But while he greeted me with a smile and politeness, I felt like, 'What a nice young man,' and for a moment, I doubted if it was our first meeting? It felt like we had met somewhere before. I remember we talked for about two hours.
Mr. Itani said he likes sturdy things and things with character, and when I heard various stories, I found out he was a martial artist. (As expected, haha.)
What left an impression during that conversation was
Mr. Itani said, 'I had my career as an athlete cut short due to a serious injury, so I want to create a training gym now using my experiences!'
I said, 'Is that so! That's quite reckless!!'
Mr. Itani said, 'Yes. When I was in my third year of middle school, I weighed only 38 kg and trained with the sole desire to become stronger. I built this body and became able to do martial arts, but I got seriously injured during practice.'
I remember feeling indescribable when I saw Mr. Itani speaking so passionately.
The conversation continued.
Mr. Itani said, 'I want to train and teach in my favorite sweatpants and T-shirt, just like Sylvester Stallone running in sweatpants in the Rocky movie!'
I said, 'That sounds great, I hope we can make it someday!'
Of course, I've watched the movie Rocky many times as well. Haha.
So it immediately sparked my imagination, and the conversation became even more lively.
The T-shirt purchased at that time is still being worn.
Ten years have passed since then, and the collaboration T-shirt with Mr. Itani has been completed!
The illustration of the judo throwing technique on the printed part was drawn by Mr. Itani himself.
Mr. Itani has even published a training book. It's quite easy to understand and has interesting content. Recently, we've been in a state of anxiety, but I feel like it contains hints that could be useful during such times. Our working styles may change from now on, and I think we will spend more time at home. That's why I think it's great to wear comfortable and relaxing clothes while working and doing strength training!
