Etiquette is a code of conduct essential to the proper practice of the Japanese Martial Arts. Without it, their practice becomes meaningless. Self-discipline, mutual trust and respect for one’s opponent are essential to safe practice.

Please carefully observe the following procedure in any dojo :

1.    On entering the dojo, Rei ( Bow ).

2.    On greeting one’s Sensei, training partner or other Karateka, Rei and say Oss.

3.    Students shall make every effort to attend class on time.

4.    Any person that has been drinking alcohol shall not present themselves for training.

5.    Never walk on the training area with shoes on.

6.    Smoking and swearing in the Dojo are strictly forbidden.

7.    Students must keep themselves clean, nails cut short and Gi’s must be clean and pressed.

8.    Students who arrive late, when training has commenced, or leave the Dojo before training has finished, shall kneel at the edge of the       area and Rei.

9.    Instructors shall always be called Sensei in the Dojo.

10.    No unnecessary talking is permitted during training. Students shall do their utmost to carry out the training as laid down by the Sensei.

11.    No student shall leave the dojo without permission.

12.    When training with an opponent, both shall Rei simultaneously before and after training.

13.    When demonstrating for, or upon receiving instruction from, the Sensei, students shall acknowledge with standing Rei and Oss.

14.    Before entering any training or contest area for competition, always Rei at the perimeter before entering.

15.    Always remember the Dojo creed :-

HUMILITY, ENDEAVOUR, RESPECT, SINCERITY, PURITY, HONESTY, PATIENCE

"You must be deadly serious in training. When I say that, I do not mean that you should be reasonably diligent or moderately in earnest. I mean that your opponent must always be present in your mind, whether you sit or walk or raise your arms ."

{ Gichin Funakoshi - Founder of Shotokan 1868 - 1957 }

You may understand this at first glance, but as you progress, you will understand the afore-mentioned points better and often in a different way.