#Japan #Koto City #OHANA GYM #Yuta Sugawara #fitness culture

The Launch of OHANA&Co.

On July 14, 2025, OHANA&Co. was officially established in Koto City, Tokyo, with a mission to create a society where everyone can maintain mental and physical harmony and move beautifully for a hundred years. Founded by Yuta Sugawara, a personal trainer and licensed physiotherapist, OHANA&Co. emerged from the personal gym, 'OHANA GYM conditioning studio,' which had been catering to individuals seeking to enhance their health since December 2022.

The Background

Sugawara's journey as a personal trainer spans over a decade. He has witnessed countless instances where individuals who struggle with fitness hesitantly enter personal training gyms. Despite an increase in the number of gyms—both personal and 24-hour facilities—the overall fitness of the Japanese population does not seem to be improving. Sugawara believes that this issue stems not only from shifts in workplace dynamics due to the pandemic but also from the way gyms are structured.

In exhibitions for the sports health industry, the spotlight often highlights offerings targeted at fitness enthusiasts. While expanding gym access is commendable, Sugawara argues that merely increasing gym locations does not correlate to healthier communities. Many individuals are deterred from exercising by the stereotype of bodybuilding, realizing too late that the idea of 'working out' can be intimidating, especially with the prevalence of muscular bodies showcased on social media. This perception has further distanced those who find it challenging to engage with fitness from the gym experience.

Evolving Fitness Mindsets

Globally, the approach to training has evolved significantly in recent years. The traditional focus on bodybuilding and heavy lifting is now just a narrow reflection of a multifaceted fitness landscape. Today, holistic training encompasses functional fitness, flexibility, cardiovascular health, and factors like mental health, nutrition, and environmental influences. Sugawara's goal for OHANA&Co. is to inspire those who find it hard to start exercising to focus more on their bodies and well-being.

The mission statement of OHANA resonates deeply with Sugawara's passion for improving community health through fitness. The name 'OHANA' derives from the Hawaiian word symbolizing family, friendship, and kinship. It conveys a sense of connection and community—a testament to how we thrive as Homo sapiens through our relationships with others. Sugawara expresses gratitude for the support he has received that contributes to his current well-being.

The Logo and Its Significance

The company logo features the Hawaiian green sea turtle (Honu), a symbol of luck and protection at sea. The turtle's shell is adorned with plumeria blossoms, representing wishes for the happiness of loved ones. Understanding the symbolism behind this logo helps convey the warmth of OHANA&Co.'s mission instantly.

Vision, Mission, and Values

At the core of OHANA&Co.'s vision is the aspiration for every individual to maintain harmony of body and mind, enabling beautiful movement for a century. The mission focuses on establishing a foundation for health through physiotherapist-led conditioning, empowering each person to take charge of their health.

The organizational values prioritize sincerity, continuous professional growth, individual-centric approaches, fostering independence, and creating sustainable habits that promote long-term health.

Future Developments

The primary focus for OHANA&Co. includes running personal training operations, but Sugawara has ambitious plans for future expansion, such as:

• - Establishing recovery facilities aimed at body conditioning and fatigue recovery, referred to as 'gyms that do not train.'
• - Promoting health management initiatives within companies by offering on-site conditioning services and wellness seminars.
• - Expanding personal gym locations to provide more support for health foundation creation.
• - Developing wellness retreat programs that combine travel and fitness, allowing clients to distance themselves from daily routines and reset their mental and physical state.

Company Overview

Company Name: OHANA&Co.

CEO: Yuta Sugawara

Location: 2F Alto Fukagawa, 1-4-8 Fukagawa, Koto City, Tokyo

Capital: 3 million yen

Website: OHANA GYM

E-Mail: [email protected]

Call for Collaborations

OHANA&Co. is currently looking for companies interested in health management initiatives for their employees. By understanding the unique challenges businesses face, Sugawara aims to craft customized health events or on-site conditioning programs. Companies committed to their employees' health are encouraged to reach out for tailored solutions. Moreover, individuals or organizations intrigued by OHANA&Co.'s vision are encouraged to get in touch to explore collaborative opportunities in advancing health initiatives.