Karate Etiquette
Karate training would not be complete without the practice of Etiquette. If we didn't practise Karate Etiquette we would be missing a large part of our Karate training. We should value etiquette as it helps us set the rules of how we should behave in a Karate Dojo. This is particularly important as it helps to develop discipline and respect whilst enforcing some important safety rules. This brief outline of Etiquette and Tradition is to help everyone get the most out of their Karate training.
The hall where Karate takes place is called a "dojo".
We bow when we enter the dojo as well as when we leave. This is a symbolic gesture of humility and willingness to learn. It shows respect for the instructor and our fellow students.
Arrive 10mis early so you can sign in and warm up.
Students should not run around or play games whilst in the dojo, they should behave in a quiet respectful manner.
Students should refer to the instructor as "sensei" whilst in the dojo.
Fluid should be taken prior to training and during the break. This should be kept in a sealed bottle or like.
No food is to be consumed in the dojo.
For safety reasons, toe and finger nails should be kept short and clean.
No jewellery should be worn e.g. rings, watches, ear-rings or neck chains some rings and chains can be covered with tape, ask your instructor.
Students should not push for grading. A student can ask if they are ready for grading, but they must accept the instructors advice and decision.
At the start of each class the Instructor will ask everyone to line up with the highest grades to the right. Then we begin our opening ceremony which consists of a 30 second period of silence with our eyes closed, mokuso, to relax and clear our minds, then three bows.
One to past masters/the shrine, Shomen ni Rei, then to the Instructor, Sensei ni Rei, then to everyone in the dojo, Otagai ni Rei. These bows are not religious or ego driven. They are a sign of respect for the instructor and to everyone in the class, showing that you are willing to train and learn as to Karate Tradition.
Karate training would not be complete without the practice of Etiquette. If we didn't practise Karate Etiquette we would be missing a large part of our Karate training. We should value etiquette as it helps us set the rules of how we should behave in a Karate Dojo. This is particularly important as it helps to develop discipline and respect whilst enforcing some important safety rules. This brief outline of Etiquette and Tradition is to help everyone get the most out of their Karate training.
The hall where Karate takes place is called a "dojo".
We bow when we enter the dojo as well as when we leave. This is a symbolic gesture of humility and willingness to learn. It shows respect for the instructor and our fellow students.
Arrive 10mis early so you can sign in and warm up.
Students should not run around or play games whilst in the dojo, they should behave in a quiet respectful manner.
Students should refer to the instructor as "sensei" whilst in the dojo.
Fluid should be taken prior to training and during the break. This should be kept in a sealed bottle or like.
No food is to be consumed in the dojo.
For safety reasons, toe and finger nails should be kept short and clean.
No jewellery should be worn e.g. rings, watches, ear-rings or neck chains some rings and chains can be covered with tape, ask your instructor.
Students should not push for grading. A student can ask if they are ready for grading, but they must accept the instructors advice and decision.
At the start of each class the Instructor will ask everyone to line up with the highest grades to the right. Then we begin our opening ceremony which consists of a 30 second period of silence with our eyes closed, mokuso, to relax and clear our minds, then three bows.
One to past masters/the shrine, Shomen ni Rei, then to the Instructor, Sensei ni Rei, then to everyone in the dojo, Otagai ni Rei. These bows are not religious or ego driven. They are a sign of respect for the instructor and to everyone in the class, showing that you are willing to train and learn as to Karate Tradition.