How do I tie my belt?
I notice the karate students bowing. When
do I bow?
- when entering or leaving the dojo
- at the start and end of each class
- before leaving the line-up in group class
- before and after sitting in seiza (on your knees) or anza (Indian-style)
- to acknowledge instruction from Sensei
- when greeting a Blackbelt
- as requested by Sensei
How do I address Sensei or a blackbelt?
- Sensei is always addressed as "Sir" or "Sensei," even
outside the dojo.
- Sir" or "Sensei" should follow responses to
all questions.
- Do not address a blackbelt by their first name. All Blackbelts
should be address as "Sir"/"Ma’am" or "Mr."/"Ms."
I’ve decided to start karate classes. How will my group
class begin?
- Please use the Parent’s Pit area to stretch and wait quietly for
permission to be given to enter the practice floor (mats).
- Students participating in the group classes line up when Sensei
or the instructor calls the class to do so. You will line up in
order of rank: highest belt to lowest. Classes are attended various
ranks. Do not be intimidated or disturbed by this: the classes are
carefully designed to accommodate all ranks and are often divided
for many activities by belt level. Your only focus is yourself!
Please feel free to watch and learn from the higher belts; you can
benefit from their experience.
- Group classes always begin and end with "bowing in".
If you arrive late, you will need to do push-ups (10 for each belt
level) and wait to be allowed on the practice floor. Late arrivals
must line up in the back of the class.
I know I have to wear a uniform.
What is required?
- Students wear a black or white gi to classes or lessons unless
Sensei requests otherwise. During the hot summer months, under
belts may be permitted to wear an official Karate Dojo T-shirt tucked
neatly into gi pants.
- Your gi should be clean and pressed with creases in the front
of the pants.
- Sleeves should be cut and hemmed right below the elbow; pants
should be hemmed right above the ankle.
- Females should were a sports bra under the gi top; no visible
T-shirts underneath.
- The belt (obi) is tied so that the ends are even. A staff member
will teach you how to tie your belt properly and you should learn
how to do it on your own as soon as possible. There are links online
at www.TheKarateDojo.com with a video available.
- If you must adjust your gi or obi during a class or lesson, turn
your entire body away from Sensei. This is the ONLY time you should
turn your back to Sensei!
- NEVER wear your belt outside the Dojo.
- During fighting classes, you may wear a Karate Dojo sparring gi.
What about other equipment such as
fighting gear and weapons?
- Sensei or a staff member will let you know when you are ready
to fight or learn a weapon.
- All uniforms, weapons and other gear must be purchased from The
Karate Dojo.
Are things different in fitness
classes for karate students?
- Remember that karate students should set the example at all times
in the Dojo, even outside of karate classes and lessons. You should:
- always give 100% effort
- follow the rules of the Dojo (such as no shoes on the practice
floor and bowing at the door) even when it’s inconvenient!
- not question Sensei in front of others: any problems can be
addressed later in private
- NEVER give up
Will I have to do push-ups
?
- Yes! Push-ups are a training tool to help you improve both mentally
and physically. If you ever have to do push-ups for Sensei, you
should never get up from the lean position until you are given permission.
- Be sure to say, “Thank you, sir” when permission is given to you
to get up!
What are some reasons I might have
to do push-ups?
- being late to class or having to leave early
- failing to call Sensei "Sir" or "Sensei"
- calling a Blackbelt by their first name
- saying "yea" instead of "yes sir" or "yes
ma'am"
- talking out
- being disrespectful
- failing to bow
- dropping a weapon
- making mistakes in basics
- as requested by Sensei
Can I leave my gi at the dojo between
classes?
- Kicking Kids Kamp students are allowed to leave their gi and gear
at the Dojo in their designated area.
- All other Youth and Adult students should take their gear home
with them. If you leave your weapon at the Dojo, how can you practice?
- If you leave anything at the Dojo, it is under the assumption
that others can use it if Sensei allows them to do so. If you prefer
that others not have this option, you should always take your things
home with you. Just remember to be fully prepared for every class.
What about private lessons?
- Private lessons are just that: private. This is a privilege that
these students have paid for. No one is to interrupt a lesson.
- If you are at the Dojo during another student’s lesson, please
wait quietly by the counter or in the Parent’s Pit until you can
be assisted by a staff member.
What are the big sins at The Karate Dojo?
- DO NOT ASK ABOUT RANK (yours or someone else’s)
- DO NOT ASK TO LEARN ANYTHING NEW (Sensei will let you know when you
are ready)
- DO NOT ASK SENSEI TO EVER "PERFORM"
- DO NOT CRY IN THE DOJO (If you feel that tears are inevitable, ask
for permission to go outside)
This may seem like a long list of the rules, but do not
be intimidated. It is all about respect. Respect yourself, your fellow
students, your Sensei and Karate. Our Sensei is one of the most demanding
individuals you will ever encounter. He will push you harder than you
ever thought you could go! He has a gift for helping others reach their
full potential. If you allow him, he will do the same for you!
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