Dojo Manners & Rules

A training hall where Japanese/Okinawan Martial arts is practiced and taught is called a Dojo. Even thought Triad's room is a multi-purpose room, is can still be referred to as a Dojo while karate training is in session. Because our hall is not a dedicated hall, we tend to be less strict about some Dojo etiquette, but It is important that students be aware of the etiquette and practice it for when they visit other Dojo's. Some people in other Dojos may mis-interpret improper etiquette as disrespect.

Below are the Hombu Dojo's manners and rules, modified for our facility

The dojo is a special place where we train ourselves both physically and mentally. Students should respect each other and the dojo by observing the following manners and rules:

1. Always show courtesy, politeness, respect, and kindness to all. Cooperation is key.

2. Observe the training schedule by arriving early and being prepared for class. If you’re late, change immediately, and then wait for permission from the instructor before entering the training area.

3. When arriving early, if another class is in session, do not disturb the class.

4. Karate dues are for the karate class only. If you want to use the other equipment or attend other Triad sponsored classed, please see Triad personal about a membership.

5. Shoes should be removed when entering the dojo.

6. When entering or leaving the training area, show your respect by bowing.

7. Your gi should be kept clean and neat. Wearing jewelry or hair ornaments is not allowed and your fingernails and toenails should be kept short to prevent injury to other students and yourself.

8. When the instructor calls for training to begin, line up quickly.

9. Bow to the instructor, senior students, and each other with appreciation and respect.

10. Training with cuts or open sores is strictly prohibited unless properly covered. If injured while training, stop immediately and ask permission to obtain first aid supplies.

11. When adjusting your clothing or wiping perspiration from your face, always turn away from the instructor.

12. During class, kata should be performed with kime (focused power). If you become tired, rather than proceed weakly, rest for a short period and then continue.
     

13. Never leave the class for water, or early dismissal, without first getting permission.

14. Listen carefully to the advice and instructions given to you. Don’t forget to thank the instructor and senior student(s) to show that you have heard and understood their comments.

15. Sempai (senior students) are responsible for setting the example of cooperation and conduct in the dojo. Kohai (junior students) should observe closely the actions of the sempai to correctly further their learning.

16. Sempai should keep this in mind, and set the proper example. Sempai should take the lead in explaining and correcting Kohai's behavior.

17. Don’t talk in class except to ask or answer a question. While observing training, always stand, kneel, or sit in a proper way and do not bother others by talking.

18. No sparring is allowed below 1^st kyu rank without permission. Fooling around can result in injuries and is absolutely prohibited.

19. Any outside activities (fighting, etc.) that bring discredit to Sensei, the school, karate-do, or the student are sufficient reason for dismissal. Any incident that occurs should be reported to Sensei immediately.

20. If injured, it is recommended that you still come to the dojo and learn by observing training.

21. You should advise Sensei if you have to temporarily discontinue your training.

22. It’s your obligation to pay your agreed upon dues in a consistent and timely manner. If you’re having temporary financial difficulties, you should discuss it with Sensei prior to being late. Monthly payments are due on or before the 1^st class of the month.

23. Make the class instructor aware of any injuries or sickness prior to class.

24. Improvement in you skills requires regular attendance. Attendance of less than twice a week over a sustained period of time will stop your progress, and eventually you will slip backwards.

25. If visiting another dojo, please review the student guide on the hombu's web page, www.ihadojo.com

26. Kobudo is not currently practiced at Triad. While everybody is welcome to join the RyuKyu Suidi Original Kobujutsu Association, it requires a considerable commitment of time and energy. Karate MUST be placed before Kobudo, so it is advised that you wait until you skill level at empty hand is sufficient before making this extra commitment