Since you are now a karate student and have acquired new discipline, you should know that there are a few unwritten guidelines to make it easier for you to study karate in the traditional manner.

  1. In the martial arts, your word is your bond. Your integrity is an important part of your martial arts training. Do NOT break your word!
  2. Never use any foul or obscene language in the dojo.
  3. Please remember to take off your shoes on your way to the change room. All valuables should be left at home.
  4. Once you are a student, remember to address the head instructor as SENSEI. Nothing else is allowed. Sensei means "Teacher" (lit. ~'Man who has gone before')
  5. Remember to bow before entering or exiting the dojo. Bowing is the traditional way of expressing your respect and gratitude to your instructor and fellow students.
  6. When your Sensei enters the dojo, it is customary to for the black belt teaching or assisting to call the entire class to attention to show respect.
  7. Please remember that class starts and ends on time. Should you be late, be sure to observe etiquette by not walking into class but by kneeling at the back door of the dojo and waiting to be admitted.
  8. Once class has begun, never leave the dojo without permission. Do not talk to people who are looking in on the class or walking by, etc. If you don't feel well in class raise your hand, get the instructor's attention and you will be excused.
  9. Keep your uniform clean at all times. Repair any rips and be sure to sew your club crest on the left lapel over your heart.
  10. Should your uniform come undone while you are in class, etiquette requires that you turn away from the front of the dojo and/or your partner, kneel on one knee and repair the damage.
  11. Keep in mind, you are one of many. Be neat. Have deep pride in your school and show it by cleaning up after yourself.
  12. Training in class at least twice a week is beneficial to get the most out of your training.

REMEMBER: Karate starts and ends with COURTESY and RESPECT for each other at all times, both inside and outside the Dojo.

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2/20/2012