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Dojo Etiquette

All karate-ka Rei (bow) upon entering and leaving the dojo and always bow before joining or leaving a class
 
Punctuality is a sign of respect make every effort to be on time – However, if you do arrive late and the class has started - Then warm up outside the class, enter quietly then kneel down at the edge of the dojo – When you are acknowledged by the instructor you should Rei (bow) whilst kneeling and then quickly join the class
 
Be sure to inform your instructor of any ongoing injury prior to the class starting
 
Toe and Finger nails should be kept short at all times
 
Your Gi should be kept clean and ironed
 
Bad language will not be tolerated in the dojo
 
All jewellery should be removed before training – Jewellery that cannot be removed must be covered
 
Do not eat in the dojo – a drink is permitted
 
There should be no talking, laughing or unnecessary noise while a class is in progress
 
Always Rei (bow) to instructors and other karateka when seeing them for the first time and when departing. The etiquette is for the lower grade to bow first
 
In the dojo the senior instructor should be addressed as Sensei
 
Karateka acknowledge and answer sensei by saying Oss
 
The dojo captain is the highest grade student in the dojo excluding the instructor.

It is the responsibility of the dojo captain to ensure that lines are straight and that dojo discipline is maintained

Dojo Kun - Training Hall Rules

The Dojo Kun as detailed by Master Funakoshi encapsulates the philosophy behind karate. He believed these codes of conduct should apply to all aspects of life and are not confined to the dojo.
 
Hitotsu, jinkaku kansei ni tsutomuru koto

One must strive for the completion of one’s character
 
Hitotsu, makoto no michi wo mamoru koto

One must be faithful and protect the way of truth
 
Hitotsu, doryōku no seishin wo yashinau koto

One must endeavour
 
Hitotsu, reigi wo omonzuru koto

One must respect others and the rules of etiquette
 
Hitotsu, kekki no yū wo imashimuru koto

One must refrain from violent behavior 
(guard against impetuous courage)

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