Off The Record
Japanese Synchronized Walking Performance Will Hypnotize You
We’ve all participated in sport activities. Some sports may not be as demeaning as others, but they all consist of dedication, persistence, and teamwork.
Looking at synchronized walking from a Western perspective it may look odd, but the teamwork and precision almost look like an illusion. So yes, it’s odd AND impressive!
Shuudan Koudou, part sport, part performance was invented nearly 50 years ago at Nippon Sports Science Japanese University in Tokyo. They took the synchronized walking to its core.
“Shuudan Koudou,” translates to “collective action” or “group movement” — but is more accurately described as “synchronized walking.”
Students who participate in the annual Shuudan Koudou performance train for months, walking hundreds (even thousand) kilometers. Their training included exercises to get them in shape for the dazzling display. Initially open only to men, the sport was finally opened to women in 2011.
“People say Japanese youngsters these days lack the ability to work collectively in a group, but we just proved that we don’t,” said Keiko Suzuki, a former team captain. “We all mastered this highly disciplined training and made it our habit to stick to strict rules. I believe this experience will be an asset as we enter into the job market.”
In the video bellow, dozens of performers dressed in suits execute their routine with absolute precision.
Looking at this video for couple of times, it almost looks like these people are walking “through” themselves… it looks unbelievable!
Thanks to Takeshi Yoshikawa for this amazing video!
Watch this incredible video bellow:
Thanks to the featured video by Amazing Next.
