Why We Bow at Rising Sun Martial Arts: Respect, Humility, and What It Really Means
If you’ve ever stepped into a martial arts studio—whether in Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, or right here in Downtown Abacoa—you’ve probably seen students bowing before and after class, before sparring, or when addressing their instructor.
At Rising Sun Martial Arts, the bow is more than tradition. It’s a quiet, powerful gesture that reflects the heart of what we teach: respect, humility, and intentionality.
It’s Not About Submission. It’s About Awareness.
In Filipino Martial Arts (also called Kali or Eskrima), the bow is a way to acknowledge a moment—to pause and recognize the people around you, the art you’re practicing, and the space you’re in.
We don’t bow because we’re told to. We bow because we’re choosing to. It’s our way of saying:
“I’m here. I’m ready to learn.”
“I respect your journey as much as my own.”
“Let’s train with care, purpose, and mutual trust.”
At Rising Sun, Respect is a Daily Practice
You’ll see bowing throughout class at Rising Sun, whether it’s a 6-year-old white belt child greeting a teen or an adult preparing for a sparring round. It’s never just routine—it’s a reminder:
To treat others with kindness
To treat ourselves with humility
To approach every challenge with courage and focus
When we teach kids and teens to bow, we’re not just showing them martial arts etiquette—we’re showing them how to carry themselves in the world.
A Veteran’s Perspective on Respect
Our founder, Mr. Neil Buzick, brings a unique lens to this conversation. As a former military counterintelligence agent with years of service in Iraq and Kuwait, Neil understands what it means to operate with discipline, honor, and composure.
The structure and intentionality behind martial arts—especially Filipino Martial Arts—echo the respect he lived and breathed during his service. At Rising Sun, that same culture of accountability and mutual trust shapes every class, from our kids’ martial arts program to our advanced teen and adult Kali training.
More Than a Bow: It’s a Way of Being
When your child learns to bow, they’re also learning to:
Listen attentively
Take ownership of their behavior
Treat classmates with compassion
Handle frustration with maturity
Show up with integrity
These are the lessons that stick. Long after the belt promotions and drills are over, these values follow our students into classrooms, friendships, and future careers.
What Parents Are Telling Us
🟢 “My son bows now before he even walks into school. He takes a deep breath, collects himself, and walks in with intention.”
🟢 “It’s changed how my daughter communicates. She listens better, respects boundaries, and carries herself with confidence.”
🟢 “Martial arts gave my child respect—but not through fear. Through pride.”
Want to Experience the Difference?
If you’re looking for a martial arts studio in Jupiter, Palm Beach Gardens, or Abacoa where your child will learn more than kicks and blocks—come see what Rising Sun is all about.
We’d love to meet your family, answer your questions, and invite your child to try a free class.
👉 Click here to schedule a free class today
At Rising Sun Martial Arts, the bow is just the beginning. What follows is growth, discipline, and a journey your child will never forget.
