A simple Japanese routine that boosts focus, energy, and team climate
In many Japanese companies, the workday starts—or sometimes pauses—with Radio Taisō Daiichi.
A short, standardized movement routine that has been part of everyday working life in Japan for decades.
I experienced Radio Taisō myself while working in Japan.
In my office, it usually took place in the afternoon. Participation was voluntary—no pressure, no obligation. Anyone who had time or felt like joining could simply stand up and move along.
What struck me every time:
It worked.
Not as “fitness”, but as a reset.
What makes Radio Taisō so effective?
Radio Taisō is deliberately simple:
- light movements
- no equipment
- no sweating
- suitable for business attire
- done in just three minutes
Yet the effect is noticeable. After the routine, people are more alert, more present, and noticeably more energized. From an office wellbeing perspective, it combines three important elements:
- physical activation after long periods of sitting
- mental reset through rhythm and movement
- low barrier participation, even for people who do not enjoy sports
Radio Taisō and Japanese work culture
Radio Taisō also reflects a deeper aspect of Japanese management culture. It is not about performance or competition. It is about:
- taking care of the body as a work tool
- creating a shared rhythm
- signaling that wellbeing is part of everyday work, not an extra benefit
Even when participation is voluntary, the collective moment matters. Moving together—even briefly—creates connection without words.
How can we use Radio Taisō outside Japan?
You do not need to “do it the Japanese way” to benefit from it. Radio Taisō works particularly well:
- in the home office as a short energy boost between tasks
- before or after long meetings
- as a light break in trainings or workshops
I regularly use Radio Taisō in my own seminars as an energizer. The effect is immediate: people smile, tension drops, attention comes back. Importantly, it does not feel awkward or childish—because the movements are functional, neutral, and short.
A simple wellbeing habit with management value
From a leadership and management perspective, Radio Taisō shows that:
- wellbeing does not need complex programs
- small, repeatable habits can have a strong impact
- movement can support focus, collaboration, and work climate
Sometimes, three minutes are enough.
Below, you’ll find two example videos:
- one showing Radio Taisō practiced in an office setting
- one version with music that invites you to join in
Try it once—ideally with your team.
Want to see Radio Taisō in action?
Radio Taiso in an office setting
Radio Taiso join-in version with music
Try Radio Taisō – a 3-minute work reset
Below you’ll find a printable, scrollable overview of the Radio Taisō routine.
You can view it directly, download it as a PDF, or print it for your office or team.
Try it once – ideally together with others.
A small habit with a noticeable effect
Radio Taisō is not about fitness or performance.
It is about creating a short, shared moment of movement and reset.Sometimes, three minutes are enough.
