Dojo Etiquette

The Jewel Karate Club is committed to maintaining a respectful and safe environment for all members.
Members are expected to adhere to the following rules and guidelines to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience.

Etiquette within our Dojo

The Twenty Precepts of Karate




Etiquette within our Dojo

Dojo etiquette is a set of respectful practices that create a disciplined and positive training environment. Rooted in respect and humility,
these guidelines honor the dojo, instructors, and fellow students. Following dojo etiquette reinforces martial arts values, fostering a
shared commitment to respect, safety, and growth.

Bow Upon Entering and Leaving: Always bow when entering or leaving the dojo as a sign of respect for the training space and the spirit of martial arts.
Show Respect to Instructors and Peers: Address instructors as "Sensei" and senior students respectfully. Bow to instructors and higher-ranked students when beginning or ending an interaction.
Arrive on Time and Prepare Quietly: Arrive early to ensure you're prepared and ready to begin when class starts. If late, wait at the dojo entrance for the Sensei’s acknowledgment to join.
Practice Silence and Focus: Refrain from unnecessary talking or distractions during training. Observe others and focus on the instructor's guidance.
No Shoes on the Training Floor:                               Shoes are not permitted on the dojo floor
in order to keep it clean and show respect for the training area.
Acknowledge Mistakes with Gratitude: If corrected, bow or say "thank you." Embrace feedback as a chance for growth and improvement.
Be Humble and Open Minded: Leave ego outside the dojo.
Be receptive to learning and remember that martial arts is a journey of self-improvement.
Follow Instructions Exactly: Pay close attention to Sensei’s instructions, following them precisely.
Avoid attempting techniques that haven’t been demonstrated or approved by the instructor.
Bow and Thank Your Partner:                         After practicing with a partner, bow and thank them for training with you.
This reinforces mutual respect and gratitude within the dojo community.

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The Twenty Precepts of Karate

Originally outlined by Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate, the twenty precepts serve as guiding principles for practitioners. These teachings emphasize not only the physical aspects of karate but also a philosophy of life centered on humility, respect, and perseverance.


These precepts inspire students to view karate as more than just a physical discipline. They encourage personal growth, self-awareness, and respect for others. Widely regarded as foundational in many karate schools, these principles often serve as a guide for teaching life values alongside martial techniques.

1        Karate begins and ends with courtesy.
2        There is no first strike in karate.
3        Karate is an aid to justice.
4        Know yourself before you attempt to know others.
5        Spirit first, technique second.
6        Always be ready to release your mind.
7        Misfortune comes out of laziness.
8        Do not think that karate training is only in the dojo.
9        Karate is a lifelong pursuit.
10        Apply the way of karate to all things. Therein lies its beauty.
11        Karate is like boiling water; without heat, it returns to its tepid state.
12        Do not think of winning; think, rather, of not losing.
13        Make adjustments according to your opponent.
14        The outcome of a battle depends on how one handles emptiness and fullness (weakness and strength).
15        Think of the opponent’s hands and feet as swords.
16        When you step beyond your own gate, you face a million enemies.
17        Formal stances are for beginners; later, one stands naturally.
18        Perform kata exactly; actual combat is another matter.
19        Do not forget the employment or withdrawal of power, the extension or contraction of the body, and the swift or leisurely application of technique.
20        Be constantly mindful, diligent, and resourceful in your pursuit of the Way.

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These precepts encourage karateka to embrace karate not just as a physical practice but as a path toward self-awareness, discipline, and respect for others. They are fundamental in many karate schools and are often used to teach life principles alongside martial techniques.

Elevate Your Spirit,   Unleash Your Strength
Our Club,   Your Martial Journey.

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