The Complete Guide to GKR Karate

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Etiquette

Karate begins and ends with Rei - Master Gichin Funakoshi

General

The dojo (training hall) is, for the purpose of karate training, considered “sacred ground”. You are to bow as you come through the door as a symbolic gesture or humility and with an attitude of willingness to train hard and follow the instructor. You bow at the door when you leave the dojo. Instructors and Black-belts are to be addressed as Sensei (teacher). You should bow when approaching a senior instructor.

Should you need to leave during the class, you move to the side of the group, get the instructor’s attention, bow and then leave. When returning whilst the class is in session, or if you’ve arrived late, stand to the side, get the instructor’s attention, bow, then return from the rear of the class.

During the break you should, whilst in the dojo, not sit on chairs. If you need to sit, sit on the floor. There should be no unauthorized contact during the class. Contact due to carelessness is a serious offence. No jewellery is to be worn and finger/toe nails need to be kept well manicured and clean in the dojo.

A student must not “push” for a higher grading. Whilst he/she may ask if they are ready, he/she must accept the instructor’s decision. Senior gradings are not about “number of classes”. Correct attitude and appropriate ability dictate a student’s readiness to grade.

Instructor Code of Conduct

This is a public document that can be viewed at www.gkrkarate.com/training/codeofconduct.asp