Koshi mawashi (腰回し) is a widely used Japanese term, both in martial arts and general body movement training. In budō and traditional martial arts, koshi mawashi refers to the rotational movement of the hips — generating power, balance, and connection between upper and lower body. It’s used as a warm-up exercise (to loosen the hips and spine), and as a technical principle (hip rotation to transmit power).
Translation & Etymology
腰 (koshi) means hips, waist, lower back and 回し (mawashi) means turning, rotation, circular motion. 腰回し (koshi mawashi) literally means “hip rotation” or “waist circling.”
Related Terms
腰の働き (koshi no hataraki) “Function of the hips” – The active use of the hips in movement
腰を切る (koshi o kiru) “To cut/turn with the hips” – Rotating hips sharply for power
腰を入れる (koshi o ireru) “To put your hips in” – Engaging hips for stability and drive
腰を落とす (koshi o otosu) “To lower the hips” – Dropping stance for rooting
