Re: (Sumo) Akebono; Rikishi benching and squats

[shiroikuma@email.cz]

> I am not sure about Konishiki but there is no doubt that Akebono in
> good shape can do quite a few more pushups.

First of all, though udetate is pushups, it's not regular pushups, guys do 
in Western gyms. Though lighter rikishi usually do pushups, heavier ones do 
modified ones, usually just bending the arms slightly and arching their 
backs. I remember in Michinoku, neither Hoshitango, nor Hoshiandesu could 
do a single pushup, which is not surprising. So I don't think Akebono can 
do pushups. I'd be really surprised considering his huge body mass and 
skinny arms.
 
> I am sure he can bench press 300-400 lbs no problem   
> Some of the rikishis are in superb physical condition. I heard one

Finally, I seriously doubt Akebono can bench even 300 lbs. I did 
powerlifting and can say that for an untrained athlete (in benchpressing I 
mean) this would be a somewhat spectacular feat. Most pro rikishi actually 
are very weak in their upper bodies, any regular guy that does serious 
lifting is stronger with regard to upper body strength.

Amateur rikishi actually, since they usually stem from power disciplines - 
lifting, boxing, wrestling - are well built on top. But they do not stand a 
chance even when put against a low ranking deshi in any heya. This seems to 
be because the key in sumo is lower body strength. Upper body strength 
(excluding grip strength) is not necessary and is usually not developed. 
Most rikishi therefore are surprisingly week in arms, chest, and shoulder 
areas.

I've heard stories about Chiyonofuji and Kirishima benching 200, some even 
say 250kg (550lbs). Undoubtedly Chiyo and Kirishima were better built than 
most rikishi, but with this level of performance they'd easily become 
record holders at their weight in active times. I'd find it hard to believe 
that either of them would be able of benching even 150kg (330lbs).

No disrespect intended here, but the truth is most rikishi aren't real 
"strongmen" as their name entails in Western terms, i.e. benching power.

Later,

ShiroiKuma
ShiroiKuma@bigfoot.com <-- ALWAYS use this address! It is 
my ONLY REAL address!

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