Dojo Etiquette
「空手道は礼に始まり、礼に終わることを忘れるな」
“Never forget: karate begins with respect, and ends with respect” - Gichin Funakoshi
Dojo etiquette is an incredibly important part of karate training. Following the correct code of conduct in the dojo is an expression of respect, honour, courtesy, self-discipline, appreciation, kindness and sincerity for those who have come before you, for those from whom you will learn, for those with whom you will train, for those who you may teach, and for yourself.
Here are some common etiquette manners one should follow inside the dojo:
Bow when entering and leaving the Dojo.
Always acknowledge the instructor when he/she enters the Dojo.
Warm up on your own before the class starts.
Line up in grade order. Senior belts at the front to white belts and beginners at the back.
If you are late and the class has begun, kneel in the Seiza position at the back of the Dojo and wait for the Sensei to invite you to join the class.
Ask permission to leave the class - for any circustance.
Listen means not to talk. It is disrespectful to the Sensei and to other students.
Acknowledge instructions with “Hai!” Or “Hai Sensei!”.
Do not walk through the rows of students. Walk around the outside or between rows.
Wear a clean Gi with a correctly tied Obi.
Only white singlets or t shirts are allowed under a Gi.
Do not wear jewellery when you train.
Do not walk in front of your Sensei and other senior students. Walk behind.
Sit cross legged. Do not sit with legs outstretched.
Do not lean on the walls or sit on the benches.
Leave all personal items neatly outside the Dojo.
Leave equipment neatly to the side when not in use.
Do not leave your belt on the floor.
Do not eat when training.
Students should never use their skills, except in self-defence.
Demonstrate your utmost courtesy in regards to anything that concerns karate or your dojo, whether during training or not, both on and off the premises and especially when representing your dojo.
