Dojo etiquette

The art of karate places great emphasis on the development of character via a code of behaviour from all of its practitioners, together with physical training. Mutual respect for Instructors and other students, as well as an acknowledgement of seniority must be maintained at all times. All JKAE students must behave in a way that enhances good conduct on behalf of their club, the JKAE and themselves. Instructors in particular have a particular responsibility as they can greatly influence the behaviour of their students both inside and outside the dojo.

Because karate is practised in a traditional manner and based around discipline there are several things you should and shouldn't do when training.

DO

• Bow on entering and leaving the Dojo.
• Address any teaching instructor as "Sensei", any senior grade as "Sempai"
• Say "OSS" upon receiving any advice or command from the instructor
• Say "OSS" when bowing at the start or finish of the class
• Say "OSS" when bowing to your partner in kumite
• Train at your designated lesson and at least twice a week
• Keep fingers and toe nails clean and short
• Keep your "Gi" clean and in good condition
• Ask your instructor or higher grades for advice
• Show respect to each other
• Tell your instructor before the lesson if you have a injury
• Tell your instructor before the class if you must leave early

DON'T

• Leave the class without your instructor's permission
• Arrive late for training (if you do, warm up outside then kneel at the front of the Dojo, wait to be asked to enter then bow and join the class)
• Wear any jewellery in the Dojo (rings which won't come off must be covered with tape)
• Use offensive language or behaviour in the Dojo
• Use your Karate skills outside of the Dojo (except for self defence or the defence of other within the law)