For the 91st daily installment of Big Wheel Blading’s Inline Skating and Life During COVID-19 series we talk to Chihiro Azuma. Chihiro is a 24-year-old inline skater living in Okayama, Japan. She is a licensed Judo Therapist and teaches university level national qualifications for Judo Therapy.
What steps did Japan take to battle COVID-19 and how are things there now?
Japan declared a state of emergency on April 16th and put the entire country on lockdown. Because of the restrictions imposed by the government I was unable to skate for four weeks. The restrictions were lifted on May 14th and I was able to skate my home park again.
Are you doing any cross training?
I was thinking about doing muscle training that I could do at home.
Photos by Soichiro Kanashima
How has COVID-19 affected your normal everyday life?
Because of COVID-19 I am now working remotely from home, which is very inconvenient. Having to refrain from going out, other than shopping at the supermarket, stressed me out. The situation in Japan now seems to be gradually getting better. However, it has been reported that there is a high possibility that Japan will suffer a second wave of COVID-19 infections. This is why the Japanese people believe it is necessary to have a high level of awareness in regards to yourself and others.
What are your major concerns right now and looking into the future?
Looking forward, I think we need to review not only the hygiene aspect but also the way we practice skating. I want to skate with my friends while maintaining social distancing. I’m looking forward to skating with skaters from all over the world again when this pandemic passes!
Links
- Follow Chihiro Azuma on Instagram.
- Go to Inline Skating and Life During COVID-19 to read more interviews from skaters from around the world.
- Go to Essential Workers – Inline Skaters on the Front Lines of COVID-19 to read about inline skaters from around the world who are considered Essential Workers.
- For our full COVID-19 coverage go here.
- Contact Big Wheel Blading for any questions, suggestions, story ideas or to contribute content.
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