Dojo = School of Karate	Karate-ka = Student of Karate	OUS / HAI = Respect, Salute / Yes
Mokuso = Meditation	Sensei = Instructor	Shihan = Master

RESPECT The Dojo is a sacred place to those who practice Karate. All Karate-ka must bow to the Dojo and Sensei upon entering to affirm their intention to train hard and seriously. He/She should also bow upon leaving to show thanks and appreciation for a good training session.  If you are not at the Dojo to train seriously, Go Home! Do not waste the time of the Sensei, other students, or your own time by coming if you do not intend to apply yourself.  To acknowledge instruction or constructive observation from your instructor, say “OUS” or “HAI”.  Lower belts shall respect and follow the instructions of the higher belts.  No idle chatter, smoking, alcohol, eating, or chewing gum is allowed in the Dojo.  Absolutely no profanity is permitted.  Remember, the Dojo is a serious place of study. When arriving after the start of training or leaving before the end of the session, Karate-ka Shall: Perform a kneeling bow at the edge of the Dojo. Perform 15 Knuckle push-ups. Sit in Seiza (Kneeling down position) until Sensei permits him/her to join the class. Bow again.   Karate-ka must inform Sensei if he/she is training with any other Martial Arts instructor. Karate-ka should face the Sensei or visiting instructor and bow when they enter the Dojo. We encourage all Karate-ka to practice good behavior, politeness and respect, both at the Dojo and outside the Dojo. We consider all students an important part of the Karate community. Should it become necessary to discontinue training for any reason, please notify the instructor.

ETIQUETTE All Karate-ka should wear pure white uniforms that are clean with no rips or tears. No Karate-ka will provoke violence or allow him or herself to be provoked into violence. Karate-ka will close their eyes and breath deeply from the lower stomach to achieve full concentration as Sensei calls for “ Mokuso ”. All students should bow when entering or exiting the Dojo floor. Once Class has begun, Karate-ka must stay inside the Dojo.  If any student is to leave during training, they must inform the Sensei and follow the proper procedures for leaving. Any member of the club may be suspended from the Dojo for not complying with any of the Dojo etiquette/Rules. Karate-ka are responsible for their belongings and should check that they have left nothing behind before leaving the Dojo.

COURTESY Karate begins and ends with courtesy and respect for others at all times. Karate-ka shall make every effort to attend classes on time. (Arrive 5-10 minutes prior to the start of class) Please notify the Dojo if you will be arriving late or unable to attend the class/special event. All students should observe silence during “Mokuso” whether in the locker room or the lobby. The locker room should be kept neat, clean, and orderly. Students are responsible for the safety and security of their personal property.

SAFETY A student who comes to class assumes total responsibility for his/her safety and physical condition.  Please inform the Sensei prior to class of any injury or condition which may limit or restrict your participation. The Sensei can design a special program for you, should this be the case. You should not spar without the express permission of the Sensei.  All students must wear proper safety equipment when engaging in a free sparring. All jewelry must be removed before entering the Dojo since it could cause injury to yourself or other students. No spectators allowed once the class has begun. (due to distraction) Karate-ka shall help to keep the floor of the Dojo clean, dry and free of objects.  Each Karate-ka should contribute in maintaining a safe and proper environment for training.

HEALTH & HYGIENE Never walk on any contest or training area when wearing shoes.  Shoes should be left neatly at the door. Personal cleanliness is essential.  Nails must be clipped regularly in order to prevent injury, feet and hands must be clean and hair must be worn in such a way as not to interfere with your training. You should not come to class if you are suffering from a serious or infectious disease for your own health and also the health of others.  If you are suffering from an infectious disease, please consult your doctor before returning to class.

Note Any Karate-ka participating in special events (Tournaments, Seminars, Camps, etc...) should report to their sensei at arrival and upon leaving.   JMA requires that all Karate-ka should be Insured with Karate Ontario Association. Karate-ka that are not insured with Karate Ontario may not participate in some Activities or Events. (For more info see Membership page please)

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