Dojo Etiquette

Traditionally the Dojo is considered sacred ground with its own special etiquette. Etiquette must be shown at every Class, Grading and Seminar. We have etiquette to maintain certain traditions that have been passed down through our lineage and to show respect to our fellow Karateka.

Bow upon entering and leaving the "dojo" - ’training hall’. This shows respect for the dojo, your fellow karateka and the art in which you are studying.

Your Instructor must always be addressed as "Sensei". Any assistants helping in the running of the class must be addressed as "Sempai". If you are training in class and the "Kaishoko", "Cheif Instructor" enters, everyone must turn and bow. It is a sign of respect to call the "Cheif Instructor", "Kaishoko". However if you are training with him you must address him as "Sensei Ivan".

An important part of etiquette is to show loyalty and respect to your Sensei and Sempai at all times.

Jewellery must not be worn inside the Dojo. If you do not want to, or cannot remove your wedding band or earrings, then a plaster must be worn over the top.

Hands and feet must be clean when entering the dojo and nails are to be kept short.

No food to be consumed in the Dojo.

Arrive 15 minutes before the start of Class, Grading or Seminar to prepare yourself, for example to speak to your Sensei or Sempai, warm up or use the bathroom.

Whilst wearing your Gi in Class, at a Grading or taking part in a Seminar, you are not permitted to sit on any furniture. If you are wearing your Gi and you would like to sit, you may sit on the floor crossed legged in the traditional style of the Karateka as a gesture of humility.

Avoid making any unnecessary noises like loud talking, shouting or screaming. Save your energy for your responses - "Hai’s", and shouts of spirit - "Kiai’s".

If you need to leave a Class, Grading or Seminar, raise your hand and wait for the Sensei or Sempai to bow you out. If you are standing in line, walk behind the other Karateka, to leave. When you are ready to re-join, wait at the side of the class and Sensei or Sempai who will bow you back in. Remember to walk behind the other Karateka if they are in line. 

Line up in grade order with the highest grade to the right hand side. If you are in separate lines make sure you stand directly in front of and or behind of your fellow Karateka.

If you have any queries, or there is anything you want to address, you should speak to your Sensei or Sempai before or after the class in a humble manner. 

You should not ask to be graded or push for a higher grade, however, you may ask your Sensei and Sempai what it is that you need to work on in order to develop and advance your skills to a higher grade. Your Sensei or Sempai will give you feedback.

As a mark of respect a junior grade should not ask a senior grade to take part in Kumite.

Black Panther is a non-contact club. However contact can only be made with consent amongst senior grades. The most important aspects of Kumite are control and technique.

Your Sensei and Sempai will bow you into the class if you are late. Your Sensei and Sempai must be aware of any early departures so that you can be signed out of the class.

It is preferred that all students use the bathroom before start of class to maximise training time.

Ensure your Gi is clean and pressed. Females should also wear a crew neck plain black t-shirt. This is optional for males.