RULES OF THE DOJO

(DOJO ETIQUETTE)

1.  Nothing is free.      
   
2.  All start at the bottom.  
   
3.  Everyone must train.
   
4. Always bow upon entering the dojo and to the Sensei.
   
5. No shoes on the mats.  Bow to your partner upon entering mat.
   
6.  Students should wear traditional gi or loose clothing.           
   
7.  Patches are part of your uniform but must be earned.
   
8.  Uniform should be kept clean and neat.
   
9.  Fingernails and toenails should be trimmed.
   
10.  Student should be aware of their personal hygiene before training.           
    
11.  No jewelry is permitted during training.  Jewelry can cause injury to the student or their training partner.  Safety is important.
    
12.  No gum, candy or food is permitted during training session.
    
13.  Cell phones should be kept on vibrate, so not to interrupt class.  Use of cell phones, blackberries and other electronic devices are not permitted during class except in an emergency.
    
14.  Student should arrive at class on time with full uniform.  Only wear non traditional uniform when authorized by the Head Instructor.  
    
15.  Students should line up in rank order.  The highest ranks are on the outside of the line and the lower ranks are toward the middle of the line.  The higher ranks are in the front of the class and the lower ranks should line up in the rear of the class.
    
16.  The opening of class should start when the students are brought to attention.  All talking will stop and all students will fall into line.  Courtesy should be given to the forefathers, instructors and all black belts. 
    
17.  Talking is not permitted once class officially starts except to discuss techniques. 
    
18.  Your instructor should be addressed as Sensei or Sir.
    
19.  Safety is everyone's responsibility.  Use caution while training.
    
20.  Sparring and self defense should be done in a controlled manner.   
    
21.  Safety equipment is mandatory during heavy sparring sessions.
    
22.  Your kata is the foundation of your style.  Practice your kata daily for proper form, application, and to develop your spirit/chi. 
    
23.  If the Sensei corrects your form or technique you should acknowledge by saying “Osu” or “Hai” Sensei.
    
24.  The student should always give maximum effort when training.  Train with a purpose.  Never waste time.         
    
25.  The student should obey all instructions given by the Senseiand pay attention to commands so they do not have to be repeated.
    
26.  "Yamei" means stop immediately.
    
27.  When you are observing the training you should sit in the proper manner.
    
28.  It is impolite to leave before class is over.  If you have a personal commitment, be sure to make arrangement with the instructor before class begins. 
    
29.  Students should bow and say “Osu” when entering or leaving the dojo for any reason.
    
30.  Class should formally end by bowing out just as you bowed in.
    
31.  It is the responsibility of each member of the dojo to ensure that the various needs of the dojo are met.  This includes paying donations/dues promptly, if applicable, setting up the mats, making sure the dojo, the mats and the training equipment is clean and put back properly.  These responsibilities should be carried out cheerfully, without complaint.
    
32.  You should take pride in taking care of your dojo, your Sensei and yourself.  This is also a part of your training.
    
33.  It is the responsibility of the high ranking members to see that the rules of the dojo are understood and followed by all members.
    
34.  The higher ranking members of the dojo should assist the beginners with their training and dojo etiquette.
    
35.  Ranking members of the dojo should not abuse their authority or knowledge.  Skills learned should be used to avoid confrontation and injury. 
    
36.  Students should participate in events given by the dojo and support outside events that the Sensei supports.
    
37.  Your dojo is your second family and respect should be shown to each other in and outside of class. 
    
38.  Always remember karate is more than a sport or a means of staying physically fit.  KARATE IS A WAY OF LIFE.   
    

-MASTER DAVE THOMAS, 7TH DAN

KARATEDO

1. WE ARE PROUD TO BE KARATE PEOPLE

2. WE SHALL ALWAYS PRACTICE AND STUDY KARATE

3. WE S HALL ALWAYS BE QUICK TO SEIZE OPPORTUNITIES

4. WE SHALL ALWAYS PRACTICE PATIENCE

5. WE SHALL ALWAYS KEEP THE FIGHTING SPIRIT OF KARATE

6. WE SHALL ALWAYS  BLOCK SOFT AND HIT  HARD

7. WE SHALL ALWAYS BELIEVE THAT NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE

8. WE SHALL ALWAYS DISCARD THE BAD

9. WE SHALL ALWAYS KEEP THE GOOD

10. WE SHALL ALWAYS BELIEVE IN OURSELVES, KARATE AND GOD

*The Karatedo is recited at the beginning and end of each class and must be memorized by all students.

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