Why We Bow: Respect & Tradition in Martial Arts

dvincent41
Jun 11
2 min read

If you've ever stepped foot on the mats at David Vincent’s Martial Arts, chances are you've seen a lot of bowing going on—at the door, to the instructors, to partners, even at the start and end of class. It might seem like a simple gesture, but it carries deep meaning rooted in martial arts tradition and culture.

Let’s break it down

A Sign of Respect

At its core, bowing is a way to say “I respect you.”Whether it’s to your instructor, your training partner, or the space where you practice, bowing shows gratitude and humility. It’s our way of acknowledging that we’re here to learn, grow, and train with honor.

A Tradition with Purpose

Bowing has been part of martial arts for centuries. From the dojos of Japan to the training halls of Thailand, it's a universal symbol of discipline and tradition. It reminds us that what we’re doing is bigger than just kicks and punches—it’s a journey passed down through generations.

More Than Just a Gesture

Bowing is also a great mindset reset. When a student bows before entering the mat, it’s like saying, “I’m ready to focus.” When they bow to a partner, it’s “Let’s learn and grow together.”It’s not about one person being above another—it’s about mutual respect, every time.

Teaching Kids Respect Through Action

For our younger students, bowing becomes one of the first ways they learn respect. It’s built into every class, every interaction. Over time, that respectful behavior spills over into school, home, and everyday life. And honestly, it’s pretty awesome to see a 6-year-old hold the door for someone or say “yes sir/ma’am” naturally.

Our Studio Culture

At DVMA, we don’t just teach martial arts—we live by its values. Bowing is a small but powerful way we keep those values front and center. It keeps us grounded in humility, connected to tradition, and respectful of every person who steps on the mat.