Former Pro Soccer Player Takashi Fukunishi Hosts Unique Sports Workshop on the Power of Chewing

Chewing Power Meets Soccer: A Unique Workshop for Kids

On January 25, 2026, a unique event titled "The Power of Chewing in Sports" took place in Shinagawa, Tokyo, organized by Lotte Corporation and LOCOK. Former professional soccer player Takashi Fukunishi and Professor Tomotaka Takeda from Tokyo Dental College engaged with 50 elementary school students to discuss the crucial link between chewing and sports performance.

Engaging the Youth

The event commenced with an interactive quiz introduced by Lotte, focusing on the significance of chewing in sports. Students were eager to learn, posing questions such as, "How is gum made?" and "Can we create flavorless gum?" This not only deepened their understanding of the act of chewing but also sparked interest in the roles and possibilities of gum.

In the subsequent talk show segment, Fukunishi elaborated on how chewing could enhance sports performance. He explained to the children that chewing activates brain functions and improves muscle mobility and body balance. Additionally, he discussed how tensing the jaw while heading a soccer ball stabilizes the neck region, contributing to safety and better ball control. Fukunishi emphasized the importance of learning from experts and recounted his own experience of chewing gum during training, suggesting to the young athletes that a greater awareness of chewing could actually benefit their soccer skills.

Hands-On Experience

After the discussions, the group moved to the school grounds where Fukunishi guided them in various soccer drills while chewing gum. The kids practiced dribbling and one-bounce juggling, encouraged to think creatively about improving their skills. Many experienced noticeable improvements in their performance in a short period. Fukunishi passionately urged the children to view challenges as opportunities by saying, "If something is difficult, think about how you can solve it. Don’t just decide it’s too hard without trying. Think about how you can move better and work together to succeed."

The children expressed their joy at learning from Fukunishi, with comments like, "I was so happy to learn soccer from Fukunishi!" and "I was surprised to find out how important chewing is for soccer." One student even noted, "When I chewed gum while shooting, it felt stronger than usual," highlighting the event's success in illustrating the significance of chewing power in sports.

Objectives of the Initiative

Lotte aims to promote physical and mental well-being, laying out its vision titled "Lotte Mirai Challenge 2048" as one of its sustainability goals. By the year 2048, Lotte aspires to create a future filled with happiness through new products and services that contribute to well-being. As part of this initiative, they are committed to raising awareness about the importance of chewing and the benefits of Xylitol through events involving dental professionals and local communities.

Lotte continues to push boundaries with findings in food and health while harnessing the benefits of chewing. The corporation's goal is to contribute to a richer life for everyone through the dissemination of knowledge and research on the positive impacts of chewing.

About Takashi Fukunishi

Graduating from Ehime Prefectural Niihama Technical High School in 1995, Fukunishi joined Jubilo Iwata. He participated in 349 J-League matches, earning the title of Best Eleven four times. He represented Japan in consecutive World Cups in 2002 and 2006 and played 64 international matches, playing a crucial role in his team's victory at the 2004 Asia Cup.

After transitions to FC Tokyo and Tokyo Verdy, he retired in January 2009. Today, he works as a soccer commentator and involves himself in coaching sessions, public speaking, and his YouTube channel aimed at nurturing the next generation of soccer players.

About Professor Tomotaka Takeda

- Position: Visiting Professor, Tokyo Dental University, Oral Health Science, Sports Dental Laboratory, PhD
- Affiliations: Sports dentistry specialist with connections to the Japanese Olympic Committee and various sports organizations, dedicated to enhancing sports health and safety through dental advice and practices.

About LOCOK

LOCOK, headquartered in Tokyo, is committed to providing limitless possibilities through education. They operate various educational projects, including early childhood programs, wellness gardens, and educational parks. Their mission aligns with enhancing the overall well-being and education of children and youths.