Dojo Etiquette

Etiquette and respect are not coincidental cultural artifacts tied to karate because of its Okinawan origin. Rather they are essential aspects of its teaching and practice. The expressions of respect serve to separate the dojo and teaching atmosphere from the harsh outside world, allowing the student to focus on learning, instead of his or her daily problems. They also foster a spirit of community and shared purpose. Additionally, etiquette serves as a damper on the negative emotions that can come into play when simulating combat. The karate-ka spars for all he/she is worth, but dutifully obeys the referee, and once the match is over and the competitors have bowed to one another, it is over, and any anger at the opponent should drain away.

Dummies Guide to the Bow

Rei - the bow. There are two basic types of bow used in this club: the standing rei (tachi-rei) and the sitting rei (zarei). The standing rei is used most often. Tachi-rei is executed with the heels together, the back straight, palms along the leg, facing in. The back bends about 30 degrees (at the waist), and the head drops another 15. In some dojos, not watching the person one is bowing to is considered disrespectful, while in others, watching them is considered a slight.

The formal bow is executed from the formal sitting position (kneeling actually), by placing both hands on the ground in front (pointing inwards), and bowing from the waist to the floor, until the forehead almost touches the floor. Some other Isshin ryu clubs bow on their knuckles instead of the palms.

When to use the informal bow:

1. When entering or leaving the dojo floor.
2. When addressing or acknowledging another member, especially senior students and the instructors.
3. Before and after working with a partner (e.g. ippon kumite, self-defense, etc.).
4. Before and after kata.
5. Before and after kumite. In kumite, wait for the referee's signal to bow. Then bow to the referee first, and then to each other.
6. Any time you wonder if you need to.

When to use the formal bow:

1. At the start and end of class.
2. During formal ceremonies, such as the awarding of belts.

Protocol for beginning and ending Class:

Beginning

1. Everyone kneels, and all the students are in line with the senior student. Sensei says "Shomen ni rei" and the entire class bows formally to the ancient masters of karate (in our case, Shimabuku).
2. Sensei turns around on his/her knees to face the class and the SEMPAI says "Sensei ni rei" (in the case of a single sensei) or "Yudansha ni rei" (if there are more than one). As everyone bows they say "O-negai shimasu " together. This translates as "We are grateful to workout together."

End of class

1. Repeat step #1
2. Sensei turns around on his/her knees and the SEMPAI says "Sensei ni rei." As they touch their foreheads to the ground, the students say "Domo arigato sensei". This translates as "Thank you very much teacher." The sensei responds with "Do itashi mashite. Oyasuminasai." which is "You are welcome, and good night."

Gi - the uniform

Meant to be a simple practical garment, it should be neat and clean, and adorned only with appropriate club and style crests. Bloodstains should be promptly removed. More seriously, rips should repaired to avoid snagging partners. Prior to your first promotion all patches must be sewn onto your gi. The Toshikai patch is worn on the right shoulder of the gi.

The sempai-kohai relationship

The sempai-kohai (seniors and juniors in Japanese, big and little brothers in the Chinese arts) relationship is carried over from the Asian origins of the eastern martial arts. There is a very eloquent article online that explains it well. Basically, the concept is that whoever joins a dojo, regardless of rank, owes an obligation to all who follow to pass on the collective knowledge and assist them in their learning. Reciprocally, newcomers, regardless of rank or experience, owe a measure of respect to their seniors at the club for passing on the knowledge. Instructors and senior students are addressed by title, e.g. Sensei, sempai, etc. While junior belts are not usually addressed by title, respect and courtesy is expected to flow both ways.

Rules of the Toshikai Dojo

• Work hard at training - it not just helps the individual to achieve more, but contributes to the energy and achievement of the rest of the class, and demonstrates respect for the instructor's efforts.
• Don't argue with the referee or instructor.
• When the referee calls the end of the match, stop attacking.
• In the ranks, karate-ka stand aligned with the highest-ranking student, and stand from lowest rank on the left, to highest on the right. The highest-ranking student is responsible to ensure this.
• Outside shoes are not worn on the dojo floor (karate shoes are permitted).
• Finger and toenails are kept clean, short and blunt to avoid cutting or infecting partners.
• Excessive force in sparring is rewarded with pushups, as is tardiness. If someone hits too hard, it is their responsibility to acknowledge it and do the pushups. Similarly, if a student arrives late for class, it is their responsibility to do the pushups before joining the ranks. In neither case should the karate-ka need to be told.
• No jewelry is worn during class.
• When bowing, the eyes are respectfully downcast, except when sparring, in which case, the opponent is watched.
• Pay dues on the first class of the new session.
• Let the Sensei know when you will miss classes, so he/she can plan.
• Arrive early enough before class to help set up the dojo and be changed before Sensei calls the class to order.
• Questions are encouraged.