The importance of dojo etiquette in Karate
By Ryan Francis
Introduction:
When talking about etiquette, one might automatically think in terms of brushed
hair, trimmed nails, and regular bathing which is true in some respect but in
karate this extends much further. The karateka uses etiquette at the beginning
and conclusion of each class when they bow to their sensei. Every aspect and
facet of karate relies on this principle in some way. In my essay i will be
splitting my writings into two main divisions. Basic etiquette; which incorporates
manners, hygiene and common sense. And mental etiquette; thus incorporating
respect, trust, self control and awareness.
Basic
Etiquette:
Basic etiquette can generally be referred to as common sense, taking into account
rules and behaviour that a student should already be accustomed to doing and
ensuring that other students follow as well. Some of these things include:
personal hygiene; Making sure that your hands and
feet are clean, nails are trimmed and kept short to avoid scratching, bathing
regularly, after all no-one wants to train with someone if they smell.
If you are unable to make it to a class due to sickness, injury or prior engagement.
Phone sensei to let him know that you wont be able to attend. When you are being
taught a technique, movement or being corrected on any mistakes that you may
have been making, It is important to acknowledge and thank the instructor. Although
as a student you should always endeavour to arrive to class on time, If you
have arrived late promptly sign in, do your kneeling bow and wait for permission
to join the class. All of these rules can be found in your dojo manual, and
a student should take it upon themselves to read and review these rules on a
regular basis to ensure they are followed.
Respect:
Respect is one of the main foundations upon which karate is based. It begins
as soon as you enter the dojo and long after you exit the dojo. When you first
enter the dojo you bow as a show of appreciation for having an area within which
to train. For without a dojo training cannot commence and we are left unable
to train. After entering the dojo you bow to your sensei and sempai’s,
for your sensei is under no obligation to turn up to each class to train his
students. Therefor a bow is given aknowledging their competency as an instructor
and a humble show of appreciation to say thank you for taking the time to train
me, the same also applies to a sempai. Once you have accomplished this you may
then join the rest of your fellow students for training. Respect shown towards
and from your colleagues when training is essential, the opinions and views
of your peers may not always be right or wrong but should be utilised as creative
imput to take on board and incorporated into your technique and training. When
respect is not shown either towards your sensei or your fellow students bickering
and fighting can result. And finally a student should have respect for his/her
self, one should not belittle their technique or training but at the same time
there is no room in karate for ego. A student should accept and be happy with
their level of competency and always be willing to improve. If their is a technique
or movement that you are not completely happy with, practice until you are satisfied.
Always remember that no matter what level you have reached or how competent
you are at karate you never stop learning. And lastly a student should never
expect respect from their sensei or fellow peers, respect is earnt not demanded.
Trust:
Trust is another essential part of karate. A student requires trust from his/her
fellow students when training in the dojo. When performing sanbon kumite your
opponent needs to be trusted to, when performing the techniques to pull their
punches, strikes and kicks. When performing self defence techniques to use pressure
points and chokes with care. When performing knife defence or using a weapon
ie a bo or escrima sticks to know that your partner will take extra care in
their techniques. Without having the knowledge that your partner will do these
things injuries can and will occur. While having trust in your opponent is important
a student must also have trust in themselves and their abilities. As with your
opponent, you must know when to pull a strike inches from your opponent or to
take extra care when using weapons. You must also know your limits, knowing
when you are physically unfit to train because of injury or sickness, and to
know when you are mentally unfit to train. Knowing your limits allows for a
student to know how competent they really are and what areas they can focus
on for improvement. having trust between you and your partner will initiate
self confidence with your training in karate and in life, trust will also bring
safety. always remember that you can never force or order someone to trust you,
to earn trust sometimes you must first be willing to trust others.
Self
Control:
One of the hardest virtues a student will need on their path of learning is
self control. Situations will arise where a student will be put in a position
of being provoked into using their training. It will be at these times that
a student must have the self control to make the right choice. It takes more
courage for a student to ignore provocation and leave than to enter a conflict
to which only an ego will benefit. With self control will come awareness which
is referred to as Zanshin. A student should always attempt to be in a state
of constant awareness so that it will make it harder for an attacker to surprise
you. Also, in having a constant state of awareness a student will learn to appreciate
their surroundings more, building a students character. Through this a student
becomes accepting of their circumstance and will find themselves coming to a
humbling realisation of their existence. This will begin to change the way a
student addresses those around them be it peers, friends, co-workers or family.
When an argument or disagreement arises a student will then have the self control
to find a peaceful solution to the problem. Through self control a student develops
life skills and better character, making them a better person.
Conclusion:
Etiquette i feel, is one of the basic foundations of karate, without it karate
would not exist. Etiquette is much than just a set of rules and manners to memorise,
it is a frame of mind and a way to build character. This is not just restricted
to karate either but can be incorporated into everyday life. Using etiquette
yourself and encouraging others to do the same will improve your way of life.