dojo ettiquette

training in karate is a great workout for the mind as well as the body, but in any activity that is potentially dangerous, appropriate conduct is required at all times. karate dojos, as well as other martial arts, have their own etiquette which karateka are expected to observe. most of these points are matters of safety for yourself and your fellow students and could thus be described as common sense, for example waiting to be invited to join a class in order to avoid being accidentally struck by students unaware that you are passing. others points are intended to foster a sense of respect for the other karateka, as well as for the art itself and what one is attempting to achieve in the study of it, and their purpose may not be readily apparent to the novice. students are encouraged to think on such matters.

here follows a short guide to appropriate behaviour in the dojo; it is a student's responsibility to understand these principles and conduct themselves accordingly. etiquette in the dojo promotes safety and courtesy, but also helps to create a beneficial atmosphere to improve quality of training. the list given here is not exhaustive, nor is it rigid for dojos across the globe, but contains the essential points that all karate students should be aware of.

dojo rules of etiquette

it is important to learn to bow correctly - this is the first precept of the niju kun. you should bow to the centre of the dojo when entering or leaving, when greeting an instructor, at the beginning and end of the class (this is a formal kneeling bow), to a partner before and after engaging in an exercise (or sparring), and before and after a kata.

arrive promptly for training. if you are late, warm up quickly and quietly before waiting at the side of the class so the instructor can see you and invite you to join in. if you know you will be late, notify the instructor beforehand.

if you need to leave training early, notify the instructor before the beginning of training. when you need to leave, do not leave without the instructor's permission.

do not break lines while training; mental discipline is paramount in making your karate effective. the instructor will indicate whether breaks and/or drinks may be taken.

you must be properly attired for training. if you have a karategi, it must be kept clean and in good repair; if you do not, appropriate loose clothing should be worn to allow full movement. remove all jewellery, watches, etc that may cause injury. long hair should be tied back.

keep finger and toenails short; they cause injury but also can be ripped off during sparring.

there is no food in the dojo.

instructions from the sensei and/or senior grades should be followed quickly and respectfully. it is important to practice only the techniques presented for ability to be developed most effectively. when not involved in training, students should remain attentive.

lastly, it is the responsibility of the student to carry themselves correctly, to train to the best of their ability and to draw the best from their training partners. it is only through the correct attitude that progression can be made.