Class Protocol & Etiquette

While we have a very relaxed atmosphere as far as protocol is concerned.   We don't allow rough-housing, disrespect or unruly behavior from anyone in our dojo.  We do however encourage everyone to enjoy and avail themselves of all the training that is offered.

DRESS CODE

  1. Children are requested to train in either bare or stocking feet.   Since this helps to develop control over the young persons body, and also allows for the instructors to determine whether the student is performing certain exercises properly, we recommend this method.

  2. We offer the first uniform to all beginning students for $15.

  3. Tasteful patches and adjustments to the uniforms (for better fit) are encouraged.

  4. Adults may wear T-Shirt and and appropriate training shoes in order to promote comfortable and unhindered learning.

  5. If you wish to utilize the facility to train independently of an in session class, please allow those classes to take priority over training floor space.  

BOWING

Bowing at the waist is a traditional aspect of most Asian cultures.   Hand shaking is a traditional aspect of most European cultures.  We prefer to bow the same way in which you would shake hands--with or to another person.  Bowing to inanimate objects such as flags, pictures or belts is discouraged.  We prefer that you bow in and out of class sessions to an instructor or fellow class mate.  Just as it would look ridiculous for you to shake hands in midair, we feel it is just as ridiculous to bow in midair. 

Out of respect for our students who transfer from other styles, where frequent bowing is a requirement, we suggest that you consider these points:

  1. The showing of respect upon entering the Dojo creates traffic jams in our doorways and limits access to our disabled customers.

  2. The Dojo was just a building before we started our school, and will be just a building after we have left.  The fact that we are the current occupants doesn't make it hallowed ground.  Our students train with us for the learning that takes place from the instructors, not the building.

  3. Bowing to flags, belts or pictures may give you the feeling of showing respect, however we feel that this false display of respect is used instead of true respect for our fellow human beings.  Many karate students will show respect to a picture of a karate master one minute, and try to outrace an elderly person while driving the next.  We want our students to learn to respect people not pictures.

If you have a disagreement with our policy of not-bowing-all-the-time please remember that it is the consensus of all of our instructors that created this policy in the first place.

GENERAL RULES

  1. There is no talking in class unless you have been recognized by an instructor by raising your hand or using the phrase "Excuse me Sensei"   (Sensei is the Japanese term for teacher).

  2. There is no playing around allowed in class.

  3. You should respond with "Yes Sir" or "No Sir" when an instructor asks you a direct question.  This is the ultimate form of respect for our professional instructors who are willing to show that respect in return.

  4. Bow in and out of class before entering or leaving an in session class.   If you need to use the restroom request a leave of absence from your instructor and bow before exiting and returning to the class.

  5. Do not allow your belts to drag on the floor.  If you are not wearing your belt it belongs in your workout bag and not laying around the Dojo.

  6. No food or gum chewing is allowed in class.

  7. No profanity is allowed.

  8. There is No Smoking allowed in the Dojo.

SEVEN RULES OF ETIQUETTE FOR CHILDREN

  1. When greeting parents, teachers or friends look at them and say:   "Hi Mom!," or "Hi Mr. Jones."

  2. Children should always be respectful of their parents, teachers and fellow class mates.

  3. Children should be kind to their brothers and sisters.

  4. Children should keep their rooms and play areas neat and clean.

  5. Children should observe good personal hygiene.

  6. Children should not interrupt adult conversations.

  7. Homework should be completed before play time, video games or karate practice.

THE KENPO CREED

The Kenpo Creed is recited during all tests beginning at Orange Belt.   Please familiarize yourself with it so that if you are called upon in class to recite it you will be prepared.

"I come to you with only, Karate, empty hands.  I have no weapons, but should I be forced to defend myself, my principles, or my honor, should it be a matter of life or death, of right or wrong,  then here are my weapons, Karate, my empty hands."

--Ed Parker

THE STUDENT PLEDGE

"I solemnly pledge that I will use the art or Kenpo solely for purposes of defense, never for purposes of aggression.  I will treat with respect both my teachers and my fellow students.  I will strive to learn an attitude of respect for the teachings of Kenpo and an understanding of the responsibility that a knowledge of Kenpo entails.  I will never use Kenpo for harmful or destructive ends.   I make these promises solemnly and on my honor."