Rei is the Japanese word for a formal bow, used across many Japanese martial arts to open and close a training session and to mark other moments in class, such as before and after partner practice. It is a gesture of mutual respect rather than a religious or purely ceremonial act, extended equally to the training space, the instructor and training partners.
A typical class begins with a bow toward the front of the dojo, sometimes toward a symbolic photograph or calligraphy, followed by a bow to the instructor, often introduced as part of the formal opening of the session. Partner drills are commonly bracketed by a bow at the start and end, acknowledging both the exchange that is about to happen and the effort just shared.
Exact customs vary between styles and schools, including how deep the bow is and whether it is performed standing or kneeling, so new students generally learn the local practice simply by watching and following along in their first classes. Rei is closely connected to the wider etiquette summed up in a school's dojo kun. See our martial arts overview for more on training culture and etiquette.
