Here are some general rules of etiquette when you are in the dojo. Following these guidelines, you will enhance your karate training, and avoid accidentally insulting anyone.

1. Do Not Be Late
   • Appearing late to a workout shows disrespect to the instructor and to the other members of the class.
   • If unforseen circumstances cause you to be late, you should change into your uniform (gi) and warm up outside of the area the class is taking place in. Once you are warmed up, you should kneel at the entrance to the class room and wait until the instructor acknowledges you. When the instructor acknowledges you, bow to the floor in a kneeling position, then rise and quickly join the class in whatever exercise they are doing.
2. Bowing
   • You should always bow from the waist when entering and leaving the practice floor. This shows respect to the instructor, the class, and the work done in the room. When bowing, you should always face into the room.
   • When initially approaching the instructor, you should bow in greeting.
   • When in doubt about when you should bow, take your cues from the senior students in the class.
3. Language and Actions
   • AT ALL TIMES, a student should refrain from vulgar language or behavior in the dojo. This behavior shows disrespect to everyone in the room.
4. Uniforms
   • Uniforms should be kept clean and in good condition. Tears and rips, if they occur, should be mended before the next class. If the uniform is beyond repair, a replacement should be obtained.
   • Uniforms should be washed regularly. Sweating in class is a good thing. But a uniform that smells of five days of sweat is not a good thing.
   • Your Obi - belt - should never be washed once you have worn in on the floor.
5. Have Fun, But Work Hard
   • Work hard at your classes, but enjoy them too.
   • Listen to the instructor at all times. A general rule of thumb is that if he corrects someone next to you, check yourself to make sure you aren't making the same mistake.
   • Remember that everyone is there for basically the same reason - to learn and improve in the Martial Arts.
6. Control
   • Exercise control when sparring at all times. It is easy to get into the spirit of the kumite practice, but failing to use control can cause injury to your partner and to yourself. Remember that your sparring partner in class is your classmate and friend, and you should avoid any action that could cause harm.
7. Equipment
   • Having the proper equipment is important not only to your training but to your safety as well. Keep in your gi bag hand and foot pads, a mouthpiece fitted to your mouth, and a groin protector if appropriate.
     • A good suggestion would be to buy the items that you would need for a tournament and practice with those in order to get accustomed to them.
     • Check with the school you are training at to determine if you will need any additional equipment.