The Martial Arts Bow

"The rice stalk that carries the most grain bends the lowest". Although there are many traditions in Martial Arts the bow is one of the most misunderstood. Many people think of it as a religious behaviour, or as a sign of a master-slave type relationship between an instructor and student. Both interpretations are false.

If you were to compare the Asian bow to a Western tradition it would most closely resemble the handshake. There is nothing religious about either, they are simply actions which allow respect to flow both ways. They show appreciation and courtesy and in no way are associated with an attitude of subservience.

During training at Prokick, instructors bow to students, as well as students to instructors.We bow to our instructors to show our respect and gratitude for their time and teachings, and to signify that we are concentrating on the task and training ahead.Bowing should be done prior to, and immediately after sparring. We bow to our partner, (or opponent), to indicate to each other that we are alert and ready. The bow after the sparring shows our gratitude to the other person.At the beginning of each session we bow to indicate that we are clearing our minds of daily problems and events. In effect we are "emptying our cup" which will help us to absorb the techniques we are about to learn.

The bow also displays a lack of arrogance; it indicates that any egos have been "checked in" at the door. Understanding that you do not already know all there is to know is very important in Martial Arts. If you feel that you know everything already it will be impossible to learn anything new, as the old adage goes, a cup that is already full can hold no more.The contents on this page has only touched on the subject of the bow, there is an interesting history behind the origins. Seeking out additional knowledge is way of complementing our physical training, increasing our respect for our chosen discipline, and or course, adding another ingredient to our cup.To find out more about Martial Arts etiquette keep up-to-date with Prokick.ComHave you got any thoughts to share? Please use the comments box below.