The Importance of Norms in Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestling is a sport with few rules but many norms. While there are specific techniques that are not allowed, such as pulling hair or hitting with a closed fist, there are also unstated norms that guide the behavior of participants. One example is the frowned upon practice of using a move called a 'henka', where a wrestler quickly moves out of the way to let their opponent pass and push them out of the ring. This technique, while legal, goes against the cultural norm of fair competition and is often avoided at the highest level of sumo wrestling.