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健康器具

B1 noun #6,000 most common 11 min read

健康器具

kenkou kigu Top 6,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 健康器具 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 健康器具 in your Level:

健康器具 (Kenkō Kigu) is a word for things that help you stay healthy. 'Kenkō' means health. 'Kigu' means a tool or a machine. So, it is a 'health machine.' You use this word for things like a bicycle you ride inside your house or a machine that rubs your back. In Japan, many people like to buy these machines to exercise at home. If you go to a big store in Japan, you can find a place for 'Kenkō Kigu.' It is a simple noun. You can say 'Kenkō kigu wo kaimasu' (I buy health equipment). You don't need to worry about complex grammar with this word. Just remember it is for machines, not for balls or bats.

At the A2 level, you should recognize that 健康器具 (Kenkō Kigu) is a compound noun. It is made of two parts: 健康 (health) and 器具 (apparatus/tool). You will see this word often in shopping malls or on TV. It is used when talking about lifestyle and hobbies. For example, 'Uchi ni wa kenkō kigu ga arimasu' (There is health equipment in my house). You can use it with the particle 'で' (de) to show what you use to exercise: 'Kenkō kigu de undou shimasu.' It's also useful to know that Japanese people often buy these but don't use them much, which is a common topic of conversation! Try to use it when talking about your daily routine or things you want to buy.

For B1 learners, 健康器具 (Kenkō Kigu) is an important term for discussing health, wellness, and consumer culture in Japan. You should understand the distinction between this and 'sports goods' (スポーツ用品). 'Kenkō kigu' usually refers to stationary devices intended for health maintenance or physical therapy. It is a common topic in 'Terebi Tsuuhan' (TV shopping), which is a great way to practice listening. You can use the word in more complex structures, such as 'Kenkō kigu wo erabu sai no chuuiten' (Points to note when choosing health equipment). It also appears in contexts like 'aging society' (koreika shakai) discussions, where such equipment is vital for the elderly to maintain their mobility.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 健康器具 (Kenkō Kigu) in formal and semi-formal discussions about public health, market trends, and workplace wellness. You should be able to distinguish it from '医療機器' (iryou kiki - medical devices), which are strictly regulated. Understand that 'kenkō kigu' can be used as a broad category in business, such as 'Kenkō kigu gyoukai' (the health equipment industry). You might also encounter it in legal or safety contexts, such as 'Kenkō kigu no anzen kijun' (safety standards for health equipment). Using this word correctly shows you understand the nuances of Japanese compound nouns and the specific cultural value placed on 'self-care' technology in Japan.

For C1 learners, 健康器具 (Kenkō Kigu) should be understood within the broader socio-economic landscape of Japan. This includes the 'Silver Market' and the regulatory frameworks like the 'Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act' (Yakki-hou), which dictates what health equipment can and cannot claim in advertisements. You should be able to discuss the evolution of these devices from simple mechanical tools to AI-integrated wellness systems. In a professional setting, you might use the term when analyzing consumer behavior or discussing corporate 'Health Management' (Kenkō Keiei) strategies. You should also be aware of synonymous but more specialized terms like 'Rihabiri-you kigu' (rehabilitation equipment) or 'Undou ryouhou kiki.'

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of 健康器具 (Kenkō Kigu). You can analyze its usage in various registers, from the hyperbolic language of infomercials to the precise, dry language of industrial standards or medical research. You understand the cultural 'baggage' of the term, including its association with the 1970s health boom and its role in modern urban living where space is at a premium. You can fluently discuss the philosophical shift in Japan from 'treating illness' to 'maintaining health' through the lens of the 'kenkō kigu' market. You are also capable of critiquing the efficacy of these devices in a nuanced way, using advanced vocabulary to describe physiological impacts and mechanical specifications.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

健康器具 in 30 Seconds

A general term for any machine or tool used for health and fitness.
Commonly seen in Japanese TV shopping, electronics stores, and home gyms.
Includes items for exercise, stretching, massage, and physical rehabilitation.
Distinguished from 'sports goods' like balls and 'medical devices' like ventilators.

The Japanese term 健康器具 (Kenkō Kigu) is a compound noun that combines two foundational concepts: 健康 (kenkō), meaning 'health,' and 器具 (kigu), meaning 'utensil,' 'apparatus,' or 'equipment.' When merged, they describe any physical device or machine designed specifically to improve, maintain, or monitor one's physical well-being. This term is incredibly versatile in Japanese society, covering everything from a simple hand-grip strengthener to a multi-million yen medical-grade treadmill. You will encounter this word most frequently in retail environments like Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera, where entire floors are often dedicated to 'Health and Beauty.' It is also a staple of Japanese late-night television, where infomercials (tsuuhan) promote the latest 'revolutionary' devices meant to trim waistlines or soothe aching backs without leaving the house.

Semantic Range: The term encompasses exercise machines (treadmills, stationary bikes), massage tools (electric massagers, foam rollers), and even diagnostic tools in some informal contexts, though 'medical equipment' (iryou kiki) is the formal term for the latter.
Cultural Nuance: In Japan's rapidly aging society, 'kenkō kigu' often carries a connotation of 'preventative care' (yobou kaigo). It is not just for bodybuilders; it is for the elderly looking to maintain leg strength or the office worker trying to fix their posture.

最近、運動不足を解消するために、新しい健康器具を買いました。(Recently, to resolve my lack of exercise, I bought a new piece of health equipment.)

Historically, the boom of 'kenkō kigu' in Japan can be traced back to the post-war era when the 'health craze' (kenkō buumu) began. As Japanese lifestyles became more sedentary and urbanized, the need for indoor exercise solutions grew. This led to the invention of uniquely Japanese devices like the 'Buragari Kenkouki' (hanging health bar), which became a household icon in the 1970s. Today, the term has evolved to include smart-tech integrated devices that sync with smartphones to track caloric burn and heart rate. When using this word, it is important to distinguish it from 'sports goods' (supoutsu youhin); while a tennis racket is sports gear, a stationary bike is a health apparatus.

父の日のプレゼントに、マッサージ用の健康器具を選んだ。(I chose a health apparatus for massaging as a Father's Day present.)

Context: Retail: In electronics stores, you will see signage for '健康器具コーナー' (Health Equipment Corner).

Furthermore, the word is frequently used in the context of 'fads.' Japan is famous for health trends where a specific type of 'kenkō kigu' (like a balance ball or a facial muscle trainer) will suddenly sell out across the country after being featured on a morning variety show. Therefore, the term often appears in news articles discussing market trends or consumer behavior. It suggests a proactive, albeit sometimes consumerist, approach to maintaining one's vitality.

この健康器具は使い方が簡単で、高齢者にも人気があります。(This health equipment is easy to use and is popular among the elderly as well.)

Using 健康器具 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun and the verbs that typically accompany it. Because it refers to a physical object, the most common verbs are 使う (tsukau - to use), 購入する (kounyuu suru - to purchase), and 試す (tamesu - to try out). In more formal settings, such as a product manual or a medical recommendation, you might see 使用する (shiyou suru - to utilize). It is crucial to remember that 'kenkō kigu' is a broad category; if you are talking about a specific machine like a treadmill, you might use the specific name, but if you are talking about your collection of home gym gear in general, 'kenkō kigu' is the perfect fit.

Verb Pairing: Purchase: 健康器具を買う (Buy health equipment) - Common, everyday Japanese.
Verb Pairing: Maintenance: 健康器具を手入れする (To maintain/clean health equipment).

通販で買った健康器具が、今では洗濯物干しになっている。(The health equipment I bought through mail order has now become a laundry drying rack.)

A very common cultural trope in Japan (as reflected in the example above) is the 'bought but never used' health equipment. Because many Japanese homes are small, buying a large piece of 'kenkō kigu' is a significant commitment. Consequently, the word often appears in conversations about New Year's resolutions or lifestyle changes, frequently with a touch of self-deprecating humor. When describing the benefits of a machine, you would use the pattern '[Machine] wa [Effect] ga aru' (This equipment has [effect]). For example, 'Kono kenkō kigu wa koshitsu kaizen ni kouka ga aru' (This health equipment is effective for improving lower back pain).

最新の健康器具を導入したジムが近所にオープンした。(A gym that introduced the latest health equipment opened in my neighborhood.)

In professional or medical contexts, such as a physical therapy clinic (sekkotsu-in), the staff might explain how to use 'kenkō kigu' safely. They might say, 'Kono kenkō kigu wo shiyou suru際は (sai wa), chuui-jikou wo yoku yonde kudasai' (When using this health equipment, please read the precautions carefully). This highlights the word's transition from casual home use to professional environments. Furthermore, the word can be used as a collective noun. If someone asks, 'Do you have any fitness gear?', you could respond, 'Hai, uchi ni wa ikutsu ka kenkō kigu ga arimasu' (Yes, I have several pieces of health equipment at home).

Sentence Pattern: Recommendation: [Target person] に [Specific equipment] という健康器具を勧める (To recommend a piece of health equipment called [X] to [Person]).

Finally, consider the descriptive power of the word. You can modify it with adjectives like 'koukana' (expensive), 'benrina' (convenient), or 'basho wo toru' (space-consuming). This allows for nuanced descriptions of the user's experience. For instance, 'Basho wo toranai kenkō kigu wo sagashiteiru' (I am looking for health equipment that doesn't take up much space) is a very common sentiment among apartment dwellers in Tokyo or Osaka.

The term 健康器具 is ubiquitous in Japanese daily life, but it resonates most strongly in specific 'zones' of society. Perhaps the most iconic 'natural habitat' for this word is the Japanese Terebi Tsuuhan (TV shopping). If you flip through channels late at night or during mid-afternoon, you will almost certainly see high-energy presenters demonstrating a new 'kenkō kigu' that promises to fix your posture or melt away fat. The language used here is often superlative: 'Kyouki no kenkō kigu!' (The health equipment of the century!).

テレビ番組で紹介されていた健康器具が、爆発的に売れているらしい。(The health equipment introduced on the TV program is apparently selling explosively.)

Another common place is the Kaden Ryouhanten (Big-box electronics stores). Stores like Yodobashi Camera, Bic Camera, and Yamada Denki have massive sections labeled '健康・理美容' (Health, Management, and Beauty). Here, 'kenkō kigu' is used to categorize everything from foot bath machines to body composition monitors. You will hear floor staff asking, 'Nanika o-sagashi no kenkō kigu wa gozaimasu ka?' (Is there any health equipment you are looking for?).

Public Spaces: In Japanese public parks, you often find 'stretching stations' or outdoor gym equipment. These are officially referred to as 'Kougai Kenkō Kigu' (Outdoor health equipment) and are popular with the 'Silver' generation (the elderly) during their morning walks.

In the workplace, particularly in companies that prioritize 'Health Management' (Kenkō Keiei), you might find a 'Refresh Room' equipped with 'kenkō kigu' like massage chairs or stretching mats. HR might send out an internal memo saying, 'Fukurikousei no ikkan toshite, atarashii kenkō kigu wo secchi shimashita' (As part of our employee benefits, we have installed new health equipment). This reflects the corporate culture's growing focus on employee wellness to combat the effects of long sitting hours.

市のリハビリセンターには、最新の健康器具が揃っている。(The city's rehabilitation center is equipped with all the latest health equipment.)

Lastly, you will hear this word in medical and geriatric care contexts. Doctors or physical therapists (PTs) might recommend specific 'kenkō kigu' for home use to aid in recovery or prevent muscle atrophy. In this context, the word takes on a more serious, functional tone compared to the 'lifestyle' tone of TV shopping. For example, 'Kono kenkō kigu wo mainichi go-fun tsukau dake de, kanketsu-sei hakko ga kaizen shimasu' (Just using this health equipment for five minutes every day will improve intermittent claudication).

While 健康器具 is a straightforward term, English speakers often make nuanced mistakes when translating 'exercise equipment' or 'gym gear' into Japanese. The first major pitfall is over-generalization. Not everything used for exercise is a 'kigu.' For instance, a soccer ball or a tennis racket is スポーツ用品 (supoutsu youhin - sports goods), not 'kenkō kigu.' The latter implies a mechanical or structural apparatus designed for a specific health-related function, usually stationary.

Mistake 1: Confusing with 'Medical Devices': Using 'kenkō kigu' for life-saving medical machines like ventilators. The correct term is 医療機器 (Iryou kiki).
Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Sports Wear': Thinking that gym clothes or yoga pants fall under this category. Those are スポーツウェア (supoutsu wea).

❌ サッカーボールは便利な健康器具です。
✅ サッカーボールは人気のあるスポーツ用品です。

Another common error is related to formality. In a professional medical report, simply saying 'kenkō kigu' might sound too casual or vague. Professionals prefer specific terms like 運動療法機器 (undou ryouhou kiki - exercise therapy equipment). Conversely, in a very casual setting, people might just say 'mashin' (machine) or 'aitemu' (item). Using 'kenkō kigu' in a conversation about heavy-duty powerlifting might also feel slightly off, as the word often leans toward 'wellness' and 'health maintenance' rather than 'extreme bodybuilding.'

The third mistake involves the kanji themselves. Learners sometimes confuse 器具 (kigu) with 道具 (dougu). While both mean 'tool,' dougu is much broader (including hammers, cooking spoons, etc.) and often implies a handheld tool used to perform a task. Kigu suggests a more specialized apparatus or instrument. Calling a treadmill a 'kenkō dougu' is technically understandable but sounds distinctly 'un-Japanese' and amateurish.

❌ 健康のために、この道具を使います。
✅ 健康のために、この健康器具を使います。

Lastly, pay attention to the particle usage. When saying 'I exercise using health equipment,' the particle で (de) is used for the means: 'Kenkō kigu de undou suru.' Some learners mistakenly use を (wo) as if they are 'doing' the equipment, which is incorrect. You 'use' (wo tsukau) the equipment, or you 'exercise with' (de undou suru) it.

To truly master the vocabulary surrounding health and fitness, you need to know where 健康器具 sits in relation to its synonyms. Depending on the context—be it a gym, a hospital, or a home—the 'correct' word changes. Below is a comparison of common alternatives.

トレーニング機器 (Training Kiki): More focused on 'training' and strength building. Used heavily in gym environments. While 'kenkō kigu' might include a foot massager, 'training kiki' definitely does not.
フィットネス用品 (Fitness Youhin): A broader term that includes clothing, yoga mats, and accessories. 'Kigu' is specifically the hardware; 'youhin' is the whole kit.
医療機器 (Iryou Kiki): Medical devices. This is a regulated term. Some high-end health equipment (like certain blood pressure monitors) are officially classified as 'medical devices' in Japan.

本格的な筋トレをしたいなら、健康器具よりもトレーニング機器を探すべきだ。(If you want to do serious strength training, you should look for training equipment rather than general health apparatus.)

Another interesting alternative is 健康グッズ (Kenkō Guzzu - Health Goods). This term is much more casual and often refers to smaller, cheaper items like massage balls, stretch bands, or even specialized pillows. If you are shopping at a 100-yen shop or a lifestyle store like Loft, you are more likely to see 'Kenkō Guzzu' than the more formal-sounding 'Kenkō Kigu.' 'Kigu' implies a certain level of mechanical complexity or substantiality that 'Guzzu' does not.

リハビリテーションには、専用の健康器具が必要です。(Specialized health equipment is necessary for rehabilitation.)

For those interested in the 'beauty' side of health, you will often see 美容機器 (Biyou Kiki - Beauty Equipment). In Japan, health and beauty are closely linked. A device that massages your face might be categorized as 'biyou kiki,' while a device that massages your calves to improve circulation might be 'kenkō kigu.' The line is often blurry, and many retailers group them together as '美容・健康器具.'

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The term 'Kigu' was traditionally used for ritual vessels in ancient China before evolving to mean general tools and apparatuses in modern Japanese.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ken.koː ki.ɡu/

US /ken.koʊ ki.ɡu/

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'Kenkō', the pitch starts low and rises on 'nko'. In 'Kigu', the pitch is typically flat or slightly drops.

Rhymes With

Shingu (Bedding) Dougu (Tool) Kagu (Furniture) Bougu (Protective gear) Amagu (Rain gear) Tsuri-gu (Fishing gear) Bun-gu (Stationery) Kou-gu (Tools/Hardware)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'kigu' as 'kaigu'.
Shortening the long 'o' in 'kenkō'.
Misplacing the stress on the first syllable like an English word.
Confusing the 'g' in 'kigu' with a 'k' sound.
Failing to pronounce the nasal 'n' in 'kenkō' clearly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The kanji are common but require B1 level knowledge to read fluently.

Writing 4/5

Writing 'Kigu' (器具) from memory can be tricky for intermediate learners.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once you master the long 'o'.

Listening 2/5

Very clear and distinct sounds, common in media.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

健康 (Health) 道具 (Tool) 運動 (Exercise) 使う (To use) 体 (Body)

Learn Next

医療機器 (Medical device) 筋肉 (Muscle) リハビリ (Rehabilitation) サプリメント (Supplement) 新陳代謝 (Metabolism)

Advanced

人間工学 (Ergonomics) 疫学調査 (Epidemiological survey) 意匠登録 (Design registration) 景品表示法 (Premiums and Representations Act)

Grammar to Know

Noun + 用 (you) for 'for the purpose of'

ダイエット用の健康器具 (Health equipment for dieting)

Verb Stem + 方 (kata) for 'how to'

健康器具の使い方がわからない。 (I don't know how to use the health equipment.)

Noun + に基づいて (ni motozuite) for 'based on'

科学的根拠に基づいた健康器具。 (Health equipment based on scientific evidence.)

Potential Form for 'can use'

誰でも簡単に使えます。 (Anyone can use it easily.)

Noun + に関する (ni kansuru) for 'regarding'

健康器具に関する調査。 (A survey regarding health equipment.)

Examples by Level

これは新しい健康器具です。

This is a new piece of health equipment.

Uses the basic 'A wa B desu' structure.

健康器具で運動します。

I exercise with health equipment.

The particle 'de' marks the means/tool.

母は健康器具が好きです。

My mother likes health equipment.

Uses 'ga suki' to express preference.

店に健康器具があります。

There is health equipment in the store.

Uses 'ga arimasu' for existence of inanimate objects.

安い健康器具を買いました。

I bought cheap health equipment.

Adjective 'yasui' modifies the noun.

その健康器具は重いです。

That health equipment is heavy.

'Omoi' is an i-adjective.

毎日、健康器具を使います。

I use health equipment every day.

'Mainichi' (every day) is an adverbial noun.

健康器具はどこですか？

Where is the health equipment?

Basic question structure 'wa doko desu ka?'

この健康器具は使い方が簡単です。

This health equipment is easy to use.

'-kata' means 'way of doing'.

父に健康器具をプレゼントしました。

I gave health equipment to my father as a present.

The particle 'ni' marks the recipient.

家が狭いので、小さい健康器具を選びました。

Since my house is small, I chose small health equipment.

'node' indicates a reason.

健康器具を使って、足を鍛えます。

I use health equipment to train my legs.

The te-form 'tsukatte' links actions.

テレビで便利な健康器具を見ました。

I saw a convenient piece of health equipment on TV.

Adjective 'benrina' is a na-adjective.

この健康器具はあまり高くありません。

This health equipment is not very expensive.

Negative form of i-adjective 'takai'.

健康器具を買ったけれど、一度も使っていません。

I bought health equipment, but I haven't used it even once.

'keredo' means 'but/although'.

どの健康器具が一番いいですか？

Which health equipment is the best?

Question word 'dono' means 'which'.

最近の健康器具は、スマホと連動しているものが多い。

Many recent health devices are linked with smartphones.

'-to rendou shite iru' means 'linked/synced with'.

腰痛を改善するために、この健康器具を勧められた。

I was recommended this health equipment to improve my lower back pain.

Passive voice 'susumerareta' (was recommended).

健康器具を購入する前に、口コミをチェックしたほうがいい。

You should check the reviews before purchasing health equipment.

'-ta hou ga ii' is used for advice.

この健康器具は場所を取るので、置き場所に困っている。

This health equipment takes up space, so I'm having trouble finding a place for it.

'basho wo toru' is an idiom for 'to take up space'.

中古の健康器具なら、安く手に入れることができます。

If it's second-hand health equipment, you can get it cheaply.

'nara' indicates a conditional 'if'.

健康器具の効果を最大限に引き出すには、継続が大切だ。

To get the most out of health equipment, consistency is key.

'-ni wa' expresses a requirement or purpose.

デパートの健康器具売り場は、いつも高齢者で賑わっている。

The health equipment section of the department store is always crowded with elderly people.

'de nigiwatte iru' means 'crowded with/bustling with'.

通販番組では、魅力的な健康器具が次々と紹介される。

On home shopping programs, attractive health equipment is introduced one after another.

'tsugitsugi to' means 'one after another'.

健康器具の市場は、コロナ禍での宅トレ需要により急拡大した。

The health equipment market expanded rapidly due to the demand for home workouts during the pandemic.

'ni yori' indicates a cause or reason.

粗悪な健康器具を使用すると、かえって体を痛める恐れがある。

Using poorly made health equipment may instead risk injuring your body.

'osore ga aru' means 'there is a fear/risk that'.

この健康器具は、科学的根拠に基づいて開発されています。

This health equipment is developed based on scientific evidence.

'-ni motozuite' means 'based on'.

自治体が公園に健康器具を設置し、市民の健康増進を図っている。

Local governments are installing health equipment in parks to promote the health of citizens.

'-wo hakaru' means 'to aim for/attempt'.

健康器具の広告には、過大な表現が含まれていることが多いので注意が必要だ。

Caution is necessary as advertisements for health equipment often contain exaggerated expressions.

'chuui ga hitsuyou' means 'caution is required'.

彼女は健康器具のマニアで、最新モデルはすべて試している。

She is a health equipment enthusiast and has tried all the latest models.

'mania' refers to an enthusiast or obsessive fan.

健康器具を廃棄する際は、自治体のゴミ出しルールを確認してください。

When disposing of health equipment, please check the local government's garbage disposal rules.

'-sai wa' is a formal way to say 'when'.

多機能な健康器具よりも、単機能で使い勝手の良いものの方が好まれる傾向にある。

There is a tendency to prefer simple, user-friendly items over multi-functional health equipment.

'-keikou ni aru' means 'to have a tendency to'.

健康器具の普及は、国民の健康意識の高まりを如実に反映している。

The spread of health equipment clearly reflects the rising health consciousness of the nation.

'nyojitsu ni' means 'vividly/clearly'.

意図しない怪我を防ぐため、健康器具には厳格な安全基準が課されている。

To prevent unintended injuries, strict safety standards are imposed on health equipment.

'-ga kasarete iru' means 'is imposed/levied'.

その企業は、AIを搭載した次世代型健康器具の開発に注力している。

That company is focusing its efforts on developing next-generation health equipment equipped with AI.

'-ni chuuryoku shite iru' means 'focusing efforts on'.

健康器具の過剰な期待は禁物だが、補助的な役割としては非常に有効である。

While excessive expectations for health equipment are a no-go, they are very effective in a supporting role.

'kinmotsu' means 'forbidden/taboo'.

高齢者のフレイル予防において、適切な健康器具の導入は極めて重要だ。

In preventing frailty in the elderly, the introduction of appropriate health equipment is extremely important.

'kiwamete' is a formal adverb for 'extremely'.

健康器具のサブスクリプションサービスが、都市部の若者の間で支持を集めている。

Subscription services for health equipment are gaining support among young people in urban areas.

'shiji wo atsumeru' means 'to gain support'.

景品表示法に抵触しないよう、健康器具の効能を謳う際は慎重を期すべきだ。

To avoid violating the Premiums and Representations Act, one should exercise caution when claiming the efficacy of health equipment.

'-ni teishoku suru' means 'to conflict with/violate (a law)'.

健康器具の設計において、人間工学に基づいたアプローチが不可欠となっている。

In the design of health equipment, an ergonomic approach has become indispensable.

'fukasetsu' means 'indispensable'.

健康器具の市場飽和が懸念される中、各メーカーは付加価値の創出に躍起になっている。

Amid concerns of market saturation for health equipment, manufacturers are desperate to create added value.

'yakki ni naru' means 'to be desperate/frantic'.

ウェアラブルデバイスと健康器具のシームレスな統合が、ウェルビーイングの新たな地平を切り拓く。

The seamless integration of wearable devices and health equipment opens up new horizons for well-being.

'chihei wo kirihiraku' is a metaphorical expression for 'opening new horizons'.

健康器具の利用実態に関する大規模な疫学調査が、公衆衛生政策の策定に寄与している。

Large-scale epidemiological surveys on the actual use of health equipment are contributing to the formulation of public health policies.

'-ni kiyo suru' means 'to contribute to'.

単なる運動補助に留まらず、精神的な充足感をもたらす健康器具の在り方が問われている。

Beyond mere exercise assistance, the nature of health equipment that also brings spiritual fulfillment is being questioned.

'-ni todomarazu' means 'not limited to'.

健康器具の歴史を紐解くと、それは科学技術の進展と社会の要請が交錯する場であったことがわかる。

Unraveling the history of health equipment reveals that it has been a place where technological progress and social demands intersect.

'himo-toku' means 'to unravel/examine closely'.

エビデンスの希薄な健康器具が跋扈する現状に対し、専門家からは警鐘が鳴らされている。

Experts are sounding the alarm against the current situation where health equipment with thin evidence is rampant.

'bakko suru' means 'to be rampant/dominate'.

健康器具の意匠権を巡る訴訟は、グローバル市場における競争の激化を象徴している。

Lawsuits over the design rights of health equipment symbolize the intensifying competition in the global market.

'-wo meguru' means 'concerning/surrounding'.

バイオフィードバック機能を備えた健康器具が、個人の身体能力の限界を押し広げる可能性を秘めている。

Health equipment equipped with biofeedback functions holds the potential to push the limits of individual physical abilities.

'kanousei wo himete iru' means 'to hold the potential'.

Synonyms

トレーニング機器フィットネス用品健康グッズ運動器具マッサージ器美容器具リハビリ機器健康マシン

Antonyms

娯楽用品嗜好品事務用品ジャンクフード

Common Collocations

健康器具を導入する

Common Phrases

健康器具マニア

— Someone who is obsessed with buying and trying new health gadgets.

彼は自他共に認める健康器具マニアだ。

健康器具売り場

— The section in a store where health equipment is sold.

健康器具売り場は3階にあります。

通販の健康器具

— Health equipment bought from TV or online shopping.

通販の健康器具は当たり外れが多い。

ぶら下がり健康器具

— A specific iconic hanging bar for stretching and back health.

昔、ぶら下がり健康器具が流行った。

健康器具の活用

— Making good use of health equipment.

健康器具の活用方法を学ぶ。

屋外健康器具

— Exercise equipment found in public parks.

公園の屋外健康器具でストレッチをする。

中古健康器具

— Used or second-hand health equipment.

中古健康器具を安く譲ってもらった。

健康器具のメンテナンス

— Maintenance or servicing of health equipment.

健康器具のメンテナンスは欠かせない。

おすすめの健康器具

— Recommended health equipment.

初心者におすすめの健康器具を教えてください。

健康器具の展示会

— An exhibition or trade show for health equipment.

最新の健康器具の展示会に行った。

Often Confused With

健康器具 vs スポーツ用品

Sports goods like balls/bats. Kenkō kigu are machines/apparatuses.

健康器具 vs 医療機器

Medical devices. These require certification and are for treatment, not just wellness.

健康器具 vs 工作機械

Industrial machinery. Both end in 'kikai/kigu' but have opposite purposes.

Idioms & Expressions

"健康器具が洗濯物干しになる"

— A common humorous idiom describing health equipment that is no longer used for exercise and instead used to hang laundry.

せっかく買った健康器具が、今では洗濯物干しになっている。

Colloquial

"健康第一"

— Health comes first. Often said when justifying the purchase of expensive equipment.

健康第一だから、高い健康器具も惜しくない。

Common

"三日坊主"

— A 'three-day monk' - someone who gives up easily. Often used when someone stops using their health equipment after 3 days.

健康器具を買っても、三日坊主では意味がない。

Common

"宝の持ち腐れ"

— A wasted treasure. Using expensive equipment for nothing.

使わない健康器具は宝の持ち腐れだ。

Common

"形から入る"

— To start by getting the appearance/equipment right before actually doing the activity.

彼は形から入るタイプなので、まず健康器具を揃えた。

Colloquial

"一石二鳥"

— Killing two birds with one stone. Used for multi-functional equipment.

この健康器具はマッサージもできて一石二鳥だ。

Common

"猫に小判"

— Gold coins to a cat. Giving expensive equipment to someone who doesn't know how to use it.

彼に最新の健康器具をあげても猫に小判だ。

Common

"塵も積もれば山となる"

— Dust piled up becomes a mountain. Used to encourage small daily use of equipment.

健康器具を毎日少しずつ使えば、塵も積もれば山となる。

Common

"弘法筆を選ばず"

— A great calligrapher doesn't blame his brush. Used to say that the equipment doesn't matter as much as the effort.

弘法筆を選ばずと言うが、やはり良い健康器具は使いやすい。

Common

"身を削る"

— To work oneself to the bone. Often used jokingly about over-using exercise equipment.

健康器具で身を削ってダイエットする。

Metaphorical

Easily Confused

健康器具 vs 器具 (Kigu)

Sounds like 'Dougu' (Tool).

Kigu is more for specialized apparatuses; Dougu is for general tools like a hammer.

実験器具 (Laboratory apparatus) vs 掃除道具 (Cleaning tools).

健康器具 vs 装置 (Souchi)

Both mean equipment/device.

Souchi implies a more complex, often stationary system (like an alarm system).

警報装置 (Alarm system) vs 健康器具 (Health gear).

健康器具 vs 機械 (Kikai)

Both refer to machines.

Kikai is a generic term for any machine with moving parts. Kigu can be non-mechanical (like a foam roller).

工作機械 (Machine tool) vs 健康器具 (Exercise tool).

健康器具 vs 用具 (Yougu)

Both mean 'equipment'.

Yougu is often used for gear needed for a specific activity (like 'writing gear').

筆記用具 (Writing utensils) vs 健康器具.

健康器具 vs 備品 (Bihin)

Both refer to items in a facility.

Bihin refers to fixtures or office furniture/equipment owned by a company.

事務用備品 (Office fixtures) vs 健康器具.

Sentence Patterns

[Object] は [Adjective] です。

健康器具は高いです。

[Object] で [Verb] ます。

健康器具で毎日歩きます。

[Noun] のために [Object] を買いました。

健康のために健康器具を買いました。

[Object] は [Effect] があります。

この健康器具はダイエットに効果があります。

[Object] を使うことによって、[Result]。

健康器具を使うことによって、体力がつきました。

[Object] を選ぶ際は、[Caution]。

健康器具を選ぶ際は、サイズを確認しましょう。

[Object] の普及に伴い、[Trend]。

健康器具の普及に伴い、自宅で運動する人が増えた。

[Object] が [Verb] 現状を鑑みると、[Opinion]。

健康器具が氾濫する現状を鑑みると、正しい知識が必要だ。

Word Family

Nouns

健康 (Health)

器具 (Apparatus)

健康法 (Health method)

健康美 (Healthy beauty)

健康体 (Healthy body)

Verbs

健康を害する (To damage health)

健康を保つ (To maintain health)

器具を備える (To equip with apparatus)

Adjectives

健康的な (Healthy)

不健康な (Unhealthy)

トレーニング

フィットネス

マッサージ

ダイエット

リハビリ

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in daily life and media.

Common Mistakes

Calling a tennis racket a 健康器具. → スポーツ用品 (Supoutsu youhin).
Kenkō kigu refers to apparatuses for health maintenance, not gear for competitive sports.
Pronouncing it as 'Kenko kigu' (short o). → Kenkō kigu (long o).
The long 'o' is crucial. 'Kenko' is not a standard word; 'Kenkō' means health.
Using 'Kenkō kigu' for a heart rate monitor. → 健康管理ガジェット or 医療機器 (if medical grade).
While acceptable in casual speech, 'kigu' usually implies a larger mechanical tool.
Saying 'Kenkō kigu wo undou suru'. → 健康器具で運動する.
You exercise 'with' or 'using' the tool, you don't 'exercise' the tool itself.
Using 'Kenkō kigu' to mean 'healthy food'. → 健康食品 (Kenkō shokuhin).
Kigu specifically means a physical tool or apparatus, not a consumable.

Tips

Shopping Tip

When shopping online in Japan, search for '健康器具' to find machines and '健康グッズ' to find smaller accessories like massage balls.

Verb Pairing

Use the verb 'shiyou suru' for a more professional tone, and 'tsukau' for daily conversation when talking about using the equipment.

TV Shopping

Watch Japanese infomercials (Terebi Tsuuhan) to hear the word used repeatedly and learn descriptive adjectives for health benefits.

Size Matters

In Japan, 'compact' and 'foldable' (tatami-shiki) are key selling points for health equipment due to limited housing space.

Synonym Nuance

Don't confuse 'kigu' with 'kikai'. A 'kikai' must have a motor or complex moving parts, but a 'kigu' can be a simple plastic tool.

Medical Distinction

If a device claims to 'cure' a disease, it's an 'iryou kiki'. If it just 'supports health', it's a 'kenkō kigu'.

Kanji Practice

The kanji for 'Kigu' (器具) are also used in 'Bun-gu' (stationery) and 'Kagu' (furniture). Learning them helps with many other words.

Pitch Accent

Keep the pitch relatively flat for 'kenkō' with a slight rise on the 'n'. This sounds most natural to native ears.

Gift Giving

Health equipment is a very popular gift for 'Respect for the Aged Day' (Keirou no Hi) in Japan.

Safety First

Always check for the 'SG Mark' on Japanese health equipment, which ensures it meets safety standards.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ken' (like Barbie's Ken, who is fit) and 'Ko' (like a Co-worker). Ken and his Co-worker use a Key (Ki) and Glue (Gu) to fix their health machine.

Visual Association

Imagine a treadmill (the 'kigu') with a giant green heart icon (the 'kenkō') glowing on its screen.

Word Web

Treadmill Massage Chair Yoga Mat Dumbbells Exercise Bike Foam Roller Blood Pressure Monitor Balance Ball

Challenge

Go to a Japanese shopping site like Amazon.co.jp, search for '健康器具', and try to name three specific items you see in Japanese.

Word Origin

A Sino-Japanese (Kango) compound. 'Ken' (健) means strong/healthy, 'Kō' (康) means peace/ease. 'Ki' (器) means vessel/tool, and 'Gu' (具) means tool/ingredients.

Original meaning: A vessel or tool for maintaining a strong and peaceful body.

Sino-Japanese / Kanji-based.

Cultural Context

Be careful when suggesting 'kenkō kigu' to someone, as it might imply you think they are out of shape or old, depending on the relationship.

In the West, we usually say 'exercise equipment' or 'gym gear'. 'Health apparatus' sounds much more medical in English than it does in Japanese.

The 'Buragari Kenkouki' (Hanging Bar) boom of 1978. The 'Wonder Core' abdominal machine commercials in the 2010s. Nintendo's 'Ring Fit Adventure' as a modern digital version of the concept.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At a Gym

使い方は？
この器具はどこに効きますか？
最新のモデルですね。
予約が必要ですか？

At an Electronics Store

健康器具コーナーはどこですか？
試着（試用）できますか？
持ち帰れますか？
保証期間は？

Talking to a Doctor

おすすめの健康器具はありますか？
これを使っても大丈夫ですか？
リハビリに役立ちますか？
無理のない範囲で使います。

Watching TV Shopping

今なら半額！
送料無料です。
効果には個人差があります。
返品可能です。

In a Park

おじいちゃんが使っている。
ストレッチにいいですね。
誰でも使えますか？
雨の日は滑りやすい。

Conversation Starters

"最近、何かおすすめの健康器具はありますか？ (Recently, are there any health devices you recommend?)"

"家で健康器具を使って運動していますか？ (Do you use health equipment to exercise at home?)"

"通販で健康器具を買ったことがありますか？ (Have you ever bought health equipment from mail order?)"

"一番役に立った健康器具は何ですか？ (What is the most useful piece of health equipment you've had?)"

"健康器具が洗濯物干しになった経験はありますか？ (Have you ever had health equipment become a laundry rack?)"

Journal Prompts

もしお金がたくさんあったら、どんな健康器具を家に置きたいですか？その理由も書いてください。 (If you had a lot of money, what kind of health equipment would you want to have at home? Write the reason too.)

最近買った、または使った健康器具の感想を詳しく書いてみましょう。 (Write your detailed impressions of a piece of health equipment you recently bought or used.)

日本で「ぶら下がり健康器具」が流行った理由について、自分の考えを書いてください。 (Write your thoughts on why 'hanging health bars' became popular in Japan.)

健康器具は本当に健康に役立つと思いますか？それとも意志の力の方が大切ですか？ (Do you think health equipment really helps with health? Or is willpower more important?)

最新のAI健康器具について、どのような機能があれば便利か想像して書いてください。 (Imagine and write about what functions would be convenient for the latest AI health equipment.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, it can. While smaller items are often called 'kenkō guzzu' (health goods), in a formal retail inventory, a yoga mat falls under 'kenkō kigu' as it is a tool used for health maintenance.

In casual conversation, yes. However, legally and technically, it is classified as an 'iryou kiki' (medical device) in Japan because it measures vital signs.

This is a very common Japanese joke ('sentakumono-hoshi ni naru'). Because Japanese apartments are small, an unused treadmill or exercise bike is often used to hang clothes to dry.

'Training machine' is more specific to gym equipment for muscle building. 'Kenkō kigu' is broader and includes things for stretching, massage, and general wellness.

Yes, absolutely. Massage chairs are one of the most common examples of 'kenkō kigu' in Japanese households.

It is a standard, neutral word. It's formal enough for a news report but common enough for a casual chat.

You can say: 'Kenkō kigu uriba wa doko desu ka?'

Yes, they are. They are tools (kigu) used for health (kenkō).

An indoor stationary bike is. A regular bicycle used for transportation is usually just called 'jitensha' and categorized as a vehicle.

The 'Buragari Kenkouki' (Hanging Health Bar) which became a massive fad in 1978 is the most culturally iconic one.