Dojo Etiquette

Martial Art training is based largely on the development of discipline and respect.
Observing traditional etiquette is a fundamental expression of the respect that is due to the dojo, the instructors, and your fellow students. With this in mind, the following should be noted:

1.      Come to class in a clean unwrinkled uniform and make sure the belt is tied properly before entering the room.  

2.      When entering or leaving the dojo, stop at the door,  face the dojo, bow. If you arrive late, immediately upon entering the dojo, do twenty push-ups.

3.      Before entering the dojo, take your shoes off. Upon entering, one must be ready for class. 

4.      Do not enter the dojo during meditation; wait until warm-up begins.  

5.      Do not eat or chew gum when in the dojo, even if you are just watching.  

6.      When lining up, do so quickly and quietly.  

7.      Always acknowledge instruction - say "osu" or "thank you". Juniors should not hesitate to ask seniors for assistance but should remember that just as it is the duty of seniors to instruct, it is also the duty of juniors to acknowledge their efforts.  

8.      Do not talk unnecessarily during class.   

9.      During class, all karateka concentrate on what is being taught and on practice, avoiding distractions. One should not leave the class without Sensei's acknowledgement; it is perfectly OK to ask for a break if something is wrong (you're injured, you feel sick, etc.). It is also OK to ask questions and clarifications that are of general interest to your fellow karateka (individual questions can be asked after class). Unless absolutely necessary, do not interrupt class during an exercise -- wait until Sensei gives students a brief break in between sets. 

10.  While adjusting your karate-gi do it facing away from the front of the room and away from Sensei.  

11.  Before leaving the dojo during class for whatever reason ask permission of an instructor.   

12.  When class is over, Sensei will ask students to line up. Then we go through bow out. Then we recite the dojo kun ("rules of the dojo"). These are a set of five rules that were passed down from the masters of Okinawan karate, and are an affirmation of things we believe in and must keep in mind at all time:

● Seek perfection of character

● Be faithful

● Endeavor

● Respect others

● Refrain from violent behavior

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