What is heya?

Heya (部屋)

Heya (部屋, "room") is a Japanese term most often referring to a stable of sumo wrestlers. More broadly, it simply means "room" or "house." In the context of sumo, it represents the foundational unit of the sport's organization and training.

• Sumo Stable (相撲部屋, Sumo%20Heya): This is the primary meaning of "heya" and represents a training and living quarters for sumo wrestlers. Each heya is headed by a Oyakata (親方), a former wrestler who has purchased elder stock in the Sumo Association. The Oyakata is responsible for training, managing, and housing the wrestlers in their stable.

• Stable System (部屋制度, Heya%20Seido): The heya system is crucial to the structure and function of professional sumo. New recruits typically join a heya upon entering the sumo world. The hierarchical structure within the heya dictates the daily life and training regime of the wrestlers.

• Training (稽古, Keiko): Daily training occurs within the heya and is overseen by the Oyakata and senior wrestlers. It is rigorous and physically demanding, focusing on technique, strength, and endurance.

• Living Arrangements: Wrestlers typically live in the heya, especially during their early careers. Junior wrestlers perform chores and serve the senior wrestlers.

• Recruitment: Oyakata and their assistants actively recruit talented individuals, often from high schools and colleges, to join their heya.

• Number of Stables: The number of heya is regulated by the Japan Sumo Association.

• Notable Stables: There are numerous well-known heya with long histories and successful wrestlers.

In short, a heya is more than just a room; it is a community, a family, and a training ground for sumo wrestlers, fundamental to the continuation and development of the sport.