We regret to write that Prof. Mitsumasa Miyashita, a beloved pioneer of biomechanics in Japan and an avid supporter of the International Society of Biomechanics (ISB), passed away on January 3, 2025, at the age of 88.
Born in Nagano, Japan, in 1936, Prof. Miyashita pursued his education at the University of Tokyo, where he graduated from the Department of Physical Education and Health Education in the Faculty of Education. As an undergraduate, he was an active member of the University of Tokyo’s swimming club, competing in freestyle and water polo. His deep passion for swimming led him to coach the club as a graduate student.
In 1967, he became the first person in Japan to earn a PhD in physical education, completing his dissertation, “Kinesiology of Swimming.” His pioneering study involved electromyographic analyses of underwater swimming movements, identifying the muscle activities responsible for propulsion. Following his PhD, he joined the Center for Health and Physical Education at Nagoya University, where he and his colleagues made history as the first Japanese researchers to present at an ISB conference at University Park, Pennsylvania, in 1973.
In 1974, Prof. Miyashita returned to the University of Tokyo as a professor in the Faculty of Education and Graduate School of Education. His commitment to biomechanics extended to mentoring graduate students, encouraging them to present their research internationally. He recognized the importance of making scientific findings accessible beyond biomechanics, advising his students to test their research clarity on individuals unfamiliar with the field, including sports coaches.
Prof. Miyashita was a visionary educator, advocating for scientific approaches to physical education. His influential book, “What is Physical Education?” highlighted the necessity of scientific knowledge in physical education. He systematically analyzed training methodologies, tailoring them for different age groups—from children to adults—based on empirical data. His work in “Science of Sports Skills” remains a foundation for Japanese sports leaders in coaching methodologies.
Throughout his career, Prof. Miyashita held several prestigious academic positions in Japan, including Professor Emeritus at the University of Tokyo, Professor at Toyo Eiwa University, and Professor at the Open University of Japan. He also played pivotal roles in professional societies, serving as Director of the Japan Society of Physical Education, President of the Japan Swimming Federation, and Honorary Member of the Japanese Society of Biomechanics.
Beyond academia, he was a prolific author and editor, publishing approximately 30 books on training methodologies, sports science, and physical fitness. Some of his notable works include Scientific Bases of Training, Swimming Science: Kinesiology and Its Applications to Coaching, Women’s Sports Physiology, Medical Walking, Medical Nordic Walking, and Walking to Protect Brain Function.
Prof. Miyashita’s research legacy extends beyond the academic sphere. His studies on sports biomechanics and training emphasized muscle activities in sports movements, forming the basis for many coaching strategies in Japan. Even after retirement, he continued publishing, with his posthumous article, “What is ‘Good Muscle’? Evaluation of Skeletal Muscle Function from Various Aspects,” reflecting his lifelong passion for human movement.
He was also deeply invested in public health and citizen sports, believing that physical activity should transcend competition. As the first President of the Japan Fitness Association and Chairman of the Japan Citizen Sports Federation, he advocated a philosophy that echoes his impact in biomechanics: “Our goal is to promote the health of people around the world who participate in citizen sports, where there is no winning or losing, and to deepen friendships among participants and contribute to world peace.”
By the time he retired from the University of Tokyo, more than 30 graduate students had earned their PhDs under his guidance. He was not just a mentor but a lifelong supporter of his students’ success, fostering international collaborations and expanding Japan’s presence in biomechanics.
One of the most memorable moments of his career was his final lecture, “What I Have Done for the Last 60 Years,” delivered at the 50th Anniversary ISB Congress in Fukuoka in 2023. His closing words—“Which path have I taken? Research, swimming, or fishing?”—perfectly reflected his versatile, passionate, and energetic approach to life.
As Honorary Chairman of the “Walk Until 100 Years Old” Club, he actively participated in community walks well into his 80s, promoting lifelong fitness. Sadly, Prof. Miyashita could not walk for 100 years, but his footprints in biomechanics and humanity will endure for generations.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. May his soul rest in peace.
Yuichi Hirano
Todd Pataky
Hiro Nunome
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