ANN ARBOR, Mich. - TelAve -- The Shudokan Martial Arts Association (SMAA) is drawing attention to one of traditional Japanese budo's most foundational practices: seiza, the formal kneeling posture that lies at the heart of classical and modern Japanese martial arts training.

Seiza, meaning "proper sitting," holds deep historical, cultural, and martial significance in Japan. Far more than a way of sitting, it is a vehicle for transmitting values and shaping both the body and the spirit.

What Seiza Develops

SMAA emphasizes the following dimensions of authentic seiza practice:

• Physical development: Seiza aligns the spine, encourages abdominal breathing, strengthens the lower back, and stretches the quadriceps and ankles.
• Heijoshin—the composed mind: The alert, settled quality seiza requires is a physical expression of the balanced mind that martial arts training cultivates.
• Reiho and etiquette: Bowing from seiza is a deliberate act of humility.
• Martial transitions: How a practitioner enters and exits seiza is itself a martial skill, reflecting mastery of balance, timing, and spatial awareness.

In koryu bujutsu, entire kata are performed from seiza—a direct reflection of a time when defending oneself from a formal seated position was a genuine necessity. Modern disciplines, including kendo, aikido, and iaido, continue to place seiza at the opening and closing of every session, reinforcing the values of respect and sincere effort that define authentic training.

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To neglect seiza is to bypass a vital part of traditional martial arts education. Practiced with genuine attention, it teaches control over the body and mind, reveals tension, and demands the calm awareness that distinguishes truly skilled practitioners.

Explore Traditional Budo with a Martial Arts Organization That Takes It Seriously

SMAA encourages practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of seiza and the broader tradition of Japanese budo to explore membership.

As a martial arts organization (https://www.smaa-hq.com/about) with members in the USA, Japan, Canada, England, Australia, and beyond, SMAA offers internationally recognized ranking, the quarterly SMAA Journal, seminars, and a worldwide community grounded in authentic practice.

To learn more or begin the application process, visit: https://www.smaa-hq.com/membership

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About the Shudokan Martial Arts Association

SMAA was founded in January 1994 by a group of martial artists concerned with promoting and safeguarding Nihon budo and koryu bujutsu—the traditional martial arts and ways of Japan. SMAA aims to keep the spirit of traditional budo alive in the West. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in traditional Japanese martial arts. Contact us at: https://www.smaa-hq.com/contact.