Dojo Etiquette

Karate is about discipline and respect. Etiquette in the karate class is where it all begins. The points below should give you an understanding of etiquette within our karate dojo’s.

Bowing

Karate begins and ends with courtesy and respect. You are required to bow whenever you enter or exit a class. Bowing is a show of respect to the hall (Dojo) you train, and to your fellow students and your instructors. It is also a courtesy to bow to your training partners before and after an exercise.

Salutation

At beginning and ending of training sessions

Seiza! Kneel in formal kneeling position (Please note some dojos adopt a standing up position)
Shomen Ni Rei! Bow to the front of the training hall
Sensei Ni Rei! Bow to the Teacher
Sempai Ni Rei! Bow to the Instructor (or senior student of Black Belt ranking)
Otagai Ni Rei! Bow to each other
Tatte! Stand Up (Rise)

Greetings: Ohayo (Good Morning); Konnichiwa (Good Afternoon); Konbanwa (Good Evening)

Showing Spirit

A loud kiai is a perfect display of good spirit by yelling at the same moment when a technique such as a block or strike is executed. The choice of sound and/or word is yours. The purpose of the Kiai, however, is not only to release energy and relax the upper body muscles; it also motivates oneself and the class to work harder with techniques executed with power and sharp movement.

Focus

Students must remain focused and silent during class. You must listen carefully to your instructor’s commands at all time. You are required to try your best evetytime you train.

Mental and physical preparation

To ensure a safe training environment, students are required to train in a clean Gi, trimmed finger and toe nails, and removal of all jewellery. Remove shoes upon stepping onto the tatami (mats). If you put all daily frustrations and excitements aside, you will find training helps you relax and focus your thoughts. Any partner work should be exercised with control. Any injury before and during the class must be reported to the instructor in charge.

Shout “Hai” or “Oos”

Shouting “Hai” or “Oos” to show understanding of commands from instructors or teachers, also the verbal cues signify interest and good spirit.

Adhering to the above rules will reward you with many more fun and fulfilling classes, hence facilitating you to achieve success in karate and of life itself.