Dojo Etiquette

Correct Dojo etiquette and discipline is essential to good karate. It ensures a safe and fun environment in which to learn and promotes good conduct in and respect for all students regardless of age, sex or ability. It is important that each student sets an example to new members of the Dojo. New students will be encouraged and, if necessary, corrected by senior students who are seen to practise such conduct.

Dojo Etiquette

Correct Dojo etiquette and discipline is essential to good karate. It ensures a safe and fun environment in which to learn and promotes good conduct in and respect for all students regardless of age, sex or ability. It is important that each student sets an example to new members of the Dojo. New students will be encouraged and, if necessary, corrected by senior students who are seen to practise such conduct.

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.

Any assistant instructor or higher graded student is referred to as SEMPAI, and other students are KARATE-KA.

All 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.

Existing students will introduce themselves to, and  always welcome, new students.

Footwear is not permitted in the dojo 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.

Finger and toe nails should be kept short to prevent injury to others.

Students should attend with good personal hygiene and clean attire.

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”, all students must immediately cease their activity and stand in readiness. This is to ensure safe conduct and prevent injury.

Each training session begins and ends with MOKUSO (meditation).