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Dojo Etiquette
This page is meant as a guideline for proper etiquette
within the dojo. Information will be added
as it becomes available. If you have questions or would like to
see specific topics added to this list,
please e-mail them to
Shihan.
Domo arigato.
Bowing - Entering
the Dojo - Class Protocols -
Gi & Obi - Money
- Testing
Bowing
- It is proper to bow when entering or leaving the dojo, asking a
question, or addressing a black belt.
- When bowing to a higher rank, lower your eyes. When bowing
to a lower rank, keep your eyes up. When bowing to someone of
the same rank as yourself... you're on your own on that one!
- Always bow before and after working with a partner, which shows
proper courtesy and respect to the person with whom you are working.
We also bow before and after performing a kata, to show respect to the
kata. (Shihan wasn't kidding when he said that your kata should
be like an old, dear friend.)
- In kumite, always bow before and after each match. In this
case, always keep your eyes on your partner, regardless of rank.
- When someone has been promoted, congratulate them by first bowing,
then by shaking their hand.
Entering the Dojo
- Always bow when entering and leaving the dojo. In both
cases, this is a standing bow and is done while facing into the dojo.
It is most proper to lower your eyes when performing this bow.
- Every part of a karate class is important - right down to the
opening meditation and bows. It is therefore important to be on
time for class, so that you don't miss anything.
- If you are late for class, stand quietly at attention and wait to
be invited to join the class. (In our dojo, you will need to
open the door slightly so that the instructor will see you there.)
Class Protocols
- If you are asking or answering a question, it is proper to raise
your hand and wait to be acknowledged. This is not necessary
outside of class, or if the class is very small (two or three
students).
- If you are asking a question, it is proper to bow first.
Even more courteous would be to say, "Onegai shimasu" as you bow.
- It is not polite to ask what we will do during class. The
topics covered in class are the instructor's choice - he or she will
let you know when it is appropriate.
- If you need to leave the dojo during class, it is most proper to
ask permission first. During hot and humid weather, or
particularly intense workouts, the instructor may say something to
the effect of, "If you need to get a drink during class, go right
ahead." In this case, it is still courteous to check in before
stepping off the floor.
Gi and Obi Etiquette
- When adjusting your gi (uniform) or obi (belt), face the rear
of the dojo.
- Unless you are helping someone to tie their belt, do not
handle another person's obi.
- Keep your gi neat and clean - remember that your appearance
reflects on the dojo as a whole.
- Wash your gi, but don't wash your belt. Your belt is a
reflection of all of the dedication and hard work that went into
earning it.
Money
- Never bring money into the dojo. It is considered bad
etiquette to do so. Instead, any tuition payments, testing
fees, etc., should always be brought to the office.
- Please note that students will not be allowed to participate
in rank tests if any fees are owed.
Testing
- Never ask when you will receive your next rank. Your
instructor will invite you to participate in a rank test when you are
ready. Asking for rank implies that you do not trust the
instructor's judgment.
- Be on time for your test. Being invited to test for your
next rank is an opportunity, given to you by your instructor, to
display the fruits of your hard work and dedication. Being late
to a test implies that you do not value this opportunity. In
that case, you may not be allowed to participate in the test.
- Testing is a formal occasion when you will be given the
opportunity to display your knowledge of the martial arts. Your
gi should be clean and neat, preferably pressed, and you should be on
your best etiquette. Remember that you are there to represent
the very best qualities of martial artists.
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