Dojo Rules
The following rules should be followed in the dojo:
- Arrive 10-15 minutes before class; let sensei know if you have to arrive late or leave early
- The chief instructor for the dojo should be called sensei
- All black belts should be called sempai
- Always bow when entering or leaving the dojo
- Bow to Sensei when you first come to class
- Answer “osu” when acknowledging an instructor's direction in class
- Stand straight and listen attentively when the instructors are speaking
- No leaning on walls or laying around the dojo
- There should be minimal talking during class times
- Uniforms must be kept clean
- Finger & toe nails should be kept short
- No jewelry should be worn during class
- No chewing gum or candy during class
- Always leave your belongings neat and in order in the dojo or change rooms
Dojo Etiquette
Karate is oriental in origin and philosophy and follows a practice of respect to the
founders. As well, karate is a truly international activity and the etiquette used in
karate forms a common bond around the world.
"Osu" - This term is used frequently in the dojo and is derived from “Onore Wa
Shinobu”, meaning “I will persevere”. The usage of the term is broad and usually
indicates an attitude of respect. Examples of such usage are:
- When first entering or leaving the dojo in conjunction with a standing bow [nitsu-rei]
made in the direction of the “kamiza” [also called "shomen"],
- At the beginning and ending of a class under the direction of the sempai, in
conjunction with a kneeling bow [zarei],
- When answering 'yes' to a question directed at you by the instructor
- In response to a direction given by the instructor to the class [this indicates
you understood the direction].
Related Terminology
** Note: Additional terminology can be found by visiting the 'TERMINOLOGY'
page of this site. **
Kamiza - Also called "shomen", kamiza [upper seat] is a prominent feature of the dojo
which is easily recognized by the traditional pictures of the founders. This is
the focal point to which zarei is directed at the beginning and end of the class.
Zarei - a kneeling bow performed under the direction of the sempai at the beginning
and end of the class.
Ritsu-rei - a standing bow performed when entering or leaving the dojo, before and
after partner practice, and when first greeting the dojo sensei.
Sensei - A literal translation is teacher; however, it is a term that is usually reserved
for the chief instructor of a dojo, holding dan rank, or visiting instructors from other
schools holding the rank of 4th dan or higher.
Sempai - students ranked higher than you should be called sempai.
