Dojo Ettiquette
The white belt can be worn once accepted by your instructor and although there are no gradings required first before being allowed to wear this belt, remember as a Karate student - you must respect the Karate Etiquette (below) as well as the Shotokan Philosophy.
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Bow upon entering and exiting the dojo.
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Be prepared before entering the dojo, have a clean white gi on, with your belt tied, no jewellery or footwear.
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Be prepared mentally and physically.
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Be punctual, if late for class, wait in seiza at the back of the class and wait for permission to enter.
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If you need to leave early, let the instructor know before class.
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Notify your instructor of any medical condition or injury.
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Keep toe and fingernails short and clean.
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Show respect to your sempai (senior), one another and your dojo.
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Respond quickly to your place or duty, do not keep the class waiting for you.
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Always bow before and after partner drills.
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Avoid lengthy questions during class. Think them out first and then ask the instructor after class.
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Refrain from disrespect by turning when adjusting gi, belt, sneezing, coughing, or yawning.
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If you are watching a class, clinic, grading or tournament, sit quietly at the back and do not talk, eat, read or move around.
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Students are expected to remain throughout an event, just like a regular class.
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No leaning against walls or placing hands on your hips.
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Arms are always to the side behind or folded in front.
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Always try your best, show strong spirit and enthusiasm.
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Train safely and smartly.
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Do not harm or injure one another.
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Notify the instructor if you will be gone for a long period of time.
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Enjoy your practice of Karate-do, remember, you will get out of karate what you put into it.
