Kyōtsuke (気をつけ or 注目・気を付け) is a command used in Japanese martial arts meaning “Attention!” or “Stand at attention!” It is the posture of formal readiness, used at the start and end of class, bowing, and etiquette moments.
There are two common spellings: 気をつけ (kyōtsuke) – “be attentive / pay attention” and 気を付け (kyōtsuke) – same meaning, more formal writing. Both mean the same thing in the context of budō. Note: It’s sometimes also written or called 注意! (chūi!) in non-martial settings, but in dojo culture it is kyōtsuke.
When the instructor calls “Kyōtsuke!”, students immediately stand with heels together, toes slightly outward, spine straight, arms straight at sides, and eyes forward with full stillness. This posture prepares for bowing. It is a discipline and focus command, not a technique.
The posture resembles heisoku-dachi (closed-feet stance), but heisoku-dachi is a stance whereas kyōtsuke is a command. You may assume heisoku-dachi when kyōtsuke is called.
Translation
気 (Ki) き means energy, spirit, or awareness
を (Wo/O) を is a grammatical object marker
つけ (Tsuke) つけ means attach, focus, concentrate, or direct
Kyotsuke (気をつけ) literally means to put your ki and is pronounced key-oat-skay. As a command, one would say Attention! Focus your energy! or Pay attention!
