Seiza: Why You Should Learn Japanese Formal Sitting

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  • Опубліковано 10 лип 2024
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    00:00 What is seiza? Time for a Japanese lesson!
    00:46 Why the heck would you want to sit this way?
    02:04 The proper feet position for sitting comfortably
    02:30 3 fists-width is the magic measurement
    03:00 ⚠️ Don’t do these two things!
    04:08 Another reason for doing seiza correctly
    04:38 A drill to practice improving your mobility for seiza
    06:53 Practice this variation for even added flexibility
    07:46 Combo time! Putting seiza into motion
    09:13 Practice daily 👉 gmb.io/e/
    Otsukaresama deshita! That’s Japanese for "thanks for watching today’s video and you look fantastic!" ;)
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 334

  • @simonlawler7345
    @simonlawler7345 Рік тому +52

    As a 66 year old male I have been trying to achieve this position practising every day for 3 months. I am still a centimeterover my heels with my butt and have considerable pain in my knees trying it. No so easy but I will persevere

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +11

      Just be gentle and stay consistent like you are - you'll get it :)

    • @BelloBudo007
      @BelloBudo007 Рік тому +2

      I feel your pain. I have a knee that's was operated on almost 50 years ago, and it can give me curry when I attempt seiza. However it is such a beautiful posture that I am motivated to try to get it as best I can.
      My current strategy is by way of cushions. Starting with big ones and then stage by stage reducing the size. I'm not saying it's ideal. Just that it's something I am testing out.

    • @emp-ty-g
      @emp-ty-g Рік тому +2

      you could also eat a alot and get a cm that way hehe

    • @The_SixShooter
      @The_SixShooter 9 місяців тому +1

      Been practicing seiza slowly no forcings for two weeks and now slowly touched butt to my heels but still painful quite bit few areas.

    • @Unpredictable899
      @Unpredictable899 2 місяці тому

      Easy does it, way to go.

  • @wayneparker9331
    @wayneparker9331 2 роки тому +79

    You never cease to impress. I was stationed in Japan many years ago and took up kendo. So learning to sit in seiza was hard but it really does have health benefits. Thanks for teaching others how to sit in this position.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +13

      Thank you - it's not comfortable to learn, especially for those of us who learned by doing it on hardwood floors...

    • @one4320
      @one4320 2 роки тому +4

      @@gmbfit 😭

  • @gamergeek494
    @gamergeek494 2 роки тому +31

    Thanks for the tip of placing the heel under the sit bones. Just this small change allowed me to drastically increase the time I could sit in this position comfortably.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +6

      I don't know how that detail has gone under-acknowledged for so long... it really does make a huge difference!

  • @seankerby5482
    @seankerby5482 10 днів тому +1

    I used to spend time in seiza doing Kenjitsu..Once again yall are making me realize the old ways are best.

  • @mendocenio57
    @mendocenio57 Рік тому +5

    The best seiza video I have seen. So complete. I have seen several other seiza videos and they were so incomplete and I never got the answers I was looking for. Thanks!

  • @kevinallen5246
    @kevinallen5246 2 роки тому +17

    I've found myself gravitating to this style of sitting more and more. It initially wasn't conscious, but I've really grown to embrace it. It gives me a real sense of rest while still remaining alert, plus it feels good. Great video. 👍

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому

      Thanks! It's a nice, balanced posture when you get used to it :)

  • @Millenimorphose
    @Millenimorphose Рік тому +6

    I know a lot of people complain about knee pain when they first start seiza, but my pain point has always been the front of my feet/ankle flexion.

    • @iMilhouse
      @iMilhouse 10 місяців тому

      Funnily enough, me too (and I’ve just stumbled across this video). Do you find it gets better with practice?

    • @iMilhouse
      @iMilhouse 9 місяців тому

      @@8bg201 thanks for the advice :). I found that with practice/ gradual increases in time sitting it got much better within a few days, and now I can sit fine :). Must have needed to increase my flexibility or something :)

  • @maryhawn9353
    @maryhawn9353 Рік тому +2

    Your teaching is beyond awesome as is your generosity in sharing your expertise. Thank you.

  • @likesgymnastics5767
    @likesgymnastics5767 Рік тому +1

    Thank you for this video. Best thing I learned this week by far.

  • @tc-3
    @tc-3 2 роки тому +1

    I've been following your channel for quite some time, and the content had always been great, but the videos you've been producing for the past few months are on a whole another level - AMAZING.
    On another note, Elements are awesome, and I really enjoy seeing movements from that program, as well as from Resilience, making appearance in your videos.
    Thank you and keep up the great work!

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому

      Thanks, Tamara! I like to think we're getting better all the time :)

  • @JoeTheGIFlow
    @JoeTheGIFlow Рік тому +2

    Very helpful video, I’m in the mix of self training myself and it instantly made a lot of sense thank you sm!

  • @busyrand
    @busyrand Рік тому +1

    Thank you for covering the many why's of this practice.

  • @TheShotenZenjin
    @TheShotenZenjin Рік тому +3

    Thank you for this very helpful video. I've also lived in Japan for many years and practice a style of Japanese buddhism where we chant to a mandala while sitting seiza. Most Japanese adherents seemingly have little to no problem maintaining this position for comparatively long periods. However, for me, after about five minutes my legs start to go dead and it is quite painful to actually stand up. I resorted to a small stool years ago! I'm going to try your execises and see if I can get down there with my Japanese friends!

  • @VivePlenaMente7
    @VivePlenaMente7 6 місяців тому +1

    Thank you so much for this video. It is really helpful. I will be participating in a tea ceremony in about a month and been practicing couple of times a day but this video helped a lot

  • @tangohotellima1895
    @tangohotellima1895 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you very much for revealing these intricacies-this is wonderful information! 🙇🏻‍♂️

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +3

      Sure thing - it's one of those things nobody ever seems to bother explaning

  • @laradelong6967
    @laradelong6967 Рік тому +1

    Thanks! Very informative and helpful!

  • @Joesquire2000
    @Joesquire2000 2 роки тому +3

    I practice Aikido. I've always wondered if there's a proper way for Seiza and now I know! Thank you for the tutorial! Gonna try the proper way out from now on!

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому

      Right on! Most school never actually teach this in any detail, which I've always thought was strange.

  • @MGShogun
    @MGShogun 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you for this video. I've been using this position for mediating but never feel comfortable. Because of your instructions, I was able to mediate without issues. Much appreciated it!

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +1

      Excellent! IT gets more comfortable over time when you find the right alignment :)

  • @dog283spec
    @dog283spec Рік тому

    Thank you for this video. I'm 36 years old and I started Kendo 4 months ago and I've really been struggling with sitting in seiza. This has been a big help and I've finally understood how to do it properly.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Right on. Give it time. All those people in your dojo who do it comfortably have has a lot of time to get that way :)

  • @RocknRollkat
    @RocknRollkat 2 роки тому +2

    Excellent presentation, thank you.

  • @carolinelandreth7867
    @carolinelandreth7867 2 роки тому +4

    So great loving these new videos you are putting out. I was just wondering how I could learn to sit on my heels comfortably and was already intuitively doing what you recommended so its great to know I am on track! Now I just need the patience.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому

      Right on - and it does take patience.. :)

  • @iainmillar1532
    @iainmillar1532 Рік тому +7

    When I was younger doing Seido karate we used to meditate in Seiza. However it was so painful for me it was like torture instead! Now 30 years later I’m even worse. I’m gonna try this for a minute a day, I’ll update with progress. Cheers!

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +2

      Yeah, it's a nice position if you do it well and build up to it :)

    • @leinadllerp
      @leinadllerp 2 місяці тому +1

      so no updates aka 0 progress?

  • @jimmlygoodness
    @jimmlygoodness 2 роки тому +1

    Great video! Thank you! 🙏

  • @pirinst
    @pirinst Рік тому

    Thank you Very much.! Knee injury had resulted in either painful or non ability to do seiza and heel sitting for the past 10 years. Your pulsing idea inspired me to forearm press against my bad knee with hand on the floor to power stretch my calf area. It works in just a couple minutes...temporary pain free seiza and heel sitting both. Like decades past in judo and sosuishi-ryu where we did both on the mat. I will continue doing this stretch and appreciate your video.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Glad it helped! Man, knee injuries are so common in martial arts, and then we make everyone sit like this...

  • @IntuitiveWarrior2024
    @IntuitiveWarrior2024 Рік тому +1

    Thankyou for this. I am a karate instructor and nice to have this perspective from you. Just recovering from two totally torn ankle ligaments so seiza a challenge for me at present but working on it!

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Oh dang, sorry to hear about the injury. It's actually more common than you'd expect. Hope this helps after your recover.

  • @TheTjames77
    @TheTjames77 2 роки тому +11

    Wow! I've always had pain in my knees when trying to sit like this. I never knew I was doing it wrong! That explains a lot. Thanks for all of your awesome videos! 🙏

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +2

      Glad it's helpful for you!

  • @gregoireborel700
    @gregoireborel700 2 роки тому +10

    Man the last videos are so great. Luckily I worked my seiza for years :)
    I've done Elements, and I'm currently doing Vitamin, Floor Loco and Integral Strength. End-year goal is the press to handstand.
    This is so much fun! Thanks and keep the videos coming!

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +1

      Get at it! So glad you're enjoying these lately :) Don't be a stranger!

  • @DavidRandallCurtis
    @DavidRandallCurtis Рік тому +1

    Great video! Thanks!

  • @ms4720
    @ms4720 2 роки тому

    there are paths through the woods, your videos and GMB are a well blazed path through the forest of good safe movement and strength.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому

      Thanks :) We are doing our best.

  • @SCarroll1973
    @SCarroll1973 Рік тому +1

    As always brilliant. What a way to balance out the muscle groups. Knee was diving me a few twings, some seiza and ohhhh so much better.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Wow, really glad it's helping so quickly. Just don't overdo it either :)

  • @petermapp5988
    @petermapp5988 Рік тому +1

    Excellent video

  • @MistahMolosser
    @MistahMolosser 2 роки тому +2

    What a great video! As a judoka I found the content very interesting and useful!

  • @ms4720
    @ms4720 Рік тому +4

    I have been following this program for 3 days, first 2 days were minute on minute off repeated 2 or 3 times. Today my body figured something out and trusted the movement and my legs relaxed into it. I sat for 7 1/2 minutes and got 5 minutes of meditation in. The padding was 3/8 inch puzzle mats one thick. Thanks again for the good work.
    I think the key thing is getting your hips on your heels, that way weight goes straight down and skips the knee.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Finding that alignment takes some time, but when you get it, the whole thing is much easier for sure.
      Glad you're working up gradually and feeling more comfortable :)

  • @tidalfriction5301
    @tidalfriction5301 3 місяці тому +1

    Thanks for the guideline!!! I want to reach this level!!!

  • @chenwatch
    @chenwatch 2 роки тому +2

    Very nicely explained. Thanks for sharing. I noticed that sometimes I do sit in it with the toes slightly crossing, with no certain preference. Cheers!

  • @MendozaTJ
    @MendozaTJ Рік тому

    Thanks for the guidance. GMB has been instrumental for my Seiza although I'm still working on Kiza :)

  • @samsonb3337
    @samsonb3337 2 роки тому

    Glad to know this is a safe way to sit long term, I've always found it most comfortable but had concerns it may negatively impact my knees and ankles.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +2

      It may not be healthy *for you* depending on various factors, but the position itself has been a resting position for hundreds of millions of people for centuries at least... :)

  • @mirandaadams4874
    @mirandaadams4874 2 роки тому +1

    Toes tucked under hurt a lot at beginning but doesn't take too long to get used to. Defo worth doing. Great video thx 🙏😊

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +1

      Discomfort is to be expected in unfamiliar positions, but we can adapt to them with some time, for sure :)

  • @AndrewHardacre
    @AndrewHardacre Рік тому +1

    Just watched this twice. I'm mid 60s and can sit back on my heels but struggle to hold the upright position for any length of time. Will have to practice more. Just taken up yoga too. The video is very helpful. Thank you.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Great - keep doing what feels good and keeps you active :)

  • @Erica-pk5lf
    @Erica-pk5lf 2 роки тому +1

    Love you guys :) still so great 😄

  • @jaronby
    @jaronby Рік тому +1

    Great video. Also the heels in proper position push precisely on the sciatic nerve, which important to remain proper posture...

  • @davidmcclatchey2133
    @davidmcclatchey2133 Рік тому

    Been doing this and horse stance daily for a few weeks now. doing only these two exercises and Im starting to really notice a massive positive difference. Thanks

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      What specifically do you feel changing?

    • @davidmcclatchey2133
      @davidmcclatchey2133 Рік тому +2

      @@gmbfit a lot of stiffness/ tightness in my knees and hips has been a constant issue for many years. I have been doing the two static exercises fairly consistent for a few weeks and it has made an amazing difference. I have tried so many things that has never worked but this is a game changer for me.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +2

      @@davidmcclatchey2133 Really happy to hear this!

  • @khomo12
    @khomo12 Рік тому +2

    Nice!

  • @thechadillac1211
    @thechadillac1211 Рік тому +1

    I feel ya bro, lived in Vietnam 17 years. No seiza there .But my static squat is dope.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      haha, yeah, you get better at what you spend time doing - I did a lot of squatting too :)

  • @The_Custos
    @The_Custos 9 місяців тому

    Thank you, I can already see this is helping, and I can take time each day to work on it before my next kendo session in two weeks time.
    Honestly, once I realised it was so difficult, this is what was bothering me the most about kendo. Cheers

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  9 місяців тому +1

      It's crazy how often small things like that can make us dread something we enjoy. It'll take time to build comfort, but I'm glad this helps.

    • @The_Custos
      @The_Custos 9 місяців тому

      @@gmbfit day 2, going well!

  • @yqafree
    @yqafree Рік тому +1

    Healthy and considerate, good work and advice.

  • @Currawong
    @Currawong 2 роки тому +13

    This is a nice explanation of seiza. I've now been here for over a decade, practicing Aikido, and I can sit in seiza comfortably, with my back straight.
    Some thoughts: Seiza is not a Samurai seating method (except in later history, and only in formal situations). It's a more modern method of sitting that nobody in their right mind who has to move quickly would ever sit in for longer than a couple of minutes. I don't think most Japanese people are aware of this.
    It might be worth adding that for sitting cross-legged, Japanese people often use a zabuton -- a cushion, if they are going to sit for any length of time on the floor.
    Women do not feel as comfortable sitting in seiza with their legs spread so far apart as you've shown, in my experience.
    Cheers from Fukuoka.

    • @ohno3608
      @ohno3608 Рік тому

      Idk man atleast they don’t sit in kiza

    • @The_Custos
      @The_Custos 9 місяців тому

      Yes, I did see a Japanese yotuber claim the samurai used to favour sitting cross-legged. The Edo period was when seiza took off.

  • @MrHihowryou
    @MrHihowryou Рік тому

    Thank you for creating these videos. I am interested to see any tea ceremony videos you may want to make as well.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      I'm definitely the wrong person to teach you that

    • @MrHihowryou
      @MrHihowryou Рік тому

      @@gmbfit 🤣 thanks for your honesty

  • @teemupuumalainen3051
    @teemupuumalainen3051 11 місяців тому

    I started months ago to be occasionally in a deep squat. Like while watching video or staring at the food in the oven. It has improved my mobility in gym quite a bit and in general better feeling in legs and lower back/core. During this video I tested seiza and I can do it but ankles and tibialis anterior(had to look up this name) are quite stretched and hurting so I find that good reason to start doing seiza regularly. Great video!

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  11 місяців тому +1

      Just be gentle and gradually get used to it. Same as the squat - with time and practice, it'll get easier :)

    • @teemupuumalainen3051
      @teemupuumalainen3051 11 місяців тому +1

      @@gmbfit Thanks, I will try to keep that in mind and not rush :)

  • @michaelstephenson9384
    @michaelstephenson9384 2 роки тому

    Awesome teacher

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому

      Thanks! been practicing a while... :)

  • @TristenSinanju
    @TristenSinanju Рік тому +1

    i sit-squat and sieza (including balancing while sitting on my heels while bored) with the toes up position pretty much all the time, because i often move between standing and squatting throught my daily. i sit in sieza while doing laundry... it's easier to reach things further away vs cross-legged... very practical.
    (toes up is my favorite)

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      I love toes up as well. Such a great stretch.

  • @eckyevans5437
    @eckyevans5437 Рік тому +2

    Back when I was young and doing a lot of karate training I could jump straight out of seiza, throw a kick with each leg one after the other and land in a ready position
    Being a lot older older now and having a collapsed fracture in my kneecap following an accident where I also snapped the tibia and tibia just below the knee I can't even get into the position now, your video came up my feed and watching it's kinda given me a push to start working on it, I'm back to where I can run on it now so if I take it slow I should be able to make some gains
    Really good video, subscribed to your channel after seeing it

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Thanks! Being able to get up very quickly and have a strong base under you is very important in martial arts, and that's one reason for some of the details in the way we show it here.

    • @paulgoogol2652
      @paulgoogol2652 Рік тому

      Holy crêpe. You must have been a machine!

  • @Scott-vd2le
    @Scott-vd2le 2 роки тому +2

    I'm from China. You can try to do it in a new level by separating your big toes BUT keeping the heel touched. It looks like English letter Y or Chinese character 丫. I learned it from my teacher Chi Song.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому

      Cool! Thank you.

  • @chiara.75
    @chiara.75 2 роки тому +7

    I really admire your training in martial arts🙏 your point on heel in contact with sit bones is gold 🤩 thanks Master Ryan 😊😊😊

    • @ryanhurst3068
      @ryanhurst3068 2 роки тому +2

      Thank you for your continued support! 🙏

  • @JEEROFUKU
    @JEEROFUKU 2 роки тому +1

    I’m a Zen Buddhist, who use to study Iaido and Kyudo. Siting in seiza for me as natural as breathing^^ ATB🙏🏻🍀❤️

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +1

      Yep! Some of us have had "a few years" to practice ;)

    • @JEEROFUKU
      @JEEROFUKU 2 роки тому

      @@gmbfit thank you very much for leading us correct way, Sensei!

  • @techramancer
    @techramancer Рік тому +1

    This is awesome. Very solid steps. I had been making progress on my own but my knee and ankle ended up getting messed up and it's almost impossible to get into the position. So I have to start over and I just haven't put in the effort yet. Hopefully now I will that I'm reminded.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      You really do have to take it slow with some of these unless you're already very flexible.

    • @techramancer
      @techramancer Рік тому +1

      @@gmbfit I actually tried this last night and surprising how close I was able to get to an almost upright sitting doing the method you showed. Thanks!!

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Awesome - thanks for the update :)

  • @matttcameron_
    @matttcameron_ 2 роки тому +2

    I tend to sit with my heels facing out. Your explanation of what can happen with that longterm is seriously making me want to work more on that heels straight up variation more often.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +1

      It's not awful if it's sporadic, but as a habit, you definitely wanna work on getting the heels pointing a bit more up.

    • @matttcameron_
      @matttcameron_ 2 роки тому +1

      @@gmbfit it’s definitely a lot less comfortable for me with heels up. Did it a lot when I was doing tea ceremony but not in every day life. Least now I’m aware of it

  • @VivianL-wm6gq
    @VivianL-wm6gq 21 день тому

    ❤❤❤❤❤🎉 LOVE THIS Thank You!
    Subscribing now 😜 👍

  • @pbworld7858
    @pbworld7858 Рік тому +1

    When you did seiza with the heels pointing out, the first thing I thought of was O-kyaku, and sure enough you said that. I'd never connected the two, and I'd always wondered why so many elderly Japanese women are bow-legged. But yeah, I do find seiza much better for the lower back.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      haha, yep! After getting used to it, seiza is a really comfortable and well-aligned sitting position :)

  • @ProjectAlphaPrimetime
    @ProjectAlphaPrimetime Рік тому +1

    Saw it one time in some cartoon anime when I was like 9 and its just the norm for me, seeing others struggle with it blows my mind because it just feels normal

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Like that for some people. :)

  • @chavezmarchant2766
    @chavezmarchant2766 Рік тому +1

    Is that Ichika Nito I hear in the background music near the end? That's awesome if it's the case. He is easily my favourite guitar player.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      He is the best, and you are correct :)

  • @mizukarate
    @mizukarate Рік тому +1

    I learned seiza in Goju Karate. I never crossed the toes before. However sometimes I used it to hold the position longer. Seems to take off the pressure.
    However if I am doing a quick sit I sit normal to get up quick as you showed.

  • @khunbilly
    @khunbilly Рік тому +1

    My right foot always cramps up immedicately when I sit in the proper seiza position. For some reason, crossing my feet, even slightly, takes care of this. (I take lot of magnesium and potassium, so I don't think it's due to a vitamin deficiency.) Sitting in the on-the-toes position also helps, but I can't sit like that for too long. When I'm sitting in on a grading session (2-4 hours), or I'm in a seminar with a sensei that likes to talk more than demonstrate, I'll also sit in the Indian position a lot of the time.

  • @sbyerley
    @sbyerley 2 місяці тому +1

    From Wikipedia: “A law that came into effect in April 2020 recognizes seiza for extended periods of time as a morally unacceptable form of punishment according to Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare.” Why? “Those unfamiliar with seiza will likely find that maintaining it for more than a minute or two tends to lead to paresthesia, whereby the compression of the nerves causes a loss of their blood flow, with the accompanying "pins and needles" feeling, followed by painful burning sensations, and then eventually complete numbness in the legs.” … “Experienced seiza practitioners can maintain the posture for forty minutes or more with minimal discomfort. Certain knee problems are made worse when assuming this position.”

  • @ganeshamouse
    @ganeshamouse Рік тому +1

    I have sat like this incorrectly since I was a kid! I think it shortened my achilles and led to plantar fasciitis. I miss sitting like that. Nice that maybe I can still do it if I do it correctly (and not for too long). Great info. Thanks.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      In Japan, there isn't really a single way to do it outside specific cultural traditions; it's just sitting, so it's pretty common to just do it however. Try it like this, like you said, gradually, and see how that feels.

    • @ganeshamouse
      @ganeshamouse Рік тому

      @@gmbfit Thanks! :)

  • @stevwal
    @stevwal 2 роки тому +2

    This is the video I need! I have practiced martial arts for over 25 years and I really struggle with knee issues. Making Seiza is almost impossible these days... so I don't even attempt it anymore. I'm going to work on this as part of my training. 👍

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому

      Sorry to hear that. It's getting more common, even in Japan to have knee trouble with this now. Seems like modern lifestyle isn't great for you... who knew? But be gentle, and you may be able to get some of that back. We do happen to have a lot of other videos and programs that can help ;)

  • @bujin5455
    @bujin5455 10 місяців тому

    My understanding of proper seiza is the knees are two fists widths apart, and your left big toe is resting on your right big toe. Of course, your heels are under your sit bones as stated. Also, I found the key to learning and mastering seiza was doing opposing stretches (articulating everything the opposite direction). Most people only do the obvious stretches, shown in this video. But it helps a lot to do leg extension stretches, hip rotation stretches, to try to lay back in seiza, sumo stretches, etc. The more general flexibility you have, in each direction, the easier this gets.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  10 місяців тому +1

      There are different ways according to different disciplines, I know. I spent 28 years in Japan and have seen many different ways. The way I'm showing here is what I've found to help the majority of people out there wanting to sit comfortably in this position.

    • @The_Custos
      @The_Custos 9 місяців тому

      Three for a man, one for a woman, two in between?

  • @delciodeluca
    @delciodeluca 2 роки тому +2

    Amazing subject. Thank you for helping us improve our mobility

  • @ThickasThievesLA
    @ThickasThievesLA 2 роки тому +1

    Nice video! First learned Seiza when I did tea ceremony, then we did it when I started learning jiu-jitsu (daito-ryu). When I am at someone's house in Japan and I'm sitting on the floor, I do instinctively sit in seiza. tbh didnt honest there were any health benefits related to it, but makes sense!

    • @ryanhurst3068
      @ryanhurst3068 2 роки тому +1

      Nice! I did daito-ryu as well for a few years. :)

    • @ThickasThievesLA
      @ThickasThievesLA 2 роки тому +1

      @@ryanhurst3068 that’s awesome!! 👏👏

  • @precioustraveler
    @precioustraveler Рік тому +2

    A “smaller” but very important goal for me this year. Regain my ability to sit and then COMFORTABLY sit on my heels (seiza style)
    Used to never be a problem. Then I lost it for a while after a knee injury, but I got it back and could sit in seiza again 2018-2019. But LOST it during 2020 (lockdown depression) I did not even try to sit this way for 2 years.
    I started working on regaining it last week and I’m already seeing some improvements. But just stumbled on this training video 😃 Now I can work on it a bit more intelligently and strategically. THANKS A MILLION, @GMB Fitness

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Oh yeah, that's frustrating, but if you're gradual and consistent, you can get it back :)

  • @FavianShields
    @FavianShields Рік тому +1

    I had no idea you lived in Japan. Very cool 😎

  • @robdixson196
    @robdixson196 Рік тому

    just watching this gives me phantom pains in my knees. All the same I am working toward a deep resting squat(also torture at the moment). This just got added to the list. :))

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      just be gradual and build it up over time

  • @petedisabella8811
    @petedisabella8811 Рік тому

    Great video!! Do you have any recommendations or exercises to help for the tate-hiza position?

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Not really, it would depend on what part of that position is causing problems for you.

  • @JensMHA
    @JensMHA 2 роки тому

    Interesting video, is there any modifications as to doing it with footwear or boots, especially ? It would/could be a practical posistion to be in when out and about in the field supplementing the squat and/or kneeling ones when working on ground level stuff.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому +1

      Depends on a lot on the boots - size, how much ankle bend you have... play with it and find out what works.

  • @WMDTVIDS
    @WMDTVIDS Рік тому

    Excellent video! We regularly sit seiza in our class, and use it throughout several katas. Any tips for..more seasoned.. practitioners to make sitting seiza for perhaps 15 minutes more comfortable? It seems it bothers many of us in our 50's, when in our 20's it was not an issue.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Build up your time gradually.

  • @shakt77
    @shakt77 Рік тому +1

    I know this is outside the scope of your channel but would you consider maybe a miniseries about moving to Japan long-term (kind of an expat thing)? Personally, I 'd be more interested in cheaper, more rural living in Japan but still close to the beach. I've been learning from you for a while now and you present information very well

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Plenty of great channels out there that could do a better job than I could. ;)

    • @shakt77
      @shakt77 Рік тому +1

      @@gmbfit it was worth a shot. Some people you prefer to listen to ya know. Thanks for all the great fitness videos

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      @@shakt77 Much appreciated. :)

  • @Glen-uy4jt
    @Glen-uy4jt 9 місяців тому

    Well explained, thank you. I noticed that if I bow low, in seiza, stretch my hands out as far as possible, I get a good stretch in the upper back and shoulders. Could you comment on that please. I found seiza by watching a Japanese serial and I found it self aligning, as you stated, and quite refreshing.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  9 місяців тому

      What might be happening is that you're experience a type of traction in the spine due to taking the pressure off and reaching out to lengthening it. Definitely a nice thing to do :)

  • @noirprncess
    @noirprncess 2 роки тому +1

    Interesting viewpoint about sitting butt between your legs. That is the popular position in yoga for hero pose.

    • @ryanhurst3068
      @ryanhurst3068 2 роки тому +1

      Not necessarily bad. Unless you sit in it all the time like some do over here. :)

  • @cherylhockey6179
    @cherylhockey6179 2 роки тому

    Good video. Though is it a good thing to practice if you have cartilage problem, ACL rupture , bakers cyst? I'm very active in variety of sports but kneeling isn't the best for me! Any thoughts? Thank you in advance

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  2 роки тому

      If it hurts, or if you have a medical condition that precludes doing it, don't do it. I'm flattered by your trust, but please don't ask me for medical advice; I am not qualified to give it. I am a nice and knowledgable person, but I don't know you or your situation like your doctor does.

    • @cherylhockey6179
      @cherylhockey6179 2 роки тому

      @@gmbfit Super thank you for your reply. Avoid doctors as much as possible!! I guess the person who knows their body best is themselves. Love your way of easing into the sit. I will definitely try this. Thank you :)

  • @Kamemom
    @Kamemom Рік тому

    Thank you for the detailed video! I’ve been trying to get into comfortable seiza for about a year now. My issue seems to be my calves that are screaming more than my knees when I’m fully resting on my heels. Any suggestions for what to do?

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Exactly what I say in the video - build up gradually :)

  • @doumkatekz
    @doumkatekz Рік тому

    Thank you. I'll see how I do with these stretches. I can sit criss cross no problem, but for seiza, I can't get my butt anywhere near my heels at all. Do you think it's possible to improve this with these stretches then?
    I've been looking at some of your videos and gads, my modifications need modifications. I have been doing barbell lifts the last couple years (cause why not start this in your 50s right) and am stronger, but mobility issues keep getting in my way.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Of course, I think it's possible to improve. Otherwise, it wouldn't make much sense to teach it :) It takes time and doing it correctly.

  • @olel.9963
    @olel.9963 2 роки тому +6

    7:02 is easy for me. However, when I point my toes backwards (like in the regular seiza) my feet start to cramp painfully. Any ideas how I can get around this?

    • @FranciscoTornay
      @FranciscoTornay 2 роки тому

      It used to happen to me, but I've been practising seiza for a while and I have no problem now. You must develop your plantar flexion ability. The progression Ryan proposes (using your hands for support) will help you. Other than that, look for ankle exercises for beginning swimmers/triathletes, who really need a great plantar flexion. Triathletes in particular usually need to work on this, to offset the stiffness that may come from running.
      e.g.
      ua-cam.com/video/GgW9s2phkLk/v-deo.html

    • @ryanhurst3068
      @ryanhurst3068 2 роки тому +6

      Go slow with very short duration of time (couple seconds), gradually working up to longer periods of time. As long as there is no pain, with time and practice it should get easier.

    • @ryanhurst3068
      @ryanhurst3068 Рік тому

      @Isak Tougaard Yep, same advice applies. Go slow for shorter periods of time working up to more time.

  • @privaternutzer7595
    @privaternutzer7595 2 роки тому +3

    Out of my own experience I can tell you that after more than 20 minutes this position cuts the blood to a way I can even not stand well up anymore and it takes me some minutes to be able to walk normally again. I mean I do it because of my karate tradition but not more than a few minutes.

    • @ryanhurst3068
      @ryanhurst3068 Рік тому

      Yep, sitting that long is tough and I also even have issues with my legs going numb. :)

  • @jz4901
    @jz4901 Рік тому

    Hello sir, fantastic content as always!
    A question if you have a moment: when I sit in this position, the top of my feet really get jammed into the ground, and that is the thing that limits my sitting in this position. At 2:20 you talk about having your heels point straight up, which for me, increases that pressure on the very feet bones that hurt! If I slightly roll my feet out, it's a bit better, but that is against your advice.
    My quads are also very tight and prevent my sitting back on my sit bones (Sitz Bones?) and heels ... that may be relevant.
    Any suggestions, or is this just a matter of time, pain, and patience? Cheers and best wishes, 有難うございます。とてもいい先生です。jz

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Well, you can't expect changing the way you sit to instantly be comfortable unless you've been sitting in an extremely silly way util now. Work up to it gradually and experiment with the alignment. If you think your quads are too tight, you might consider doing something about that.

    • @jz4901
      @jz4901 Рік тому +1

      @@gmbfit Thanks, I'm not expecting any quick fixes, was wondering if my issue was a common one. I'm working on other flexibility issues. Cheers! z

  • @Healthinyourhands-sr7kh
    @Healthinyourhands-sr7kh 4 місяці тому

    Nice explanation.
    What’s the location of your studio?

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  4 місяці тому

      We have trainers in a bunch of locations. Check GMB.io/trainers :)

  • @Nigromancy
    @Nigromancy Рік тому

    I think what works for me is buy switching toe positions when I'm getting tired

  • @VelhaGuardaTricolor
    @VelhaGuardaTricolor 2 роки тому +2

    4:31 scared me!! 😊

    • @ryanhurst3068
      @ryanhurst3068 2 роки тому +2

      Good thing I didn't have a sword in my hand. ;) Haha

  • @jamesgilmartin4641
    @jamesgilmartin4641 Рік тому

    Great video. I’m an Elements member but have not used the program in a while but plan to get back. Q: My challenge with seiza is that I am missing 30% of my plantar flexion so my feet won’t lie flat to the floor??

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Then do what you can do :)

  • @vinaygupta400
    @vinaygupta400 Рік тому +2

    It is called Vajrasana in Hatha Yoga practiced from ancient times in India.

  • @ikemaybedid
    @ikemaybedid Рік тому

    Great videos! What pants are those?

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Just some cheap uniqlo pants

  • @Pedreone
    @Pedreone Рік тому

    I've been practicing martial arts for about 20 years now. We're sitting in seiza quite a lot. In the beginning there was around 20cm between my butt and my heels. Now my butt touches my heels, but it's still nog really resting on it. If I have to sit in seiza for more than 10 minutes, it starts hurting and I loose the feeling in my legs eventually. Also, I heard it's not really good for our knees.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +1

      Yeah, I've sat seiza for over an hour on a couple of occasions, but it's not something I'd recommend ;)

  • @paulzottola5534
    @paulzottola5534 6 місяців тому

    Hi there. Quick question. Should we be trying to get our ankles together when we sit seiza? Or does it matter?

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  6 місяців тому +1

      No

  • @NickHazletonMusic
    @NickHazletonMusic Рік тому

    Wow. My ankles are really tight. I’m going to work on this

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      haha, yeah, we don't usually notice tightness in plantarflexion, but it's good to work on - just be gradual with it!

  • @plee972
    @plee972 Рік тому

    Interesting. I will try, though I don't know how far I will go...because of osteoarthritis on my right knee...range of motion is not the same on both legs.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      If you have a medical condition which concerns you, it's very simple - *Don't do it*

  • @a8lg6p
    @a8lg6p Рік тому

    Ajummas in Korea were like omg so formal! Relax! Aren’t you uncomfortable? But it actually is more comfortable for me, at least for ten minutes. Would love to be able to sit that comfortably for longer.

  • @marytsang1427
    @marytsang1427 Рік тому

    I was able to do the sitting position but I had cramps in my feet. I don’t think you covered what I could do to eliminate that. Thanks for any ideas.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      Time. You need time.

  • @stickamateur
    @stickamateur Рік тому +2

    i dont have pain in my knees but my feet when i try this, is that normal and will it stop with time?

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому +2

      Might be that you're not used to the position. If it's pain then I'd stop doing it. But if it's a matter of discomfort then try shifting your feet into a position that feels better.

  • @arleneportsmouth1263
    @arleneportsmouth1263 Рік тому

    I pretty much have always sat in this position even sitting in a booth or a chair. First week of February 2022, someone tripped me and I ended up tearing all of the ligaments in my left knee. Upon being dropped off at home, I was unable to walk or put any weight at all on my left leg and was not able to lift my leg to get into the bathtub shower. So I was washing my left foot in the bathroom sink and then I had my weight on my left leg to put my right foot into the sink and my left knee bent completely backwards! It was a very loud sound as if someone had just broken a very thick fat carrot. I was not able to get up and just laid on the bathroom floor for days yes I do live with a man but he's completely oblivious to me. So I finally crawled to my bedroom took me about 12 hours and was going to call the ambulance but my friend who tripped me told me he would pick me up and take me to the hospital. Yes he picked me up all right but it was past 3:00 p.m. and he needed to have his gin and tonic and said he would just take me tomorrow. Never did take me until a week later and he just took me to a walk-in clinic that was unable to do anything. So nine days after the incident I finally got my doctor to order x-rays and two days later she said that all my ligaments in my knee were torn and that and the end cap on my bones were broken off and that there was CFS flowing out of my bones which was causing the inflammation. So totally completely angry that both the person I live with and this person who tripped me at a casino didn't give a crap about me and how much pain I was in which is why I ended up causing all the tendons and ligaments to be ruptured. Never could get a ride to a physician to have the surgery. So now after being a professional gymnast for 40 years I am not even able to stand without my left knee constantly popping and feeling like it wants to snap backwards. So I have not sat in this position since February 3rd 2022. So question is, do you recommend me attempting this position knowing my history with my left knee? I really honestly never thought Anything could happen to me physically since I have always been riding my bike 500 miles a month and walking 60 miles every month as well. Just so irritated that someone could ruin my life because of his insane jealousy.

    • @gmbfit
      @gmbfit  Рік тому

      It sounds like you need medical attention for this and advice from someone familiar with your specific case details. I would not recommend trying this if you have any concerns whatsoever.
      You've had an awful experience, that's fur sure. Heartbreaking to hear. Please get physical therapy and take your recovery seriously.

  • @SMALLISLARGE
    @SMALLISLARGE Рік тому

    Which is better way of eating Sukhasana(easy pose-indian way) or Seiza(Japanese way)?

  • @alejandrovassallo4995
    @alejandrovassallo4995 Рік тому

    Hi from Argentina. Is it dangerous for the knee to do the rocking motion to the side where shins seem to move creating space in the knee caps? I don't know if I have made myself clear🙂