Southern Utah Wado Kai Karate Dojo Etiquette

Karate Etiquette

At Southern Utah Wado-Kai Karate, etiquette is a vital part of training. These guidelines ensure respect, discipline, and humility—core values of traditional Japanese karate.

1. Entering and Leaving the Dojo

  • Bow at the entrance to show respect to the dojo (rei) and announce your arrival with “Osu!”

  • Seek out Sensei and greet respectfully in the same manner.

  • Remove your shoes before stepping onto the mat.

  • Greet fellow students with a bow and “Osu!” before entering the mat.

  • If late, kneel at the edge of the mat and wait quietly for the instructor’s permission to join.

  • Students may arrive early to stretch, practice, or use the heavy bags. This time is for mental and physical preparation—not socializing.

2. Bowing and Respect

  • Always bow to the instructor (Sensei), senior students (Senpai), and fellow students.

  • Use proper titles when addressing instructors and higher ranks.

  • Bow before and after practicing with a partner.

3. Dojo Conduct

  • Maintain silence and focus during class.

  • Speak only when necessary, and always listen attentively to the instructor.

  • Do not wear jewelry, watches, or accessories during training.

  • Long hair must be tied back.

  • Keep fingernails trimmed, and ensure your gi (uniform) is clean and neat.

4. Training Behavior

  • Follow commands promptly and with strong spirit.

  • Do not question or debate the instructor during class.

  • Remain humble and train sincerely—never display arrogance.

  • When adjusting your uniform or belt, turn away from the instructor.

5. Sitting and Standing Etiquette

  • Sit in seiza (traditional kneeling posture) when waiting or listening during class.

  • Do not lean against walls or lie down in the dojo.

  • Stand respectfully, with hands at your sides or in front—not on hips or with arms crossed.

6. Beginning and Ending Class

  • Line up according to rank, from highest to lowest.

  • Observe the traditional bowing sequence:

    • Bow to the front: Shomen ni rei

    • Bow to the instructor: Sensei ni rei

    • Bow to each other: Otagai ni rei

  • Recite the dojo kun (dojo principles), if required.

7. Sparring (Kumite) Etiquette

  • Bow to your partner before and after each sparring session.

  • Practice control—do not strike with excessive force.

  • Always show respect to your partner, regardless of experience level.

8. General Dojo Manners

  • Arrive on time, ideally 15–20 minutes early, and be fully prepared.

  • Help keep the dojo clean and organized.

  • Show appreciation at the end of every class.

9. Absences

  • If you will miss a class due to illness or scheduling conflicts, please notify Sensei in advance by text or message.

10. Aggressive Behavior

    • The safety of our students comes first. If a student repeatedly demonstrates unsafe or aggressive behavior and is unable or unwilling to follow our expectations, Southern Utah Wado Kai Karate reserves the right to expel that student from the dojo.