Some Rules for safe, fun training



  1. Always show respect to the dojo (training area) and your seniors and peers with a bow (rei)

  2. Listen for instruction and always stop whatever you are doing IMMEDIATELY on the command "Yame" (stop)

  3. Keep yourself and your equipment clean and tidy

  4. Ensure cuts and other wounds are covered and finger / toenails are clean and trimmed

  5. No jewellery to be worn during training - this applies to ALL sharp or hard metal or plastic objects: piercings; hair slides; watches, belt buckles etc.

  6. Unless there is a good medical reason always train in barefeet in the dojo - walk to the tatami (mat) in shoes & take them off before stepping on the mat to avoid bringing outside debris into the training area

  7. Try to train regularly. At least twice a week is recommended for a fair level of progress. Let the club know if you are unable to attend a session

  8. Show due respect for seniors. Do not interrupt a class by requesting e.g. a toilet break."Go" before you start. Brief drink breaks may be taken at the coach's invitation only

  9. Other than water at designated times, no food, drink or chewing gum in the dojo please

  10. Ensure your AMA licence is kept up to date - renew in plenty of time

  11. Ensure the appropriate use of safety equipment during sparring

  12. Do not use karate outside the dojo except in lawful defence of life or property

These rules are not exhaustive. Common sense and sociable behaviour should prevail at all times. Although Karate is a fighting system, and at advanced levels entails some degree of risk, injury and accident can be avoided by observation of the above guidelines.