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KARATE DOJO ETIQUETTE - KARATE FOR DISCIPLINE

If you're starting your journey in a karate dojo, understanding etiquette is essential. At Shirley SKC, we believe karate is not just about technique—it is about karate for discipline, respect, and personal growth from the very first lesson. Training in a traditional karate dojo helps students develop structure, focus, and the mindset needed for long-term progress.

In every karate dojo, students are expected to follow clear rules of behaviour. From bowing when entering the dojo to showing respect to instructors and fellow students, these traditions create a safe, focused, and supportive training environment. This structure is a key part of karate for discipline, helping students stay consistent and committed.

Practising etiquette is a vital part of karate for discipline. It helps students of all ages improve focus, develop respect, and build strong habits that carry beyond training. Learning how to behave in a karate dojo sets the foundation for progress, confidence, and success, both inside and outside of training.

At Shirley SKC, our experienced instructors guide students through both the physical and mental aspects of karate. Every session in our karate dojo reinforces karate for discipline, ensuring students grow in confidence, control, and respect while developing their skills.

Start your journey today and experience how training in a traditional karate dojo can build karate for discipline, confidence, and lifelong skills.

Discipline. Respect. Practice
 

Preparing for grading, 5 Step
Sensei Anya practicing Gankaku Kata

Dojo Etiquette

DO

 

  • Bow on entering and leaving the Dojo.

  • Address any teaching instructor as “Sensei”, any senior grade as “Sempai”

  • Say “OSS” upon receiving any advice or command from the instructor

  • Say “OSS” when bowing at the start or finish of the class

  • Say “OSS” when bowing to your partner in kumite

  • Train at your designated lesson and at least TWICE a week

  • Keep fingers and toe nails clean and short

  • Keep your “Gi” clean, ironed and in good condition

  • Ask your instructor or higher grades for advice

  • Show respect to each others

  • Tell your instructor before the lesson if you have a injury

  • Tell your instructor before the class if you must leave early

  • Learn the Dojo Code/Dojo Kun

DON’T

 

  • Leave the class without your instructor’s permission

  • Arrive late for training (if you do, warm up outside then kneel at the front of the Dojo, wait to be asked to enter then bow and join the class)

  • Wear any jewellery in the Dojo (rings which won’t come off must be covered with tape)

  • Wear make up or nail varnish inside the Dojo

  • Use offensive language or behaviour in the Dojo

  • Use your Karate skills outside of the Dojo (except for self defence or the defence of other within the law)

  • Wear your Belt outside on the street

    • More practicing of basics

    Ready to Get Started?

    Join our beginner karate Croydon program at Shirley SKC and take the first step toward improved fitness, focus, and confidence. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to return to martial arts after a break, our classes are welcoming, structured, and tailored for all ages.

    👊 Book your FREE trial class today and experience the difference at Shirley SKC.

    📍 Conveniently located in Croydon
    📆 Flexible class times for kids and adults
    🎓 Qualified, friendly instructors

    Contact us now to reserve your spot or learn more about our beginner karate Croydon classes!

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