Rules of the Dojo

DOJO ETIQUETTE

  • Always bow when entering or leaving the Dojo. This also applies when on courses in sports centres etc.

  • If the class has started, kneel and wait to be invited to join the class by the instructing Sensei, then perform Kneeling bow (don't rush) and join the class. Then joining the class do not walk in front of the instructor of the class. Always try to be on time.

  • When wishing to speak to your instructor  (in the Dojo) always refer to him / her as Sensei (no matter how friendly you may be outside the Dojo).

  • Always ask permission to leave the Dojo during the class.

  • Do not eat, drink or smoke in the Dojo.

  • Do not come to the Dojo to watch if you are injured or sick without first asking permission from the instructing Sensei. If you can make it to the Dojo you can train. Your Sensei will use discretion where injuries are concerned. You will never be asked to do anything you are not capable of. If the reason for not training is financial, talk to your instructor, it will be sorted out.

  • Never come to the Dojo without a clean (not necessarily ironed) gi. It is most unpleasant to train beside a smelling Karate ka. Make sure you are also clean, nails short, etc.

  • Always behave with sincerity in the Dojo.

DOJO KUN

ONE — To strive for the perfection of character
HITOTSU — Jinkaku Kansei Ni Tsutormuru Koto

ONE — To defend the ways of truth
HITOTSU — Makoto No Michi O Mamoru Koto

ONE — To foster the spirit of effort
HITOTSU — Doryoku No Seishin O Yashinau Koto

ONE — To honour the principals of etiquette
HITOTSU — Reigi O Omonzuru Koto

ONE — To guard against impetuous courage
HITOTSU — Kekki No Yuo Imashimuru Koto

GRADING RULES

1. That KYU Grades shall have a minimum of 3 months between each Grade, with training at least twice per week.

2. That 1st KYU to 1st DAN shall be 6 months before taking Grading and Members must also be a full 1st KYU before taking the 1st DAN Grading

3. Temporary 1st KYU must wait 3 months before taking a 1st KYU again then a further 6 months before being eligible to take Shodan.

4. Shodan to Ni-Dan - minimum time of 2 years.

5. To progress to higher black belt ranks, there is a required waiting period: 3 years for 3rd Dan, 4 years for 4th Dan, and so on. These timeframes ensure practitioners have enough time to refine their skills, deepen their knowledge, and demonstrate consistent growth before advancing. (You must be over 21 years to be eligible to take Ni-Dan and above).

6. If any Members fail a Grading, they have to wait a further period of time as stated by the examiner.

7. Members found to be breaking the Rules of Grading times shall not be recognised by S.E.K.O.

8. Students must be examined at least once in a 12 month period by a member of the Technical Committee.

9. That all Karate Ka must hold a Current License and Record Book, and completed regular training before they can take a Grading.

TRAINING EXPECTATIONS

  • Always train hard and with spirit, especially when you are tired. Perform each kick, punch, block as though your life depends on it.

  • Always try and enter into the true spirit of Shotokan Karate when training. This can be difficult sometimes if you are unwell or have worries, problems, etc, but always try. Remember there are many imitations but only one Shotokan

  • Try always to train at the Dojo at least twice a week, this is the minimum required to make real progress. Practice every day yourself at home or work, even for a few minutes. Remember the effect of training is cumulative.

  • Concentrate on everything, all your Sensei's tell you. Watch also with concentration all demonstrations or when higher graded students are training and you are not. Remember there are always three Sensei's present in any Dojo, 1) Your instructor, 2) Your ears and 3) Your eyes.

  • Do not be to impatient to advance to advance through the grades. Remember Karate is for life not just a few years. If you fail a grading it is not a slight on you personally, train harder for the next time. If you work hard you will pass eventually.

  • Always practice the three principal elements of Karate. Remember without Kara and Kihon there can be no true Kumite.

  • Read as much as you can about Karate and other relative martial arts.

  • If you do not understand something ask.