The Meaning of Oss!
Osu - The Bow 🙇♂️
What's Osu?
In Japan it is, for the Karate-ka, “The word of words.”
🥋 OSS: The Spirit of Respect and Perseverance in Martial Arts
If you’ve ever stepped into a dojo or watched a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class, chances are you’ve heard someone say, “**Oss**.” It's just a small word—but it carries a powerful weight in the martial arts world.
So, what does **Oss** really mean? Why do martial artists say it so often? And where did it come from? Let’s break it down.
What Does "Oss" Mean?
At its core, "Oss" (also spelled "Osu") is a term used to express:
* Respect
* Acknowledgment
* Determination
* Discipline
* Perseverance
In a dojo, “Oss” is more than a casual phrase—it's a **universal response**, used to greet, agree, show understanding, or display fighting spirit. You might hear it when a student bows to their instructor, confirms a technique, or even pushes through a tough round of sparring.
Where
Did
"Oss"
Come From?
The origins of "Oss" are somewhat debated, but the most accepted theory ties it to the Japanese phrase:
押忍 (Osu no Seishin)
Which roughly translates to:
👉 *“The spirit of pushing and enduring.”*
It’s believed to have been popularized in **Kyokushin Karate**, a style known for its emphasis on toughness, respect, and rigorous discipline.
However the world is used throughout all other karate styles including Shotokan.
How "Oss"
Is
Used
in
Different
Martial Arts
🥋 Karate
In traditional Karate dojos, “Oss” is often used in place of "yes," to show understanding, or to greet instructors and peers with respect.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
In BJJ gyms around the world, “Oss” has become a cultural staple. Practitioners use it:
* To greet each other
* At the start and end of class
* To acknowledge a good roll or technique
🥋 Judo & Other Arts
Although not as commonly used in traditional Judo, “Oss” is sometimes heard in modern or mixed martial arts environments influenced by Karate and BJJ.
Why It Matters
In martial arts, **discipline, humility, and perseverance** are just as important as physical strength. “Oss” is a reminder of these values. Every time you say it, you’re reinforcing the mindset that defines a true martial artist:
* **Respect** for your teacher and peers
* **Gratitude** for the opportunity to train
* **Determination** to improve, no matter how tough it gets
Final Thoughts
“Oss” is more than a word—it’s a philosophy. Whether you're a white belt or a black belt, saying “Oss” connects you to a tradition of warriors who push through pain, learn through discipline, and treat others with honor.
So the next time you bow in, tie your belt, or finish a hard round of training, say it with meaning:
Oss!
https://www.mykarateclub.co.uk
Comments