I have noticed some confusion when visiting some Karate clubs on the true meaning of Sieza. So I hope that I can clarify this with the step by step explanation of the full traditional bow at the start of every class.
Seiza – the whole class kneels. This should be done with out using your hands to help and to assist in this the left knee is allowed to move to the side as you move to the floor.
Sensei-Ni-Rei – Bow to instructor, not an act of subjugation but it is the instructor bowing to the pupils as they bow back as a mark of mutual respect.
Otagai-Ni-Rei – Bow to all assembled (each other), this is done with a single bow performed forward although the intent is to bow to your fellow pupils.
Kiritsu – Stand, your knees come together and once again the left knee moves out to the side so you do not need to use your hands to get up. Often a standing bow is performed at the end of this sequence.
It is important to understand that Sensie-Ni-Rei is not when the sensei receives a bow of humility from his pupils. It is the time for him/her to show his/her mutual respect to the people that have come to learn the art.
