A student who cannot understand any part of this code of conduct should seek advice from an instructor or senior student.
An approved instructor is in charge of the Dojo. He/she is referred to as SENSEI (sen-say). Any assistant instructor or higher graded student is referred to as SEMPAI, and other students are KARATE-KA.
Karate-ka train in white training clothes called a “GI”, together with the appropriate coloured belt (OBI) for their grade. A badge symbolising the GoJu Ryu motif should be worn.
Students should try not to be late for training.
Existing students will introduce themselves to, and always welcome, new students.
Students will bow when entering and leaving the dojo. If a senior student is standing behind you at the entrance, let him/her go first.
Footwear is not permitted on the the dojo floor at any time.
No jewellery shall be worn (including wedding rings). If you are unable to remove jewellery, make sure it is securely taped over.
Students should attend with good personal hygiene and clean attire. Finger and toe nails should be kept short to prevent injury to others.
Karate-ka will not eat or chew gum at any time in the Dojo.
No karate-ka will swear in the Dojo at any time.
Whilst observing training, karate-ka will sit in SEIZA (kneeling) or stand without leaning or slouching.
Karate-ka will acknowlege opponents and any correction of their training by Sensei or a Sempai with the word OUS (pronounced “oos”). At the beginning and end of an exercise, particularly a sparring or grappling exercise, students will shake hands with their opponent as a sign of good will, respect and fair play.
The instructors call of “SHUGO” signifies the beginning of training and all students will line up smartly in grade order. Students joining a line which has already formed will do so from behind, not from the front.
When the instructor calls “YAME (yah-may)”, all students must immediately cease their activity and stand in readiness. This is to ensure safe conduct and prevent injury.
Before training begins and after training ends the instructor and the students carry out “MOKUSO” (Kneeling Meditation). During Mokuso breathing should be controlled (breathe in through the nose, out from the mouth, exhaling the air from deep within the abdomen). The purpose of Mokusu is to relax and clear the mind and to allow any cares or anger to go away before commencing training. After training Mokuso should be used as a time to reflect on what has been taught.
