***ANNOUNCEMENTS***

Ataru SKC Grading Success

Elements of Karate

Shotokan Karate can be broken down into three primary elements for practice:-

Kihon - "foundation, basis, standard"
Kata - "mould, model, style, shape, data type"
Kumite - "wooden joints"

Please refer to the 'Media' section on the right hand side for examples.

Dojo Etiquette

In addition to the above, it can also be said that Dojo Etiquette is a fourth element, however Dojo Etiquette should encapsulate your whole Karate training through Kihon, Kata and Kumite.

Proper etiquette is an aspect of karate derived from its Japanese heritage and is a very important part of your training regardless of it's tradition.

Contemporary Dojo Etiquette should be observed as follows:-

1. Bow on entering and leaving the Dojo

2. Address all Instructors as 'Sensei' whilst in the Dojo

3. 'Oss' is a sign of respect, and is used generally in Karate, especially in the following situations:

Upon receiving any advice or command from the Instructor the student must reply by answering 'Oss'
When bowing at the start and finish of the class.
When bowing to your partner before Kumite.
In any other appropriate situation, for instance during gradings or competitions.

4. Members must not leave the class without first obtaining permission from the Sensei.

5. Members arriving late must take up the kneeling position at the front of the Dojo, and await permission from the instructor before joining the class. On receiving permission, bow and then join the class.

6. Karate-Gis must be kept clean and in good condition.

7. Finger and toe nails must be kept clean and short.

8. Jewellery or the like must not be worn during training. If you cannot remove jewellery, it must be covered by tape.

9. Finally, as a member of the JKAE, you must not behave in any manner that is likely to offend the etiquette of the Dojo.