Dojo Etiquette

Always bow upon entering and leaving the Dojo. This also applies when on courses in sports centres.

Whilst in the Dojo address any instructor as Sensei (no matter how friendly you may be outside the Dojo).

“Oss” is a sign of respect and is used in karate particularly in the following situations: -

When receiving any advice or command from the Sensei.

When Bowing at the start and finish of the class.

When Bowing to your partner during kumite.

In any other appropriate situation for instance during grading's or competitions.

No one should leave the class without first obtaining permission from the Sensei before the start of the class.

Any member who arrives late for a class must take up a kneeling position at the front of the Dojo and await permission from the Sensei before joining the class. Upon receiving permission, bow and then join the class. When joining the class do not walk in front of the instructor or the class (walk behind). Always try to be on time.

Do not come to the Dojo to watch if you are injured or sick without first asking permission from the instructing Sensei. If you can make it to the Dojo you can train. Your Sensei will use discretion where injuries are concerned. You will never be asked to do anything you are not capable of. If the reason for not training is financial, talk to your instructor.

Finger and toenails must be kept short.

Karate gis must be kept clean and in good condition.

Jewellery of any sort must not be worn during training. If you cannot remove a ring then tape must be wrapped around it.

Apply for a licence from the ETKF (English Traditional Karate Federation) not later than one month after being accepted into the Dojo. Please speak to your Sensei about this.

Students must not smoke, swear, spit or commit any other act likely to offend the etiquette of the Dojo.

Do not use your skills in any offensive way outside the Dojo.

Train at least twice a week.

Always behave with sincerity in the Dojo. Honour the Dojo Code.

Always train hard with spirit, especially when you are tired. Perform each kick, punch, and block as though your life depends on it.

Always try and enter into the true spirit of karate when you are training. This can be difficult sometimes but always try your best.

Try to train at least twice a week at the Dojo, this is the minimum required to make real progress. Whenever possible, practice everyday at home even for a few minutes. Remember - the effect of training is cumulative.

Concentrate on all demonstrations or when higher graded students are training and you are not.

Do not be too impatient to progress through the grades. Remember karate incorporates mind, body and spirit and takes time to perfect. If you fail a grading try not to worry but train harder. If you work hard and concentrate you will pass.

Always practice the three elements of karate – Kihon, Kata and Kumite and remember without Kihon and Kata there can be no true Kumite.

It is important to ask if you do not understand something.

Please tell your Sensei if you suffer from any medical problems prior to training.