NATIONAL TANG SOO DO ORGANISATION    

TEACHING THE TRADITIONAL KOREAN MARTIAL ART OF SELF-DEFENCE

How to Bow and When To Bow

A good Tang Soo Do student cannot train in the proper Tang Soo Do spirit without humility. A lot of emphasis is placed on the traditional bow of respect, which brings and shows humility.

Attention

Stand straight, heels together with the hands held at the side of the body.

Bow

While standing to attention, bend forward at the waist to about 30 degrees. The eyes should stay looking at the person you are bowing to, with the exception of your Instructor or someone you have complete trust in (i.e. someone you know they will not hit you while you are not looking).

When to Bow 

Traditionally you should bow to anyone or anything you have respect for e.g. in a court of law, a lawyer will bow to the judge, in a church a practising Catholic or Christian would bow to the alter or citizens of a country would bow to their King or Queen and so on.

Here are some examples:

Before entering a training hall (even if it’s a local Scout Hut)

Before leaving a training hall  (again even if it’s a local Scout Hut)

Before and after you talk to an Instructor or any black Belt holder (whether you or they are in or out of uniform)

Before and after receiving anything from an Instructor or member

After completing a task or instruction an Instructor has given you

When a Senior Black Belt enters a room

To the National or Organisation flags if they are there

To a training partner:

Before and after they have helped you in any way

The above are not necessarily the only times you should bow. Bow any time to show respect to who or whatever stands if front of you.

Shaking Hands

The Instructor or Black Belt holder will hold out their hand if they wish to shake your hand.

Hold out your right hand (loosely); place your left hand under your right elbow and bend at the waist slightly. The Instructor will complete the motion. Do not grip, grab or clasp the Instructors hand, let the Instructor make any other motions that are necessary. When the Instructor lets your hand free, stand up straight. Don’t forget to bow before leaving.

Receiving an Award etc. from an Instructor or Black Belt holder

When receiving an award, Certificate or trophy etc.:

When your name is called, you must swiftly make your way to the presentation area (do not walk). Before you leave, take two paces back and bow in the traditional fashion then swiftly return to your place.

The same respect should be shown when receiving flyers, handouts or any forms etc.

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Copyright © 2002 NATIONAL TANG SOO DO ORGANISATION
Last modified: April 10, 2003