NHK Hall, where the selection of "Calisthenics for Everyone" was announced to the public on October 9, 1999. A gala ceremony was held in the presence of the President of NHK , K. Ebisawa, the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, E. Yashiro, Prime Minister K. Obuchi, and Chairman of the Economic Strategy Council, H. Higuchi (from right to left).

"Calisthenics for Everyone" comes in two versions: One is for standing and the other for sitting. It is designed to encourage everyone, whether office workers or those in wheel-chairs or even bed-ridden, to engage in physical exercise, regardless of the time or place, or whether they are standing or sitting. It is an ideal calisthenics regime for an aging society.

"Calisthenics for Everyone" Made Its Broadcast Debut on October 10, Health and Sports Day
To mark the UN Year of the elderly this year, NHK and the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications have prepared a third edition of the calisthenics series. It follows in the steps of Radio Calisthenics 1 (for the general population) and Radio Calisthenics 2 (for the workplace), both of which enjoy a wide nationwide following. Called "Calisthenics for Everyone," the newest version was first broadcast on both radio and television on October 10.
Just like China's "chi chuan," radio and TV calisthenics has become part of the daily routine of many Japanese throughout the country. Group morning radio calisthenics is a common sight in many local communities. Such gatherings provide a fine opportunity for neighbors to get to know each other even better. NHK's radio calisthenics has long served all these purposes and more, including the improvement of health, promotion of wholesome daily rhythms in our life, and friendly exchanges between colleagues and neighbors.

"Calisthenics for Standing, Sitting and Even Those in Wheel-chairs"
The first two editions of the modern Radio Calisthenics series were introduced 45 years ago and have taken firm root among the Japanese people. The Japanese population structure is now aging at an unprecedented rate. It is estimated that, in the year 2015, one in every four Japanese will be aged 65 or older. This has been raising concern that the tempo of the existing calisthenics series might be a little too fast and the routine too vigorous, as it includes even jumping. The two older versions of Radio Calisthenics consist of 13 exercises and take 3 minutes 15 seconds from start to finish. In tests, the pulse rate typically reaches around 140. In view of this, NHK and the Post Office Life Insurance Bureau of the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications decided to develop jointly a new calisthenics regime more suited to a society of all age bands. The new version has a slower tempo, places a lesser burden on the heart, takes 4 minutes and 28 seconds, and can even be practiced whilst sitting.

The Important Role of Practical Broadcasts in Our Daily Lives
Radio calisthenics in Japan has an overall history of more than 70 years. It is hoped that the new third edition will be practiced widely throughout the country in the 21st century. The introduction of the third calisthenics series is a major event for NHK, which is proud of this series as a representative example of how a broadcasting service can contribute to the public interest in our fast-aging society.

"Calisthenics for Everyone" can be watched daily on NHK Educational TV from 6:30 to 6:40 a.m. and on NHK General TV from 2:50 to 3:00 p.m.

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