The XQ Sumimasen Podcast

Building muscle in Japan can be more challenging than many people expect. Gym memberships can be expensive, supplements often cost more than they do overseas, and some of the foods that bodybuilders rely on back home either aren't widely available or come with a much higher price tag. In this episode, we talked about the approach I've developed after years of lifting in Japan while trying to keep costs as low as possible. Watch the Full Episode Listen on: Spotify Apple YouTube Staying Fit Without Spending a Fortune One of the biggest surprises after moving to Japan was how expensive some parts of fitness could be. Commercial gyms, imported supplements, and high-protein foods can quickly add up. That doesn't mean getting in shape has to be expensive, though. Japan also has excellent public...

Body image is shaped by more than just mirrors. The people around us, the media we grow up with, and even the cost of staying fit all influence how we see ourselves. In this episode, we compared some of the biggest differences we’ve experienced between Japan and the United States, from beauty standards and fitness culture to the way muscular men are perceived in each country. Watch the Full Episode Listen on: Spotify Apple YouTube The Cost of Staying Fit in Japan One of the biggest surprises for many people is how expensive fitness can be in Japan. Gym memberships, supplements, and high-protein foods often cost significantly more than they do in countries like the United States. Those higher costs can make fitness feel less accessible and may influence who is able to pursue it as a serious hobby or l...