Rules and Etiquette

When Entering the Dojo

The head instructor(s) will be addressed as Sensei.
Use the restrooms before class begins. However, if you have to go during class, ask Sensei for permission.
Bow whenever entering or leaving the dojo.
Arrive a minimum of ten minutes prior to the class starting time to allow you to put on your gi (uniform) and prepare. If you arrive after class begins, sit in seiza for two minutes in the back of the dojo, then stand and wait for Sensei to welcome you into the class. After Sensei acknowledges you, line up in the back row.
Place your journal in a location that is easily accessible so you can retrieve it quickly when needed.
Fingernails and toenails should be trimmed to prevent scratching other students during partnered activities and sparring.
Students must wear a clean gi at all times.
Students should always be helpful and courteous to each other.
Notify Sensei if you plan to be out of class for a long period of time.
Notify Sensei if you have any medical conditions that may limit physical activity.
While Sensei is speaking, students should remain silent and in the Open Leg (hachiji-dachi) position.
Treat your journal with respect; over time it will be a great teacher.
At the end of class, children must remain in the dojo until parents arrive to pick them up.
Senior students should approach and correct others not abiding by dojo rules.

Walking on the dojo floor with shoes (Leave your shoes at the door.)
Wearing any form of jewelry during class, except wedding bands
Chewing gum or candy during class
Horseplay or fooling around (e.g. such as running or throwing/playing with items/equipment)
Talking or inappropriate behavior
Touching another person’s weapons without permission of the owner
Leaning against walls or other students during class

Do not wear your gi top and belt to class. Place them on once inside the facility.
Karate can be used for self-defense in extreme circumstances, but should never be used to provoke or challenge others.
Do not discredit yourself and the Kodo School of Karate by voicing disrespect toward other martial art styles, schools, or instructors.

Safety is the number one priority.
Protective cups are strongly recommended for all male students.
No contact to vital points or strikes to the spine are permitted.
Techniques must target points above the belt and may not target the spine.
There will be no takedowns, throws, or sweeps allowed during the sparring.
Blind, swinging techniques are not permitted during sparring.
There will be no conflicts of ego in the sparring ring. Embody the spirit of the samurai by discovering your social responsibility.
Referees should call all points immediately and loudly, shouting the word, “Stop” in English or in Japanese (“Yame”).
When a referee stops the match, walk quickly (with eyes always on your sparring partner) to the place you began the match (between the two side referees).
If inappropriate contact is made, the person who made the contact will do ten push-ups after class.

The belt is a part of your uniform and should be respected.
Never wash the belt, air it out after class if necessary.
Never let your belt drop to the floor.
If your belt comes untied during class, stop and retie the belt while facing the rear of the dojo.
Never wear your gi or belt outside of class.

Class tuition is due prior to start of the quarterly sessions. Please register on time.
Belt fees or other payments to Sensei should be placed in the envelope in the Karate Box. It is not necessary to inform Sensei that money was placed in the envelope, as our school is based on trust.

Attend classes regularly.
Pay attention. Carefully listen to and observe Sensei, as well as the Black Belts.
Train to the best of your ability, regardless of whether Sensei is watching or not.
Treat every class as though it is a belt test.
Have a positive attitude. Remember, everyone was once a beginner.
If you are called upon to assist Sensei, do it quickly and with honor. Do not speak or move when Sensei is demonstrating with you, unless instructed to do so.
Observe class if you are injured and cannot participate; you can learn a lot by watching.
Work the techniques at home.
Meditate regularly.