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Tsukebito

What is Tsukebito?‍

A tsukebito is an apprentice or personal attendant to a higher-ranking sumo wrestler, typically a sekitori (a wrestler in the top two divisions: makuuchi and jūryō). The role of a tsukebito involves various duties aimed at supporting the daily life and training of the senior wrestler. These duties can include:

  1. Assisting with Training: Helping the senior wrestler during practice sessions.
  2. Household Chores: Performing tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry.
  3. Personal Assistance: Helping the senior wrestler dress, especially in traditional attire like the mawashi (sumo belt) and kimono.
  4. Running Errands: Taking care of any errands or tasks outside the sumo stable (heya).
  5. Support During Tournaments: Assisting the senior wrestler during sumo tournaments, including preparing their gear and providing moral support.

The role of a tsukebito is an important part of the hierarchical structure within a sumo stable, and it provides younger or lower-ranking wrestlers with the opportunity to learn from their seniors and understand the discipline and lifestyle required to succeed in sumo wrestling.

Related Article: Sumo Wrestling: The Traditional Japanese Combat Sport

The warrior learns of the spiritual realm by dwelling on the cutting edge of the sword, standing at the edge of the fire pit, venturing right up to the edge of starvation if necessary. Vibrant and intense living is the warrior's form of worship.
Stephen K. Hayes

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