Prescott Valley House of Karate

Dojo Protocol & Etiquette

While we have a fairly 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 bare 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 $20-$30 depending on size.

3. Tasteful patches and adjustments to the uniforms (for better fit) are encouraged. (System Patch goes on left breast over heart, dojo patch on right breast, other system patches and associations on sleeves.
   

4. Adults may wear  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.
   

6. MMA or Kickboxing students are not required to wear a Gi. But all students are required to purchase and wear a protective cup (males), and mouth guard when sparring. (both are offered in the Pro Shop or can be bought elsewhere)

 BOWING POLICY

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 at the door shows respect to your dojo and the instructors that teach there.

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 or Sempai "   (Sensei is the Japanese term for teacher, Sempai is an assistant instructor). For students of the Chinese systems such as Kung Fu your instructor is referred to as Sifu, which is Chinese for teacher.
   

2. There is no playing around allowed in class.

3. You should respond with "Yes Sensei/Sempai" or "No Sensei/Sempai" 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 or ring 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.   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.

9. Put all Dojo gear back where it belongs and the way it belongs.
   

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 and STUDENT PLEDGE

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 D0J0 KUN

"The ultimate aim of Karate lies not in victory or defeat but in the perfection of the character of its participants."

                                                                                                        - Gichin Funakoshi