Honbu Dojo - South Australia

Dojo Manners

The following rules have been included as a guideline of appropriate manners, when attending a JKA Karate Dojo.
It is a reflection of your character, as to how much credence you give to these rules.
It is expected that you will take note of these rules, and behave accordingly whilst attending training.

Karate students are humble and courteous. They do not criticise other students.
Karate students must never be boastful or bullies. Fighting outside of the Dojo is never permitted. A Karate student may be banned from further training if they are threatening to others. Karate is for self-defense only, as in the ‘Dojo Kun’.
Bowing is the customary greeting of respect, to the instructor and all other training partners. You must bow, as a sign of respect and gratitude, to any student that is willing to help you with your training. i.e. Your opponent during Kumite.
Do not interrupt the Instructor during training. If you have a question to ask, you will remember to ask it at the end of training, if it is of any real importance.
When late for training, you should wait at the entrance of the Dojo, for the Instructor to permit you to join the class. Always ask for permission before leaving the class.
Silent meditation, Mokuso, should be practiced before and after each session.
No smoking, or idle chitchat is permitted in the dojo.
Never play around with Karate techniques, Karate is deadly serious and should be taken seriously.
In all Karate practice, emphasis is placed on balance, accuracy and self-control.
Do not attempt to learn Kata, or teach them, without the permission or guidance of the instructor.
The Dojo is to be kept clean by all students. Keep the floor clear; pick up any objects that may cause injury. All students must take their turn at sweeping the floor. A clean Dojo makes for better training.
Courtesy and good manners are a must between all students. In Kumite, if your opponent makes a particularly good attack and scores, you should acknowledge their skill and then concentrate on developing your defense so as to prevent them from doing it again. You must never seek revenge on your opponent because you have a problem with you own defense.
Karate is a strenuous activity. Good physical fitness is necessary. Exercise regularly and employ good warming up procedures before training, as well as stretching and warming down after training.
Good hygiene is very important. – Wear a clean Dogi (karate suit) and wash yourself before training. It is always difficult to concentrate if the person beside you smells (the distraction could cause an accident).