WHEN DO I BOW?

1. Upon entering or leaving the dojo.

2. When stepping on or off the Tatami (mat).

3. Before or after training or consenting to train with a partner.

4. Addressing an instructor or when answering a question.

5. To a seated student, indicating you would like to be his partner.

6. At the beginning and end of each class (formal bow).


WHY DO I BOW?

Bowing is an important part of any Martial Arts Training. It indicates courtesy and respect to the art, the Dojo, the Sensei other students and yourself.

HOW DO I BOW?

Standing Bow (Tachirei) - Stand with feet together, arms at the side and bow slightly from the waist. The bow is not a religious formality; it is a gesture of respect.

Sitting position (Seiza) - Seiza is the formal sitting position where the student sits on his or her heels with big toes crossed or touching. Traditionally knees should be one fist apart, with palms resting on the top of the thighs and elbows relaxed against the sides. Backs should be straight and the head held upright.

Formal bow (Ritsurei) - From standing to seiza kneel first with the left leg, followed by the right. In seiza, place the left hand flat on the mat followed by the right, forming a triangle with the thumbs and forefingers. This triangle is in front of the face when bowing. Bow with good posture. The right hand is then returned to the thigh, then the left. Stand by rising on the right leg first, then step back to the left foot so that the feet are together. The formal bow in seiza position is at the beginning and end of each class. You will always stand up in order of rank, highest rank first.