Shotokan Karate

Ritsu Rei

立礼

Ritsu Rei

The standing bow, made on stepping into the dojo and out of it, to the shomen at the opening and closing of a class, and to a partner before and after every exchange. The heels come together in musubi dachi, the hands lie flat against the outside of the thighs, and the body inclines from the hips with the back straight — about fifteen degrees to a partner, deeper to the shomen. The eyes go down with the bow rather than staying up, which is where karate parts company with judo: one is a courtesy paid to a partner, the other a guard kept on an opponent. A bow made in a hurry is the first thing an examiner sees.

Did the animation meet your expectations?

Be the first to answer — one tap.