Bow To Sensei

This page is intended to be a quick reference to help you understand some of the nuts and bolts of etiquette in relationship to bowing to the Shihan and/or Class Instructors of our school. For more complete information, see the Etiquette page.

Why?

Bowing is an expression of respect and courtesy to your teacher, and sets the tone for training.  Although we train in a group setting, the teacher/student relationship is most significant, and establishes the pace for all that is accomplished in the dojo.

When?

Before and after training.  And anytime your teacher approaches you during training time: once when he approaches, and once before leaving.

How:

Before class – bow to your Sensei before you do anything else.  If he (or she) is in the lobby area, stop, bow and then continue on.  If you don’t see him, go in and change, just be sure to stop and bow the first time you do see him.  If you come into the dojo and he is not there, go about your business, but once he enters, be ready to bow with the class at the command of the senior student.

After class – once the equipment is put away, your uniform is properly folded and you are ready to leave, walk up to your teacher, and bow as a final show of respect, courtesy, and thanks.

What if he’s with someone?

The Karate class simply has too many students to have everyone standing around waiting for Sensei’s attention. Just bow the first and last time you see him. If he is busy with someone else that is fine, still show your respect by bowing whether he is able to acknowledge you or not.

This personal display of respect and courtesy may seem minor, but it requires effort; and your attention to the important details of etiquette such as this sends a clear message to your teacher, and those around you, of your intent and sincerity in training.