The considerable food consumption of sumo wrestlers is a fundamental element of their training and lifestyle. This dietary practice is not merely about gaining weight, but rather about building a specific type of physique crucial for success in the sport. The aim is to increase body mass predominantly through fat and muscle, providing both the size and power needed to dominate opponents in the ring.
This high-calorie intake is critical for achieving a significant size advantage. Larger wrestlers possess a lower center of gravity, making them more stable and difficult to move. Furthermore, the added mass provides greater force during collisions and grappling. Historically, this dietary approach has been passed down through generations of wrestlers, with each stable (training house) maintaining unique traditions and recipes to support the growth and development of its athletes.
