By Eduardo Gazalle Marco

Sumo wrestlers bulk up with a diet that is heavy in protein and rice. The traditional sumo stew, chanko nabe, is composed of fatty pork, cabbage, eggs and bean sprouts. Wrestlers gorge themselves after morning practice, followed with a nap (to ensure slow digestion) and then again at dinner.

Most elite wrestlers are highly trained athletes between 20 and 35 years old. They typically live together in residential and training complexes, called "stables", where all aspects of life, from sleeping and eating to training and free time, are strictly regimented by the coach, called the "stable master".

Sumo wrestling is part religious ritual, part popular entertainment, and Japan's most unique contribution to the world of sport. Though sumo has long fascinated the West, its complex system of rituals and etiquette has made it difficult for outsiders to penetrate.

Hence this lack of exposure on the subject, sparked my curiosity and drive to attain the privilege of entering their private world and capture these exquisite examples of discipline and strength...

Eduardo Gazalle Marco is a Brazilian photographer based in Madrid.