A historical Study on the Revision of the Rules of Track and Field Events in Japan

Abstract

The remarkable records set in track and field events in Japan in recent years have been brought about by the improvement of training methods as well as those of athletic goods and facilities. However, by examining historical development of track and field events in Japan, the author have reached the conclusion that the development is also closely connected with the rules of the events. The followings are the main points: 1)In 1913 (the 2nd year of Tight), the rules of track and field events were put into practice for the first time in Japan. 2)In the Media era (1868-1911), athletes could not make any protest against the decision given by judges. The rules were based on the judges' standpoint. 3)During the Tight era (1912-1925), with a growing interest in the record and with the progress of judging techniques, the rules came to gradually be revised and improved to attach more importance to the athletes' standpoint. 4)The Show era (1926-) is characterized by the revision of rules with the aim of laying greater emphasis on such material aspects as instruments and equipment of the events than on such human aspects as athletes and judges.