Io Shirai or Iyo Sky, is an extremely successful wrestler. She is a part of the WWE’s SmackDown brand. Shirai is a two-time Tag Team Champion, Women’s Champion, and Money In The Bank contract holder. WWE shared a video of Shirai in the ring on Instagram. They captioned it, “There’s no stopping #DamageCTRL.” How does she stay so fit? Read on to see 5 ways Io Shirai stays in shape and the photos that prove they work.
Wrestling is the main way Shirai stays in shape, and the sport has a lot of benefits. CarmelUSAWrestling.org states, “Wrestling demands a significant degree of focus and discipline, both physically and psychologically. It’s a sport that requires your undivided concentration and requires you to push through obstacles in order to emerge victorious. This disciplined and focus mindset developed on the mat transitions into regular life, making you more productive and effective in other areas of your life.”
Shirai spends a lot of time outside. She shared this set of photos on Instagram of herself in Lake Tahoe. According to UC Davis Health, going outside has a lot of benefits. “Being outdoors can also have relaxing effects on our minds. Nature can provide a mental break by allowing us to temporarily escape the demands of everyday life. It can also boost your creativity and problem-solving abilities. For example, if you’re having a mental block writing a paper or can’t seem to solve a problem at work, step outside for a breath of fresh air. Take an easy walk around your neighborhood or office, and you just might find the answers you were looking for.”
Shirai is extremely motivated. She shared what motivates her in an interview with Sports Illustrated. “Everything I do is for our passionate fans. They motivate me to be the best performer I can be, and I always want to give them the best match possible when I am in the ring. It is more than just wins or losses for me. I always want to find ways to entertain and excite them whenever I am competing so they can leave with a memory that lasts a lifetime.
Shirai is all about pushing herself. She told Sports Illustrated that this was why she came to America to wrestle. “A few years ago, many people started saying I was one of the best wrestlers in the world. I was competing in Japan and had received every award and accolade possible for a female in the industry. That was when I really started thinking about competing and proving myself on WWE’s global stage, which is the biggest in our profession.
Shirai feeds off of other wrestlers, like Rhea Ripley. “The great thing about Rhea is that our in-ring styles are so different that it almost feels like a chemical reaction every time we get in the ring together,” she told Sports Illustrated. “She raises my game and is able to push me to limits I did not know I was capable of. I am excited to think about all the possibilities when we face off this Sunday.”