The traditional bow-in at A.K.E.A. acknowledges the Warrior and the Scholar, and how they work together. Attributes of the Warrior and Scholar are represented by the image and character of the Five Animals, as are our belt ranks.
The Tiger Pursues the Hurricane
Ranks WHITE through YELLOW/BLACK
The body of The Tiger represents the STRENGTH of the warrior. The character of The Tiger represent the COURTESY of the scholar.
The Serpent Tests the Air
Ranks GREEN through GREEN/BLACK
The body of The Serpent represents the STAMINA of the warrior. The character of The Serpent represent the COURAGE of the scholar.
The Crane Airs Its Wings
Ranks BLUE through PURPLE/BLACK
The body of The Crane represents the SKILL of the warrior. The character of The Crane represent the CONFIDENCE of the scholar.
The Leopard Braves the Sword
Ranks BROWN through BROWN/BLACK
The body of The Leopard represents the SPEED of the warrior. The character of The Leopard represent the COMMITMENT of the scholar.
The Dragon Rides the Wind
Ranks SHODAN (1st Degree Black) and above
The body of The Dragon represents the SURPRISE of the warrior. The character of The Dragon represent the CONTROL of the scholar.