Radio Taiso

Now this is a peculiar one.

Broadcast on NHK radio in the early morning, and used at other times to boost morale and to get regular exercise, Radio Taiso is a pillarstone of the Japanese cultural identity. It not only signifies the strong work ethic but also Japanese unity; everyone knows the tune and the movements. As Wikipedia states:

The exercises reflect the general role of exercise in Japanese culture--to serve as a symbol of unity and cooperation among the Japanese, as well as to raise energy levels and encourage good health. The purpose of the exercises is not to encourage students to become athletes but to push themselves and develop unity with their classmates.

Keiko would have to go out to the park opposite her house every 7am in the school holidays to participate with her class. It's only a few minutes long (and I'm guessing she, and all the other kids, went straight back to bed!) but it's a good wake-up exercise routine, although it does look a little old-fashioned now; it was once banned under US occupation for looking too militaristic!

Nevertheless, if you look hard enough group exercise breaks are still widely used in Japan in many situations. Take these workmen in Gotanda Station only a few months ago: