Important note: This post was originally written intended Brazilians Karatedo-kas who have no language skills to read in English or do not have access to the important book "Traditional Karate-Do - Okinawa Goju Ryu Vol.1," Morio Hiagaonna Sensei, 1985". Therefore, it aims to be a bridge between the work of M. Higaonna Sensei and that public. Citations of the 'points of etiquette' have to be done addressing the work of Higaonna Sensei (see reference below). Let's address a very important aspect during Karate practice, the conduct that each of us Karate practitioners should adopt in the dojos.
In his book "Traditional Karate-Do - Okinawa Goju Ryu Vol.1," Morio Hiagaonna Sensei outlines 30 etiquette items for Karate practitioners.
Higaonna Sensei emphasizes that the dojo is a sacred place where we train both physically and mentally (Higaonna, 1985). Therefore, as Karate practitioners, we should observe some important points of etiquette in the dojo as outlined by Higaonna Sensei [1]:
Follow the training schedule and arrive on time.
Remove outer clothing and neatly place shoes.
Let senior students enter the dojo first if they're behind you.
Upon entering, say 'Onegaishimasu' clearly and cheerfully.
Bow to the dojo shrine as a sign of respect.
Be polite to instructors, seniors, and elders.
Use the restroom before practice.
Keep training clothes clean and neat.
Be mindful of your physical condition.
Trim fingernails and toenails to prevent injury.
Avoid eating an hour before practice.
Warm up before practice, even if alone.
Sit properly while observing training.
Line up smartly when training begins.
During meditation ('Mokuso!'), concentrate on breathing.
Listen carefully and seriously to advice and instructions.
Handle training equipment with care.
Listen carefully and sincerely to advice given.
Know your limits; don't force the impossible.
Instructors should monitor students' physical condition.
Join closing exercises five minutes before the end.
Sit in the 'seiza' form after closing exercises.
Focus and recite dojo precepts.
Bow to show appreciation to instructors and peers.
Beginners ask senior students for guidance.
Always be thankful for karate advice.
Avoid excessively hot baths and prolonged time in them.
Smoking has no positive effects on health.
Don't practice with injuries; observe training instead.
Upon leaving, say 'Arigato gozaimashita' or 'Shitsurei shimasu'..
Following these etiquette points helps create a respectful and disciplined environment within the dojo. どうもありがとうございます。 Reference: 1- Hiagaonna M. 1985. Traditional Karate-DO - Okinawa Goju Ryu Vol. 1 Fundamental Techniques. Sugawara Martial Arts Institute 169 p.
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