Class Requirements & Guidelines
1. Bowing (Formal and Informal) is used as a symbol of respect – not of worship – as you enter or exit the room where class is held, to begin and end class, when joining or separating from a lineup or group being formally addressed during class, and as otherwise directed. Bowing is also a reminder to be focused and that running or fooling around in the Dojo (school) is never allowed or tolerated.
2. Promptness is expected! If lateness is unavoidable, join the class immediately and integrate with as little disruption as possible. If class is in lineup, fall in at the rear ofthe lineup and not according to your rank. Report to the Instructor after lineup, or as otherwise directed, with the reason for your lateness.
3. Remove shoes, jewelry, gum, candy and the like before entering the Dojo.
4. Attendance for a Bible Study at the beginning of each session is required. The studies are based on subjects such as humility, respect, self-control and discipline.
5. Two (2) books are required for every class – a Bible, and a Notebook to record what you are shown in class for future reference and for personal practice at home.
6. Be sure that all your words are edifying and encouraging to one another.
7. Respect, for others and the teacher(s), is expected at all times. Words such as “Yes or No” and “Sir or Ma’am” are expected, regardless of age or rank but especially when addressing a Black Belt or one instructing. “Yeah” and “Nah” are never permitted. A Certified Instructor should be addressed according to their earned title of Sensei and a 5th Degree Black Belt or above, according to their earned title of Master.
8. Clean bare feet and proper hygiene, to include clean, trimmed nails are preferred for class.
9. A uniform (Gi) is not required initially, but a traditional, white Gi with the required patches (see below), is required to test for Yellow Belt certification and for all subsequent lessons/testing going forward. Prior to the purchase of a Gi, wear
comfortable, modest, workout clothes in good condition. No holes; not soiled; and no clothing with questionable messages. If in doubt, do not wear it.
10. All students must maintain a passing grade in each subject at school to continue lessons and karate class participation.
11. Parents are required to be present for the entire class time if children are 4th grade and under.
12. If a student is found to be using his or her karate in an inappropriate manner they will be warned. If the behavior continues, they will be removed from training indefinitely.
13. The following is a list of the average, typical requirements you will be expected to demonstrate, per belt, for promotion to the next belt level:
- Three (3) Katas [Plus one for a Weapon chosen at Green Belt level].
- Twenty (20) Self-Defense/Leverage Techniques [Two (2) against each of ten (10) specific attacks].
- Five (5) Hand Strikes [Board breaking introduced at Green Belt level].
- Eight (8) Foot Strikes [Board breaking introduced at Green Belt level].
- Four (4) Blocks [Sparring introduced at Yellow Belt level].
- Various Additional Tasks (i.e. Belt tying, counting #1-10 in Japanese, etc.).