50 Years of English Learning and a Return to Judo: A Journey Beyond the Classroom
At 65, Hiroshi Tanaka, a judo instructor at Tokyo University of Education, has spent half a century refining his English skills while maintaining a lifelong connection to judo. His story intertwines language acquisition with physical discipline, offering insights into how personal passions can evolve over decades.
Tanaka, who began studying English in his teens, said, “Language is a tool for understanding the world, but judo is a way of living.” His dedication to both fields reflects a rare balance between intellectual and physical pursuits. While his primary role is as a judo instructor, his English proficiency has opened doors to international exchange programs and collaborations with global martial arts communities.
From Classroom to Dojo: A Dual Path
Tanaka’s journey began in the 1970s when he enrolled at Tokyo University of Education, a institution renowned for its emphasis on both academic and physical education. “The university encouraged students to explore diverse interests,” he recalled. “I was drawn to judo’s philosophy of mutual welfare and benefit, but I also saw the value of learning English to connect with the wider world.”
Despite his focus on judo, Tanaka continued to study English throughout his career. “There were times when I prioritized training over language practice,” he admitted. “But I always returned to it. It’s like judo—consistent effort over time leads to mastery.”
The Role of Language in Martial Arts
Experts in sports psychology note that language skills can enhance athletic performance by improving cognitive flexibility and cultural awareness. Dr. Yuki Sato, a researcher at the Japan Institute of Sports Sciences, explained, “Athletes who are multilingual often demonstrate better adaptability in competitive settings. This is especially true in martial arts, where understanding different training methods and philosophies is crucial.”
Tanaka’s experience aligns with this research. He has led exchange programs that bring Japanese judo practitioners to English-speaking countries and vice versa. “Language bridges gaps,” he said. “When I teach in English, I’m not just sharing techniques—I’m fostering mutual respect and shared goals.”
A Decade-Long Hiatus and a Return
In 2023, Tanaka took a break from judo for the first time in decades. “I needed to reflect on my practice,” he shared. “But after a year away, I felt the pull of the mat again.” His return to judo coincided with a renewed focus on language learning, as he began mentoring students preparing for international competitions.
His students, many of whom are aspiring athletes, value his unique perspective. “Sensei’s English skills help us prepare for global events,” said 17-year-old judo athlete Aiko Nakamura. “He teaches us not just how to fight, but how to communicate and collaborate.”
Why It Matters: A Model for Lifelong Learning
Tanaka’s story highlights the importance of balancing different aspects of personal development. “People often think of sports and academics as separate,” said Dr. Sato. “But they’re interconnected. Tanaka’s example shows how one can thrive in both areas.”
His approach also underscores the value of persistence. “Fifty years is a long time,” Tanaka said. “But every day, I choose to keep learning. Whether it’s English or judo, the process is what matters.”
What’s Next: Expanding Horizons
Tanaka plans to continue his work at Tokyo University of Education while exploring new ways to integrate language and sports. “I’m considering a project that combines judo training with English language workshops for international students,” he said. “It’s a way to share what I’ve learned over the years.”
For now, he remains focused on his students and the judo community. “The mat is my classroom,” he said. “And the language is my way of reaching beyond it.”
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