A karate-ka should always maintain the correct etiquette when entering and training in the dojo, the place where you learn karate.
In traditional karate the first thing to learn is the bow. When we bow, we do so to show respect. We do this by putting our heels together, our toes apart, hands at our sides and we lean over and bow. In traditional Japanese culture, the bow is used as a form of greeting. When an older Japanese person meets a younger one, the younger person will bow lower than the older one to show respect. The same is applied in karate. When a black belt bows to a white belt, the white belt should bow lower. The black belt should also bow to show respect to the student and set a good example.
When we enter the dojo, at the door or preferably next to the door, we bow to the dojo. This helps prepare the mind to learn and to also disconnect from the worries and stresses of our lives outside of karate. The same applies when one exits. A karate-ka should turn around and bow to the dojo before leaving to continue on their way.
Footwear
Shoes and socks must be removed before entering a dojo. Karate is usually carried out in bare feet, the exception being when foot guards are worn during kumite or free fighting.
Keeping the space you train in clean.
The dojo must also be kept clean by all students. Did you know that Japanese schools do not generally have cleaners? It is the students’ responsibility and regarded as part of their education to learn how to keep the space they learn in clean. The same applies to the dojo. Any litter, mess or trash that is dropped in the dojo must immediately be cleaned up. It is disrespectful to have poor dojo hygiene.
No chatting whilst in line
When we all line up in front of the instructor it is bad etiquette to talk, especially if the sensei is talking. During training one must keep focused on their own karate and not the person next to them. In some dojos (not all) if the student has something to say or has a question he or she can raise their hand. The sensei can then choose if he or she can talk.
It should be obvious that you should not be running around the dojo, climbing on the apparatus, making a noise unless instructed to do so by your sensei.
Punctuality
It is bad etiquette to arrive late. If a student arrives late and a class is in progress, they must wait by the door until the sensei indicates that they can join the class.
Self Discipline
Discipline comes in different forms. The martial art of karate itself is a discipline. A common form of dojo discipline is to have a student do press-ups or sit ups for example not paying attention in class. In the Washinkai España School we always try to give positive encouragement, even if a student is not trying their best. The idea is to get them to buy into the concept of self discipline.
Self discipline means you come to class all the time, as much as you can. If one day you are sat at home, not wanting to come to class when you have nothing better to do, if you get up and come to class you have achieved self discipline that day. In class the same applies in your focus and your technique. You should always be trying to do your best, show your best stance, show your best technique.
The sensei’s job is not to dish out discipline but to help the student find their own discipline.
