Fitness content generates high viewership regardless of language, and Japanese influencers have also created numerous videos with millions of views.
The type of fitness content produced by Japanese influencers often varies by gender. Men typically focus on muscle training, while women tend to create content centered on fitness and dieting.
Japanese fitness videos are often pop-inspired and rhythmical, designed to make viewers want to join in on the training or dieting journey.
Here, we introduce Japanese influencers who create such engaging fitness content. We have selected a total of 20 influencers, both men and women, from popular platforms.
“Protan Diary” is a YouTube channel offering diverse content centered on fitness and food challenges. As of November 2024, it has approximately 2.1 million subscribers. His videos range from practical strength training advice to humorous food challenges, entertaining a wide audience.
One particularly well-received video is “Arcade!! Crushing the Arm Wrestling Machine with Full Power!!,” which, 8 years and 5 months after its release, has exceeded 24.41 million views, showcasing his popularity. In this video, Protan takes on an arcade arm wrestling machine, displaying his impressive strength. Viewer comments include, “Watching him take on this challenge so joyfully uplifted me!” and “The balance between muscle strength and humor is amazing.”
Another popular video, “Playing in Swimsuits with My Sister at the Beach: A Situation Beyond Expectations Caused Panic LOL,” has garnered over 8.67 million views. It shares a relaxed moment at the beach with his sister, emphasizing family bonds and naturalness, resonating with viewers. Comments include, “The closeness with his family is heartwarming,” and “I love how natural Protan is.”
A major reason for Protan’s appeal is his approachable and relatable personality. Although topics like fitness and food challenges might seem specialized, Protan includes his experiences and mistakes to create content that connects with his audience. For example, in “During My Final Stages of Dieting, I Ate 3 Bowls of Rice, Curry, Daifuku, and Pancakes – Pure Happiness LOL,” he humorously depicts dieting struggles and cravings, earning empathy. Comments include, “I totally relate as I’m dieting too,” and “Watching him eat so happily cheered me up.”
Protan also actively collaborates with other prominent figures and YouTubers. For instance, in a video featuring RIZIN champion Kyoji Horiguchi, he reveals a new side of himself through his interaction with a professional fighter. Viewers responded, “This unique combination was so refreshing,” and “You can see Protan’s determination.”
Rey Yamasawa is a creator who has brought fresh air to the fitness industry through his YouTube channel “Rey Yamasawa Muscle Channel.” As of November 2024, his channel has around 1.02 million subscribers and enjoys significant viewer support. His videos cover a broad range of topics, including effective strength training methods, nutritional management, and firsthand experiences from competitions.
One standout video is “Shoulder Workout That Really Works! 3 Minutes, 6 Dumbbell Exercises,” which has over 1.7 million views after 3 years and 6 months. This video introduces six efficient exercises for building shoulder muscles in a short time, catering to beginners and advanced fitness enthusiasts alike. Comments include, “An efficient way to build muscle in a short time,” and “Clear explanations make it easy to follow.”
Another popular video, “Challenging My Best Muscles Yet: The Results of the Physique Competition!?” has over 450,000 views. The video documents his preparation for a physique competition in a documentary format, highlighting training, diet management, and mental efforts. Comments include, “You can feel the effort, and it’s inspiring,” and “It motivates me to try harder.”
Rey’s videos resonate with audiences due to his personable and approachable demeanor. While fitness and dieting can seem specialized, Rey offers clear, accessible explanations based on his experiences and knowledge. He also prioritizes interaction with viewers, engaging through comments and live streams, fostering a closer connection with his audience.
Yoshinori Yamamoto, known as the “Muscle Doctor,” is a bodybuilder with world championship wins who has coached numerous top athletes, including Major League players. His official YouTube channel, “VALX Yoshinori Yamamoto Muscle Training University,” has approximately 730,000 subscribers and over 1,600 videos as of November 2024.
The channel covers a wide array of topics such as dieting, strength training, nutrition, and more. Its audience spans athletes, gym enthusiasts, dieters, and health-conscious individuals, all benefiting from Yamamoto’s practical advice based on his expertise and experience.
One popular video, “Push-Ups That Actually Build Bigger Muscles Than Bench Press! Three Effective Methods for Chest Training,” has surpassed 2.7 million views four years after its release. This video explains why push-ups can be more effective than the bench press and introduces three specific training methods. Comments include, “I’m glad to learn effective home training methods,” and “Easy-to-understand explanations helped me try them out.”
Another highly rated video, “Burning Stubborn Waist Fat: The Best Training for Slimming Your Belly!” has over 2.2 million views three years post-release. It offers detailed advice on exercises targeting waist fat, with comments like, “Very helpful advice,” and “This raised my motivation.”
Saiyaman is a unique YouTuber in Japan’s fitness scene. As of November 2024, his channel “Saiyaman OverWork” boasts about 500,000 subscribers. His videos range from practical strength training advice to humorous challenge content, captivating his audience.
One well-received video is “Pushed Myself to the Limit in a Workout I Hated: Saiyaman OverWork,” where Saiyaman tackles an intense training regimen, presenting the process and results. Comments include, “This made me want to try harder,” and “I learned the importance of pushing boundaries.”
Another noteworthy video, “A New Challenger Announced! Saiyaman with Koji Goto,” features Saiyaman being coached by professional bodybuilder Koji Goto. The video earned responses like, “A rare opportunity to see expert guidance,” and “I want to incorporate these tips into my own routine.”
“JIN’S LIFE” is a YouTube channel blending fitness and lifestyle perspectives. With over 100,000 subscribers, the channel continues to grow steadily. JIN shares his expertise in strength training and nutrition management in ways that are easy to apply to daily life.
One popular video, “10 Full-Body Home Workouts,” has over 500,000 views six months after release. It demonstrates effective exercises that require no equipment and can be done at home. Comments include, “Straightforward and easy to follow,” and “It made home workouts enjoyable.”
Another hit, “A Weekly Meal Plan to Lose Body Fat,” has exceeded 300,000 views. It details short-term meal plans and nutritional balance for effective fat loss, earning feedback such as, “The detailed menus were very helpful,” and “This looks manageable and sustainable.”
JIN’s channel is popular due to his friendly personality and practical advice. He explains concepts in simple, understandable language, avoiding overly technical terms. His engagement in the comments section and thoughtful responses to viewer questions further enhance his connection with his audience.
Marina Takewaki is known as a groundbreaking figure in Japan’s fitness scene. Her YouTube channel, “Marina Takewaki,” has reached approximately 4.11 million subscribers as of November 2024, with total views exceeding 1.5541 billion. These impressive numbers highlight her influence and popularity.
Her videos are centered around easy-to-do exercises and dances at home, designed to help viewers enjoy working out consistently. One of her most popular videos is “[Aerobic & Full-Body Workout] The Latest 10-Minute Weight Loss Dance with 10 Million Views!” which amassed about 310,000 views in just one month after its release.
Viewers have commented, “A quick and effective way to sweat,” and “It’s so much fun to continue,” praising how her exercises can be easily integrated into daily life.
Additionally, Marina shares real-life experiences through her videos, offering highly practical information for her audience. For example, advice on meal plans during weight loss, workout tips, and ways to maintain motivation have garnered significant support. Comments include, “It was helpful since I had similar struggles,” and “Her specific advice is invaluable.”
Yuuka Sagawa stands out as a unique influencer in Japan’s fitness world, proposing healthy lifestyles through her YouTube channel, “Yuuka Sagawa.” As of November 2024, her channel has surpassed 2 million subscribers with total views exceeding 300 million.
Her videos focus on simple at-home exercises and stretches, catering to a broad audience from beginners to advanced fitness enthusiasts. One of her most popular videos, “[8 Minutes] Beautiful Back & Posture Training! Standing Back Exercises,” has exceeded 54 million views three years post-release.
Viewers have shared comments such as, “An effective way to strengthen your back in a short time,” and “Clear and easy-to-follow explanations,” appreciating how her exercises can seamlessly fit into their daily lives.
Yuuka also shares real-life experiences and valuable insights through her videos, providing practical advice for viewers. For instance, her tips on meal plans during weight loss, workout modifications, and maintaining motivation have been widely appreciated. Comments include, “It was relatable since I had similar concerns,” and “Her detailed advice is incredibly helpful.”
Ami Ishii is a Japanese fitness influencer known for her diverse content on YouTube. Her channel, “Ami Ishii,” surpassed 500,000 subscribers in 2023 and continues to garner widespread support.
Ami’s videos feature a wide range of lifestyle content, including healthy dieting, beauty, fashion, travel, and vlogs. Fitness-related videos, such as “Leg Slimming Pilates” and “My One Day of Eating Without Gaining Weight,” are particularly well-received, often surpassing hundreds of thousands of views.
Additionally, Ami deepens viewer engagement by candidly sharing her experiences and daily life. Her travel vlogs with family and product reviews showcase her private side, fostering a sense of closeness with her audience. This relatability helps viewers feel more connected to her.
Reiko McNish Sato is a Japanese fitness influencer creating diverse content on YouTube. Her channel, “Reiko McNish Sato,” had over 207,000 subscribers and 25,389,767 total views as of August 2024.
Her videos cover fitness, dieting, beauty, and lifestyle topics. Short, effective exercises and easy-to-adopt healthy eating habits are particularly praised. Popular videos include “10-Minute At-Home Abdominal Training” and “Feel Results in a Week! Easy Diet Recipes,” each with hundreds of thousands of views.
Reiko also shares glimpses of her private life, including travel vlogs and shopping hauls, which help bridge the gap between her and her audience, fostering a sense of familiarity and connection.
Moreover, Reiko has launched her own brand, “AMATERAS,” designing and selling nightwear and loungewear. Through her multifaceted activities, her influence continues to grow.
Mio GYM (Mio) is a Japanese fitness influencer actively sharing a variety of content on YouTube. As of November 2024, her channel, “Mio GYM,” has around 100,000 subscribers and a total of 10 million views.
Mio’s videos primarily feature home-friendly exercises and short, effective workouts. One standout video, “[6MIN] Total Body Workout: Mio GYM’s 10 Most Popular Exercises! Hawaii Edition,” has received high praise from viewers.
This video stands out for its efficient total-body workout and stunning Hawaiian scenery. Viewer comments include, “You can work up a sweat in a short time,” and “The beautiful Hawaiian backdrop makes exercising so refreshing.”
Comments highlight Mio’s bright personality and clear instruction, earning accolades like, “Her videos inspire me to work harder,” and “The explanations are straightforward and very helpful,” emphasizing her significant impact.
@hironori_nakajima
Known as the “Megane ga Ochinai Trainer” (Trainer Whose Glasses Don’t Fall) on TikTok, Hironori Nakajima blends unique training methods with humor, gaining the support of many viewers. As of November 2024, his account boasts approximately 759,300 followers and over 40.3 million likes.
Nakajima’s videos focus on explosive strength training and exercises useful in daily life. One standout video featuring single-leg broad jumps earned over 140,000 likes, garnering astonishment and praise from viewers.
One of the reasons his content stands out is the fusion of expert knowledge and humor. His tagline, “glasses don’t fall,” symbolizes his stability and focus during workouts, leaving a strong impression on viewers. Comments such as, “It makes me want to try harder,” and “Clear and detailed explanations are so helpful,” reflect the strong connection he builds with his audience.
In addition, Nakajima operates a traveling personal gym, “CUELPO,” where he conducts training and diet seminars across various locations. This expands his influence beyond TikTok into real-life interactions.
@real.baki.kyo
Known on TikTok as “Real Baki KYO,” this fitness influencer shares information about strength training and dieting. His account has 213,300 followers and 43 million likes.
His content primarily features at-home strength training and diet methods. Specific videos, such as techniques for lat pulldowns or tips on using coffee to enhance physical performance, provide practical and effective advice, earning the approval of many viewers.
What makes his videos particularly engaging is his clear and detailed guidance, as well as his active communication with viewers. His willingness to thoroughly answer questions and introduce easy-to-incorporate exercises fosters a sense of connection and understanding among his audience.
Moreover, he is officially recognized as “Real Baki” by Akita Shoten, adding a unique character to his content.
Videos involving his family or interactions with his children further showcase his approachable and human side, which has been warmly received by viewers.
@taise__i8888
Harapeko Mach is a fitness enthusiast on TikTok with approximately 189,200 followers and 2.9 million likes. Focusing on the theme, “The Journey to Becoming a Champion 🌏,” he delivers unique content blending strength training with a healthy lifestyle. His videos are practical and humorous, resonating with a broad audience.
A particularly notable video, “A Day in Taichan’s Food Journey,” showcases his daily meals from breakfast to dinner, explaining how he manages his diet to achieve fitness goals. The video received 207,700 likes and 2,712 comments, reflecting its significant impact. Comments like, “This is so helpful,” and “I want to try this too,” highlight how practical and engaging his content is for viewers.
Harapeko Mach’s approachable personality also attracts many fans. His relatable character and sincere attitude provide a sense of comfort and connection, making his content unique. This inspires viewers to say, “I feel motivated to try harder too.”
Beyond TikTok, his influence extends to his appearances on the YouTube channel “Protan Diary,” where he shares workout videos and health tips. Comments such as, “I really respect you,” and “I’ll keep cheering for you,” demonstrate the trust and admiration he earns from his audience.
@tatsu_656
Operating out of Osaka, Baki @ Kintore is a fitness influencer on TikTok focusing on “Muscle Education for Men.” As of November 2024, his account has 32,600 followers and 361,700 likes, with his influence steadily growing.
His content highlights simple at-home workout routines. These include equipment-free exercises and short, effective routines designed for busy individuals or those unable to visit a gym. Videos covering exercises for the abs and core, as well as training for specific areas like the lower abdomen, are paired with bright music and detailed text explanations to ensure accessibility.
One particularly popular video, “The Best 5 Ab Exercises!” has been viewed 82,300 times, reflecting high viewer interest. The video details five effective exercises for the abs, with clear instructions and tips. Comments like, “I’ll start this today,” and “The detailed explanations are so helpful,” show how these videos inspire viewers to take action.
Baki @ Kintore’s content is designed for immediate implementation. His short, no-equipment routines enable viewers to incorporate workouts into their daily lives easily. Comments such as, “This seems manageable,” and “I love that it’s something I can do at home,” demonstrate the positive impact of his approach.
Additionally, his videos are visually engaging, featuring cheerful music and clear text, which enhance comprehension. Feedback such as, “The explanations are thorough and easy to understand,” and “The music boosts my motivation,” highlight the effectiveness of his presentation.
@arthurnormanwayn
Nurseke Fitness Fans is a popular TikTok influencer specializing in fitness content. As of November 2024, his account has 944,000 followers and 13.4 million likes, with his influence continuing to grow.
His posts focus on strength training and bodybuilding. Sharing high-quality footage of his workouts and competition performances, he provides an authentic fitness experience for his audience. For instance, a video titled “[High Quality] Nurseke’s Physique Free Pose at Korea Contest” highlights his on-stage performance, earning significant praise from viewers.
His posts often receive numerous comments, such as, “Amazing performance!” and “Your effort is truly inspiring.” These reactions illustrate his ability to impact and connect with a wide audience.
Beyond TikTok, he also shares fitness content on his YouTube channel, “Nurseke Fitness.” By leveraging multiple platforms, he reaches a broader audience, further expanding his influence.
@aya_fitness
AYA is a popular fitness influencer on TikTok, focusing on fitness-specific content. As of November 2024, her account has 31,400 followers and 244,300 likes, and her influence continues to grow daily.
Her posts primarily feature a variety of training scenes, including CrossFit and marathon activities. She provides an authentic fitness experience by sharing high-quality videos of her daily routines and competition appearances. For instance, in the video titled “New Balance Workout Event🔥🔥 It was amazing to share such a passionate time with everyone 💪🏼💪🏼‼️,” she vividly showcases the excitement of the training event, which has received high praise from viewers.
Her activities are not limited to TikTok; she also shares fitness-related content on Instagram and her YouTube channel, “AYA’s Functional LIFE.” By utilizing multiple platforms, she reaches a broader audience and amplifies her influence.
@yuukasagawa5483
Yuuka (Yuuka Sagawa) is a prominent fitness-focused influencer on TikTok. As of November 2024, her TikTok account has 6,835 followers and 10,600 likes, with her influence steadily growing.
Her posts primarily focus on exercises such as posture improvement, core training, and yoga. She offers high-quality content that provides viewers with practical, effective training methods easily incorporated into daily life. For example, in the video “3-Minute Core Plank to Sculpt Your Abs!” she introduces an advanced, effective workout routine that has received high praise from viewers.
One of the reasons her content stands out is her sincere attitude and passion for fitness. Viewers are inspired by her dedication and results, which motivate them to adopt a “let’s do our best too” mindset. Her videos are also visually engaging, with high-quality visuals and precise editing that make them enjoyable to watch.
Her posts frequently receive numerous comments from viewers, such as “Your performance is amazing!” and “I’m inspired by your hard work.” These reactions highlight her ability to influence and resonate with a broad audience.
@maiko_tanoue
Maiko Tanoue is a well-regarded fitness influencer on TikTok. As of November 2024, her TikTok account has approximately 4,500 followers and over 13,000 likes, showcasing her broad appeal. She particularly resonates with audiences by authentically portraying her daily life and training as a fitness bikini competitor.
Her posts often focus on her training routines, progress during competition prep, and lifestyle during recovery after competitions. One notable video, “Arnold Classic Europe 3rd place❤️ Prep is over‼️ Time to eat‼️,” captures her celebratory meal after rigorous training and dieting. This video conveys her sense of accomplishment and has garnered comments like “Great job!” and “I want to work hard like you!”
Her charm lies in not only showcasing her fitness achievements but also sharing the reality behind her daily life and efforts. Her videos thoughtfully depict the motivation and determination that sustain her intense training and eventual success. Viewers feel inspired to adopt similar habits and incorporate her tips into their lives. Additionally, her video editing and structure are well-crafted, making her content both easy to understand and enjoyable to learn from.
@yunkoro519
Yunkoro is a lifestyle influencer blending fitness and fashion on TikTok, gaining widespread attention for her unique content. As of November 2024, she has over 43,700 followers and 116,200 likes, demonstrating her significant reach. Her content primarily includes exercise videos, healthy lifestyle training scenes, and stylish posts featuring apparel from her own brand, “IRAL.”
One reason Yunkoro’s posts are highly appreciated is her advocacy for “fitness integrated into daily life.” She shares routines that are not only gym-based but also simple exercises that can be done at home or short routines with noticeable results. A standout video featuring abdominal training while wearing “IRAL” apparel has been viewed over 43,000 times, attracting followers who are inspired by the stylish yet practical approach. Comments like “This outfit boosts my motivation for fitness!” and “This seems so easy to do at home,” highlight how her proposals resonate with her audience.
Her editing and filming style are also distinctive. Yunkoro’s videos are visually polished, with clear depictions of apparel details and workout movements, allowing viewers to easily grasp the exercise forms. This combination of aesthetics and practicality differentiates her from other influencers, delivering a positive and enjoyable experience of fitness.
@___ayaka316
Ayaka is a personal trainer sharing diverse fitness content on TikTok. As of November 2024, she has 15,200 followers and 80,700 likes. Her posts center on effective training methods and promoting a healthy lifestyle, which have been highly praised by viewers.
One particularly popular video, with over 273,500 views, introduces a short exercise routine that delivers noticeable results. Comments like “I’ll keep up with this training!” and “Your clear explanations are so helpful,” reflect how her guidance positively influences her audience.
Ayaka’s posts often attract gratitude-filled comments such as “You motivate me daily,” and “Thanks to you, I’ve started living a healthier life.” These responses highlight the positive changes she inspires in her viewers. She is also active on Instagram, where she aligns her content with TikTok to further expand her reach and share the appeal of fitness with a broader audience.