Heya (sumo)

Heya is the Japanese term for a sumo wrestling stable. It refers to the living and training quarters for professional sumo wrestlers, as well as the organizational unit they belong to.

A heya is typically headed by a oyakata (stablemaster), a former sumo wrestler who has earned the right to train and manage wrestlers. The oyakata is responsible for all aspects of the heya, including recruiting, training, and managing the wrestlers' careers.

Wrestlers within a heya live a communal lifestyle, following a strict daily routine that revolves around training, eating, and sleeping. The heya provides all the necessities for the wrestlers, including food, lodging, and training equipment.

The heya system is a fundamental part of sumo culture and plays a crucial role in the development and success of sumo wrestlers. Wrestlers are expected to dedicate themselves to their heya and its oyakata, striving to improve their skills and contribute to the heya's overall reputation. Different heya have distinct training styles and philosophies, and the choice of heya can significantly impact a wrestler's career trajectory.