Dojo Manners & Rules
The dojo is a special place where we train ourselves both physically and mentally. Students should respect each other and the dojo by observing the following manners and rules:
1. All members shall not use Profanity/No swearing
2. The Chief Karate-Do/Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Instructor(s) shall always be referred to as Kyoju (key-OH-jew) or Sensei (pronounced Sin-say) by all students and parents. All Black belts may be referred to as Professor or Sensei (Mr or Ms is best), but should be understood that there is only one Kyoju/Head Professor in the dojo, unless his/her instructor comes to visit/instruct. All Brown Belts will be referred to as MR. ___ (fill in their last name – that goes for females as well)
3. Be on Time for Class. Observe the training schedule by arriving early and being prepared for class. If you’re late, change immediately, and then wait for permission from the instructor before entering the training area, be prepared to perform a minimum of 25 leg raises or 50 sit ups.
4. Always show courtesy, politeness, respect, and kindness to all inside and outside of the dojo. Do not criticize any members in a negative manner.
5. All Student’s and Visitors will remove shoes when entering the Dojo/Lobby and placed neatly in the area provided.
6. All members shall bow when entering and leaving the dojo. Bow to the instructor, senior students, and each other with appreciation and respect and when beginning a exercise or drill. Example - When wanting to ask sensei a question please wait your turn and bow
7. Your Do-Gi (Uniform) should be kept clean and neat. You will be obligated at Sensei’s recommendation to replace a uniform due to age and discoloration and other wear and tear. Wearing jewelry or hair ornaments is not allowed. Personal hygiene such as your fingernails and toenails should be kept short to prevent injury to other students and yourself.
8. When the instructor calls “Shugo (Shoe-go)!” line up quickly and quietly, facing the Shomen (Show-Man) (front of the dojo). Highest rank on the deck will call Kilskei (Kill-Ski) as soon as ANY/ALL black belt enters the dojo.
9. Training with cuts or open sores is strictly prohibited unless properly covered. If injured while training, stop immediately and ask permission to obtain first aid supplies. If injured, it is recommended that you still come to the dojo and learn by observing the training. You should advise Sensei if you have to temporarily discontinue your training.
10. When adjusting your clothing or wiping perspiration from your face, always turn away from the instructor and/or Shomen.
11. During class, a technique should be performed with kime (safe focused power). If you become tired, rather than proceed weakly, quietly rest for a short period (no talking) and then continue.
12. Never leave the class for water, or early dismissal, without first getting permission.
13. Don’t talk in class except to ask or answer a question. While observing training, always stand, kneel, or sit in Black Belt positions and do not bother others by talking. Listen carefully to the advice and instructions given to you. Don’t forget to thank the instructor and senior student(s), bow and quietly say “Arigato Gozaimasu,” to show that you have heard and understood their comments.
14. Sempai (senior students) or Jokyoshi (Joe-Key-Oh-She) are responsible for setting the example of cooperation and conduct in the dojo. Kohai (junior students) should observe closely the actions of the sempai to correctly further their learning.
15. Any inside or outside activities (fighting, etc.) that bring discredit to Sensei, the school, karate-do, or the student are sufficient reason for dismissal. Any incident
16. No sparring is allowed below a year experience of rolling without permission. Fooling around can result in injuries and is absolutely prohibited.
It’s your obligation to pay your agreed upon dues in a consistent and timely manner. Being sick or injured does not excuse you from your commitment. If you’re having temporary financial difficulties, you should discuss it with the Administration and let them know when you plan on returning to pay your fair share. If he/she wants you to continue training he/she will let you know, but don’t assume or expect their cooperation. In the event that you have to leave temporarily, continue training on your own so that you are prepared when you return.
