DOJO INFORMATION

The principal instructors for the NDSU Karate Club are Paul Dimke and Tim Eissinger.  In the dojo, the chief instructor is always referred to as "sensei," as is any person who is teaching class who posses a higher rank. Rank examinations are conducted in accordance with standards established by the JKA. Tests are held at the end of each semester and a student may test not more than once every three months.

Uniforms must be made of plain, white cotton or cotton-polyester. No decoration other than a belt of the appropriate rank is allowed. Any student arriving late for class should sufficiently warm-up before joining the class. In the rear of the dojo floor, the student should silently go through the formal bow and then wait for the instructor to call him/her into class.

When possible, the sensei should be informed in advance of plans to leave class early. In the event of an emergency this is not necessary. An informal bow should be performed when leaving the floor.  

Bowing is a form of respect the student shows to other members, the dojo, the instructor, and the founder of karate. Bowing is also performed at the beginning and at the end of a kata or kumite performance. The bow is done either from a formal (kneeling) or informal (standing) position depending upon the circumstances.

The instructions of teachers and all higher ranking students should be followed. In discussing karate, it is considered impolite to contradict the instruction of a teacher or higher ranking student. It is also improper for a lower ranking student to criticize or correct the technique of a higher ranking student. Any problems of this nature should be discussed with the chief instructor.

Your conduct outside the dojo reflects on you, the dojo, fellow students, the sensei, and the reputation of the NDSU Karate Club. Think before you act!

 

DOJO ETIQUETTE

1. Remove shoes upon entering the dojo. Shoes are NEVER worn on the training floor.

2. Keep the dojo clean. Clothing should be neatly placed along the wall of the dojo. Make sure that any trash is properly disposed. 

3. No smoking in the dojo at any time. 

4. Bow upon entering or leaving the dojo floor. This is to show respect for the facilities used in the practice of karate.

5. Never refer to an instructor by name while in the dojo. Always use the term "sensei."

6. There should be no talking between students while class is in session. Questions may be asked at an appropriate time.

7. At NO time will horseplay be tolerated. Karate is a discipline of both mind and body, and as such demands full concentration and serious effort on the part of the student. Horseplay can only lead to loss of knowledge and possible injury to oneself or one's partner.

8. Good hygiene should be followed. Uniforms are to be kept clean and in good repair. Finger- and toenails should be kept short to prevent injury while training and hands and feet should be clean.

9. Jewelry should not be worn while training. Watches, rings, earrings, necklaces, etc. often get in the way and can cause otherwise avoidable injuries.

10. As a safety precaution, chewing gum is not allowed in class.
These rules are a matter of safety and common courtesy. Any questions regarding dojo etiquette should be directed to the sensei.