The Japanese word “Rei”, means “bow or salutation”. The bow symbolizes courtesy. respect, humility and sincerity. There are two methods of bowing. The standing bow, which is known as, “ritsu rei” and the seated bow known as, “za rei”. The “ritsu rei”, is done when entering or leaving the training area. This is performed while facing the main wall or area, which is known as, “the shomen”. The “ritsu rei” is also done before and after an exercise with a partner and at the beginning and end of kata. The “za rei” is done at the beginning and end of a formal training session or at the start and finish of certain special exercises. When bowing, one bends at the waist with the eyes directed at the ground, approximately five feet in front of the body. When the seated bow is performed, both hands should be placed on the ground in front of the knees, with the fingertips pointing inward. When the standing bow is performed, the palms of the hands should be touching the sides of the thighs.