運動
undō[ɯ̟̃ndo̞ː]
The English phrase 'workout' can be translated into Japanese as 運動 (undō) or ワークアウト (wākuauto).
Meaning: an exercise session, a period of physical exercise (noun)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 運動 | undō | [ɯ̟̃ndo̞ː] (narrow) |
| ワークアウト | wākuauto |
運動 is a broad term used for any kind of physical exercise or movement. In contrast, ワークアウト is a loanword specifically used in fitness contexts, such as when discussing bodybuilding or specific gym routines.
Which one should you use?
運動 (undō) is a general term for physical activity, whereas ワークアウト (wākuauto) refers more specifically to a structured training session or gym workout.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
ワークアウト (wākuauto) is a loanword from English.
How do you pronounce it?
undō
Did you know?
- If you want to say you are 'working out' to get fit, Japanese speakers often use the verb 鍛える (kitaeru), which means 'to forge' or 'to temper' a blade.
- The word 運動 (undō) is frequently used in political contexts to mean a 'movement' or 'campaign', such as a social or political movement.
- In school settings, 運動会 (undōkai) refers to an 'athletic meet' or sports day, which is a major cultural event rather than just a regular workout.
Examples in context
- 彼女は毎日トレーニングをします。She works out every day.
- 週末に友達と一緒にエクササイズをするのが好きです。I enjoy working out with friends on weekends.
- 運動することは健康にとって重要です。Exercising is important for your health.
- 毎朝、公園で運動をしています。Maiasa, kouen de undou o shite imasu.I do my exercise in the park every morning.
- 健康のために運動を始めました。Kenkou no tame ni undou o hajimemashita.I started exercising for my health.
- 激しい運動の後は、水分を摂ってください。Hagashii undou no ato wa, suibun o totte kudasai.Please hydrate after intense exercise.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their fitness routines.
- 結衣 Yui健太さんは、毎日運動していますか？Kenta-san wa, mainichi undou shite imasu ka?Kenta, do you exercise every day?
- 健太 Kentaはい、週に三回は運動しています。Hai, shuu ni sankai wa undou shite imasu.Yes, I exercise three times a week.
- 結衣 Yuiすごいですね！私も運動したいです。Sugoi desu ne! Watashi mo undou shitai desu.That's amazing! I want to exercise too.
- 健太 Kenta一緒にジムに行きませんか？Issho ni jimu ni ikimasen ka?Would you like to go to the gym with me?
Sources
- Wiktionary, “workout” translations and entries 運動, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
