How do I tie my belt?
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I notice the karate students bowing. When do I bow?
- when entering or leaving the dojo
- 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
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I know that "bP" teaches kickboxing, but "Sensei" teaches karate. How do I address Sensei?
- Sensei is always addressed as "Sir" or "Sensei".
- "Sir" or "Sensei" should follow responses to all questions. (All black belts should be called "Sir" or "Ma’am").
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I’ve decided to start with group classes! How will my group class begin?
- Students participating in the group classes line up when Sensei calls the class to do so. You will line up in order of rank: highest belt to lowest. You may see higher-ranking belts attending lower-belt classes. Do not be intimidated or disturbed by this: the focus of the class will be on the belt color for that class. Higher ranks are there only for the extra practice and to improve their basic skills.
- 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.
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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.
- Your gi should be clean and pressed with creases in the front of the pants.
- Sleeves may be cut and hemmed or rolled up; pants should be hemmed.
- A sports bra should be worn under the gi top; no visible T-shirts underneath.
- The belt (obi) is tied so that the ends are even. Sensei will teach you how to tie your belt properly and you should learn how to do it on your own as soon as possible.
- 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 unless you are having an outdoors lesson.
During fighting classes, you may wear gi pants with a karate dojo T-shirt.
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What about other equipment such as fighting gear and weapons?
- Sensei will let you know when you are ready to fight or learn a weapon.
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Are things different in kickboxing 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.
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Will I have to do push-ups
- 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.
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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"
- saying "yea" instead of "yes sir"
- talking out
- being disrespectful
- failing to bow
- dropping a weapon
- making mistakes in basics
- as requested by Sensei
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Can I leave my gi at the dojo between classes?
- iIf 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.
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What about private lessons?
- Private lessons are just that: private. This is a privilege that these students have paid for. No one is to sit and watch unless you have been requested to do so by Sensei. If you are at the dojo to do weights, you should do them in the front room and be as quiet as possible during the lesson. If you are the next on the schedule, you may stretch out in the corner of the practice floor, but you should remain silent.
- Do not walk through the practice floor while a lesson is taking place until Sensei allows you to do so. Wait on the green carpet until you are acknowledged.
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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).
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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