Dojo Etiquette

Dojo Etiquette is one of the most important aspects of Karate. Dojo etiquette is simply the manners that one must know and use while in the dojo to show respect to all those who are more experienced and less experienced than yourself, the dojo must also be treated with respect as it is your classroom and your school which are provided at the expense of another so you must be grateful and treat it with the same respect that you show to your teachers.

It is required of every student that they arrive before the class begins however, if this is unavoidable then be seated by the door and wait for permission to join the class. Remember to be quiet outside the dojo to show respect to the class that may be currently in progress, allowing it to continue without disruption. Also, you should clean and iron your karate suit (Gi) on a regular basis and any jewellery should be removed but if it cannot be removed then it should be taped up as soon as possible. Also take into account that your belt is part of your uniform so treat it with respect and never drop it or throw it on the ground.

When entering the dojo, or stepping onto the mat you must bow at the door to show respect to the dojo and it shows that you are prepared to learn. It also signifies that you have left all your thoughts and worries about the outside world at the door so you are prepared for the class to commence. Remember to also bow when leaving the dojo, or stepping off the mat.

During the class, any conduct that may be considered rude outside the dojo is taken as very offensive inside the dojo such as breaking wind during the class can lead to dire consequences, its ok to laugh here, we do have a sense of humour!

 Whilst anyone is talking or explaining something, you must refrain from talking or distracting them from teaching. You must also remember that you must remain patient and silent if questions are being given or answered so if you have an answer, raise your hand and wait until the instructor notices you. Remember that whilst in the dojo, you must behave appropriately so swearing, eating, or chewing gun is not acceptable.

If you feel that you are lost or uncertain of something, remember that senior members are available to help so remember to imitate their behaviour and treat them with respect and consideration. One of the most important parts of learning Karate is to pay attention and listen, whilst in the dojo you must concentrate fully on the lesson because whatever is being taught, it is vitally important that you listen as you may bring harm to yourself or others if you do not.

Remember to always keep calm and never lose your temper, although you may become frustrated whilst learning but this is normal and every student has become frustrated at one point or another so keep calm, take in as much as possible of what is being said to you and you will learn, coping with the ensuing frustration is also a part of the learning process.

Lewis Clifford-Coote 15