Dojo Rules and Expectations

The dojo is a place of learning and personal growth, where discipline and respect form the core of all interactions. By adhering to the established rules and expectations, each student contributes to a respectful, safe, and productive training environment. Here, we outline the essential rules and expectations that govern conduct within the dojo.

1. Respect the Dojo Space

• Treat the dojo with reverence as a place of learning and personal development. Keep it clean and organized, and ensure that it is a welcoming space for all who enter.

• Before entering the training area, remove your shoes and place them neatly in the designated area. This practice helps maintain the cleanliness and sanctity of the mat or training floor.

2. Salutation

• Upon entering and leaving the dojo, bow at the threshold. This bow signifies respect for the space, the masters who came before, and the knowledge passed down through generations.

• Begin and end each training session with a bow to the instructor and fellow students. This not only shows respect but also gratitude for the shared training experience.

3. Follow Instructions Carefully

• Pay close attention to the instructions given by the teacher. Always strive to execute techniques as demonstrated, and maintain focus throughout the session.

• If clarification is needed, wait for an appropriate pause to raise your hand and ask your question respectfully.

4. Maintain Discipline

• Speak only when necessary during class, and keep your voice low to maintain the solemnity of the training environment.

• Avoid unnecessary disruptions such as laughing, chatting, or any form of horseplay in the dojo.

5. Respect Your Peers

• Treat everyone in the dojo with respect, regardless of their skill level. Encourage and support your fellow students, and celebrate their progress as your own.

• Engage in sparring or drills in a controlled manner, always mindful of the safety and comfort of your training partners.

6. Practice Patience and Humility

• Recognize that learning martial arts is a journey filled with continuous learning. Be patient with your progress and that of others.

• Show humility by being open to feedback and willing to learn from everyone in the dojo, not just the instructors.

7. Personal Conduct

• Uphold the principles of the dojo outside of the training space. Let the discipline, respect, and humility learned here guide your actions in the wider world.

• Be a positive representative of the dojo community at all times, whether in competition or daily life.

These rules are not merely guidelines but are essential to preserving the sanctity and effectiveness of the training environment in our dojo. By embracing these principles, each student upholds the honour and tradition of the martial arts, contributing to an atmosphere of mutual respect and dedication.