The Dojo Code
The fundamental principles of our training and conduct.
1. The Dojo Kun: The 5 Principles
In the Dojo, each principle begins with "Hitotsu!" (meaning "First!"). This signifies that no one principle is more important than the others—they are all of equal priority.
(Strive for perfection of personality)
Focus on your personal growth, not just in karate but in all aspects of your life.
(Defend the path of truth)
Act with honesty and integrity in all your dealings.
(Cultivate a spirit of effort)
Embrace hard work and perseverance, knowing that true progress comes from consistent effort.
(Show respect and courtesy)
Show respect for everyone you train with—your instructors, peers, and yourself.
(Refrain from impetuous behaviour)
Practice self-control and use your power and training responsibly, only when necessary for self-defence.
2. Bowing (Rei)
Bowing is a traditional sign of mutual respect and gratitude—it is a secular cultural practice, not a religious gesture. It honours the training space, the instructors, and your fellow students.
- Zarei: This is the traditional kneeling bow performed at the start and end of each class to signify the formal beginning and closing of training.
- Injuries & Accessibility: We value inclusion. If a physical injury or condition makes kneeling difficult or painful, a respectful standing bow is a perfectly acceptable alternative.
- Partner Work: Mutual respect is vital. Students must always bow to their partner before starting an exercise and upon finishing to show appreciation for the shared training.
3. Opening Ceremony
Every session begins with a traditional opening ceremony to help students transition into a focused state of mind.
(Formal Sitting)
(Meditation)
(Stop Meditation)
(Bow to the Front)
(Bow to the Teacher)
(Stand Up)
4. Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony is used to reflect on the session and reinforce the core principles of the Dojo.
(Formal Sitting)
(Meditation)
(Stop Meditation)
(The Principles)
(Bow to the Front)
(Bow to the Teacher)
(Stand Up)
5. Respectful Conduct
- Active Listening: Focus your full attention on the instructor. Maintain a positive attitude and a calm mind throughout the session.
- Dojo Focus: Casual conversation should be avoided during training. Use the time before class starts for quiet stretching and mental preparation.
- Lining Up: Students should line up in grade order, with higher grades positioned to the left of the instructor.
- Arrival: Aim to arrive 5 minutes before the scheduled start time. If you arrive late, wait at the edge of the training area for the instructor’s acknowledgment before joining the class.
- Mobile Devices: To maintain the focus of the Dojo, all mobile phones must be turned off or silenced.
6. Training with a Partner
- Mutual Improvement: Treat your partner as a teammate, not an opponent. The primary goal is to help each other grow and perfect your technique together.
- Maintain Control: Karate is a disciplined art. Always focus on precision and control rather than power. You must never intentionally cause injury or lose your temper during training.
- Safety First: If a partner indicates they are in discomfort or asks to stop, you must disengage immediately. Respecting your partner's limits is a core requirement of our Dojo.
7. Hygiene & Safety
- Personal Grooming: Fingernails and toenails must be kept short to prevent accidental injury to training partners.
- Hair & Jewellery: Long hair must be tied back. No jewellery or watches are permitted during training. If a ring cannot be removed, it must be securely covered with tape.
- Uniform (Karate-Gi): Students must wear a clean Karate-Gi in good repair.
8. Child Safety & Supervision
The safety of our younger members is our highest priority. To ensure appropriate supervision and a secure environment, we operate strict protocols regarding parental attendance and "drop and go" age limits.
For full details on age-specific requirements, toilet breaks, and collection procedures, please refer to our Safeguarding Policy.