Dojo Etiquette – Saratoga Shotokan Karate Dojo

Karate is dangerous so proper observance of etiquette is as important to our training as is learning the physical techniques of Karate.

Please follow the etiquette below at all SKA dojos:

Remove your shoes before entering the dojo.
Bow each time you enter or leave the dojo.
Try not to be late for class. If you are late, enter the dojo quietly and wait at the back of the class until the instructor asks you to join the practice. You should then bow and join the class.
The dojo is a formal place where all participants must wear a gi-do (a plain white karate uniform). Wash your gi-do regularly and keep it in good condition.
Remove your watch and all jewelry before practice to avoid injury to you and others.
Keep your finger and toe nails cut short to avoid injury to others. Maintaining personal cleanliness is an act of consideration and respect for yourself and others.
No food or beverages are permitted in the dojo during practice.
Do not lean against the walls or sprawl with your legs stretched out. Kneel or sit cross-legged.
No unnecessary talking during practice.
Never leave the dojo without permission.
Report all injuries to the instructor before leaving.
Help clean the dojo before practice. “Polishing the floor is in fact the art of polishing your own mind.” – Ohshima Sensei
Respect all dojo equipment such as kicking shields and focus mitts. They should always be neatly put away and should never be thrown around.
Pay your dojo dues. If you are unable to pay your dues on time, talk with the person in charge of dues collection.
Visitors should ask for permission to the instructor and sit quietly at the back of the dojo.

True karate is this: that in daily life one’s mind and body be trained and developed in a spirit of humility, and that in critical times, one be devoted utterly to the cause of justice. – Gichin Funakoshi

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