THE ETIQUETTES & TRADITIONS OF
ZENITH MARTIAL ARTS AUSTRALIA

Etiquettes & Traditions Martial arts training would not be complete without the practice of etiquette. This helps set the rules and “policy” on how to act in a Martial Arts dojo. It helps to establish the right order and way of doing things, and particularly in children, develops discipline and respect.

• The dojo (training hall) is for the purpose of martial arts training, and is to be respected. You are to bow as you come through the door as a symbolic gesture of humility and with a willingness to train hard and follow the instructor without argument, in fact, to respect the instructor. You bow at the door when you leave the dojo.
  
  
• Should you need to leave during the class, you move to the side of the group, (walking behind the other students) get the instructors attention and bow, then leave. When returning whilst the class is in session, or if you’ve arrived late, stand to the side, get the instructors attention, bow, then return from the rear to the class.
  
  
• During the free time break you should, whilst in the dojo, not sit on chairs. If you need to sit, sit on the floor.
  
  
• A lower grade student should not ask a higher grade to spar (Kumite).
  
  
• There should be no contact during sparring and the lower grade student should be especially careful not to make contact on the higher grade. Contact due to carelessness is a serious offence.
  
  
• A student should not “push” for higher grading. Whilst he/she may ask if they are ready for a higher grading he/she must accept the instructors decision.
  
  
• You bow before sparring, approximately 3 metres apart. You should maintain a good attitude towards your partner. On one hand he/she is your opponent and you are to spar as seriously or as lightly as directed by your instructor. At the same time, he/she is your colleague and you should be careful not to make contact due to neglect or carelessness.
  
  
• Food should not be eaten in the dojo.
  
  
• There should be no loud talking or unnecessary noise.
  
  
• As much as possible you should be early enough at the dojo to register and spend some time stretching and loosening up, if possible 15 minutes or earlier, before the class starts.
  
  
• Students who have uniforms (Gi) should wear them. No “T shirts” under jackets (females excepted).
  
  
• No jewellery to be worn eg: watches, neck chains, earrings or rings, wedding rings to be taken off if possible or covered with plaster tape if not removed.
  
• Finger and toenails are to be kept clean and well manicured in the dojo.
  
  
• Possibly the most important aspect, more than etiquette, is the respect and loyalty to be shown to the instructor and the willingness to co-operate and follow the flow of the instructors wishes. You may be asked to assist eg: teaching a class or part of a class occasionally. Consider this an honour and a way for you to develop more confidence, expand your skills, personality and character.
  
  
• Instructors are to be addressed Sensei (teacher) or Sempai (assistant teacher)