Welcome to Mansfield Karate Club
Here at Mansfield karate club you can learn karate in a safe, controlled environment with expert teaching from 7th dan black belt Sensei David Allsop. From absolute beginners to expert practitioners everyone is welcome! While learning with us there are just a few things to keep in mind.
Dojo Etiquette
- Remove all jewellery before training.
- Gi’s must be kept clean and in good condition.
- Remove shoes before walking onto the dojo training floor.
- Finger and toe nails must be kept clean and short.
- Hands and feet must be clean.
- Do not talk in class. Concentrate on what Sensei is saying.
- The instructor is always referred to as ‘Sensei’ whilst in the dojo. You should never disregard a direction from the instructor.
- Never intentionally try to hurt anyone in training. The emphasis is always on control.
Bowing
A bow, rei (pronounced – ray), in UKKW dojos is a demonstration of respect, nothing more.
When entering or leaving the dojo, stand at the doorway, heels together hands by your side in musubi dachi (informal attention stance) and bow, saying “Oss”. This shows respect for the dojo, Sensei and everyone training at the dojo. Students must bow in this same manner to their partner at the beginning and at the end of training with that person. This too is a sign of courtesy and respect, it shows good manners.
All bows begin by bringing the right foot into the left foot to form musubi dachi. When with a training partner or in general a class the student then returns to yoi position (Hachiji Dachi – ready position) by moving the right foot out and waits for instruction from Sensei. Never perform a half-hearted bow
If you are late to class you must kneel in seiza (formal sitting position) inside the doorway at the edge of the training area and when sensei sees you, bow while still in seiza. You will then be invited into the class. This applies to any dojo you may train at.
The class will start with a formal bow in with all students lined up in order of grade with the highest graded students on the right hand side of the dojo facing the front (shomen) of the dojo.
1. On the command Sensei ni rei, the class bows to the instructor and he returns the courtesy by bowing to the class. This is a sign of respect and reinforces the fact that the instructor in charge of the class.
2. On the command otagani rei bow to every one else.
At the end of the class again all students line up in order of grade with the highest graded students on the right hand side of the dojo facing the front (shomen) of the dojo.
1. On the command Sensei ni rei, the class bows to the instructor and he returns the courtesy by bowing to the class. This again is a sign of respect and thanks the instructor teaching the class.
2. The instructor will then say Otagai ni rei, the class and instructor bow at the same time. This bow is to thank our partners and everyone who trained at the class for being there and therefore helping with each individuals learning.
The class then walks off the dojo floor in a dignified manner.
The do’s and dont’s
While Sensei is speaking, do not:
- Talk or fool around.
- Stand with your arms folded.
- Stand with your hands on your hips or behind your back.
- Have your hands together in front of your lap.
These actions are seen as discourteous and disrespectful and show bad manners.
When Sensei is speaking, correct etiquette is to stand in yoi (ready position) or with your feet together and hands by your side in heisoku-dachi or in musubi dachi.