Bow upon entering or leaving the mat or instructional area (dance studio).
Shoes must be lined up neatly side by side inside the door along the wall, not haphazardly dropped
anywhere.
Karate GI's are to be kept clean, wash after each workout.
Attention should be paid to, and an effort made to maintain good personal hygiene, especially make sure
to wash feet before coming to class.
Before and after class the instructional area is for practicing techniques, not socializing or horsing around.
The class will begin when the Instructor claps his hands and asks the class to line up.
You will line up with the higher-ranking class members to your right. To your immediate right and left will be
persons of equal rank to yours. The lower ranking members will be to your extreme left.
After the instructor assumes a kneeIing position the rest of the class will do likewise, one at a time,
beginning with the highest-ranking persons.
When kneeling, the left leg goes down first then the right. When rising, the right leg comes up first.
The instructor or a ranking member of the class will then call for a short period of meditation by saying
"Seiza". You will close your eyes with your back straight and your hands folded In front of you. Try to rid
your mind of any cares so that you may concentrate on what lies before you.
Next, the same person will say "Sensei Ni Rei", which means bow to the instructor. Place your left hand on
the floor in front of you, then the right hand and bow until your forehead touches the floor. Reverse the
process as you come up.
After, the instructor rises to his feet the rest of the class will follow as per #8 and #9. After standing, bow
again (feet together, hands at your sides) and say "Onegaishimasu" (o-knee-guy-she-ma-sue), which
means, "please help” or "teach me".
At the end of the class you will say "Arigato Gosaimashita" (a-ree-ga-toe go-zi-ma-she-ta), which is a
formal thank you.
During class anyone entering the instructional area late or wishing to leave the instructional area should
ask permission of the Instructor.
Anytime that the clothes or uniform becomes disarranged, the student should face away from class while
arranging them again.
Always begin and end practice with a partner by bowing to him or her, and Saying "onegaishimasu".
Wear no jewelry - rings, watches, necklaces, earrings, etc.
Keep fingernails and toenails trimmed and clean.
There will be no talking during class unless you are asked to.
When seated In the instructional area keep your feet in. This means sitting Indian style for beginners,
Seiza for advanced students.
Only do what you are told - When you are told to do it. Make sure to Listen and Keep your eyes opens.
The instructor if of Dan ranking (black belt) is addressed as Sensei.
Do not display anger in any form.
Always respond positively to a question, command or your name by saying "Hai" which means yes.
Before and after class beginners should ask advanced students for help.
Late to class: Sign In and wait for instructor’s permission to enter.
Leave early: Tell the instructor before the start of class and before leaving.
When the instructor is out of the instructional area, treat the highest-ranking student with the same respect
you would show the instructor.
