“Shin-Gi-Tai” (“Heart-Technique-Physique”) — those three words can be found all over the sumo world.
Encapsulating what it takes to be a great rikishi, the phrase is inscribed on signboards, ceremonial aprons and in countless other places in Japan’s national sport.
While being big or adept at either pushing or grappling are advantages in sumo, heart is by far the most important of the three elements.