Dojo Rules and Etiquette

• The students should observe the training schedule. Students should make every attempt not to be late for training.
  - When possible, call a senior belt if you are to be late or absent.
  - Excessive absence and /or tardiness may result with an interview with senior instructor or possible termination from the Dojo.
  - If a senior belt is standing behind you, let them “bow in” first.
• Upon entering the Dojo/training area, show respect by bowing toward the flags, or the Shomen.
  - If anyone is observed doing the contrary (or being disrespectful), they may be asked to leave for the training session... No matter who it is.
  - Wait for an instructor to acknowledge you, so you may come onto the Dojo floor. (*This is a traditional act of respect)
• Always be polite to instructors, senior students, guests, and elders.
  - Disrespect will be dealt with on basis of occurrence, but may result in termination from the class.
• Always try to keep your training “gi” (uniform) clean and tidy. Always practice in a clean training gi while in the Dojo.
  - Dirty uniforms may result in dismissal from class until an individual can meet appropriate standards.
• Students will keep their bodies clean and fingernails/toenails short, to prevent injury to others when practicing.
  - Bad hygiene may result in dismissal from class until an individual can meet appropriate standards.
• Be aware of your own physical condition and abilities.
• Students / instructors will not wear jewelry or sharp objects when training. (wedding rings are allowed without large protruding stones)
• Students will rei (bow) to the instructors, senior students, and each other with due appreciation and respect during the appropriate times in class.
• No candy or gum will be allowed in the Dojo training area.
• Do not forget to do warm-up exercises and stretching before practicing, even when you are practicing alone.
• While you observe training at the dojo, sit in the proper way, and do not stretch your legs out, talk to others, or play with hair or belts.(some warm-up stretching is permissible)
• When an instructor calls for training to begin, line up quickly facing the front of the dojo.
  - Poor attitude towards formation shows disrespect for those who wish to train, and the instructors. Those individuals will be dealt with accordingly.
• While training, listen carefully and seriously to the advice and instructions given to you and others - pay attention.
• When you use the training equipment, handle it with care, like it is your own.
• Students should not engage in idle talk while in the Dojo unless on break.
  - Kuchi Sumo (mouth wrestling / talking) will be dealt with on basis of occurrence.
• When and instructor gives you advice, listen carefully and sincerely. Do not forget to show that you have heard and understood what they have said.
• Do not forget to thank anyone who gives you advice on karate during training. Students should be courteous and helpful to each other at all times.
• If you injure yourself, do not practice until the injury is completely healed. Watch training during these periods, you will learn a lot.
• When you are done training, face away from the flags while taking off your belt, then bow to the flags (Shomen) with your belt in hand as you leave the Dojo floor.