Bukon Shotokan Karate-Do: Sydney, Australia
Etiquette
The word Dojo literally means "place of the Way". The dojo is a place of learning. It is a place to respect, to keep clean and to care for. The dojo is a place to be made special for practising a special martial art. In the Bukon Shotokan dojo the observation of basic forms of etiquette is integral to the creation of a respectful and attentive atmosphere, which is conducive to learning.
At the end of each class, all students must recite the Dojo Kun.
Bowing
Bowing is an appropriate way of showing gratitude and humility, while at the same time placing one’s mind in a state of peace which is necessary for the right training.
When entering the dojo:
- Bow
- Bow to the Sensei
- Bow to the black belts in general
If you are late for class:
- Bow as you enter
- Assume Za-zen (kneeling position)
- Bow toward the class and the teacher in general
- Wait until the Sensei motions you to join in
- Then get up and join the class
If you have to leave the class early:
- Obtain the Sensei’s permission before the class commences
- As the time arrives you bow to the Sensei and wait for his/her acknowledgment
- Reverse the procedure shown above for late arrivals
General rules of conduct during class
- When warming-up before class, bow and say "Oos" when the instructor or a senior black belt first enters the dojo floor
- Bow when requesting personal instruction from an instructor
- When receiving personal instruction, remain quiet until the instructor has completed his explanation. Then bow and say "Oos".
- After the instructor demonstrates a technique, bow and say "Oos"
- Bow to your partner at the start and end of a training exercise
- Do not leave the dojo floor without first obtaining the permission of the instructor.
- Never interrupt the class to question unnecessarily. If you must ask a question, wait until an appropriate moment.
- Do not call out or interrupt the instructor while he/she is teaching.
- There should never be conversation of any kind while the instructor is demonstrating. When training with your partner, speak only when necessary.
- For reasons of safety, respect and courtesy, it is essential that the instructions of the Sensei be followed exactly. Many karate techniques can be dangerous if not practised properly. Emphasis should be placed on learning as much as possible through intense observation and concentrated practice and questions should be saved for when they are really necessary.
- Never argue about a technique. If there is a problem that cannot be resolved, ask the instructor for help.
- It is inappropriate for a student (including black belts) to offer instruction when he or she is not formally teaching the class, or has not been specifically requested to assist by the instructor.
- Always acknowledge orders with "Oos".
- Never come to train when you have ingested any type of drug or alcohol.
- Always arrive at the dojo with plenty of time to sign in, change into your gi, and enter the dojo floor at least 5 minutes before class is due to begin.
Dress and cleanliness
The dojo should be kept spotless. If you see something that indicates otherwise, for example, rubbish or dirt on the floor, don’t wait for someone else to correct it. This is part of your training.
Your gi should always be clean and mended.
Your body and, in particular, your feet must be very clean before you step on to the dojo floor. Keep fingernails and toenails trimmed.
No rings. watches, or jewellery of any kind should be worn during training.
The Sensei
Always call your teacher "Sensei", even privately.
Every instructor is treated with respect at all times.
Never compare one instructor with another. Every Sensei has something unique to share with you. Your job is to discover it.
Your attitude
Always enter the dojo with an empty mind. If you presume to know already, then it will be difficult for you to learn.
Any negative feelings you might be harbouring must be left outside the dojo. There is no place for them inside.