobics for individuals with disabilities, aiming to enhance health and life quality across generations.