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The Dojo

A dojo is a miniature cosmos where we make contact with ourselves- our fears, anxieties, reactions, and habits. It is an arena of confined conflict where we confront an opponent who is not an opponent but rather a partner engaged in helping us understand ourselves more fully. It is a place where we can learn a great deal in a short time about who we are and how we react in the world. The conflicts that take place inside the dojo help us handle conflicts that take place outside. The total concentration and discipline required to study martial arts carries over to daily life. The activity in the dojo calls on us to constantly attempt new things, so it is also a source of learning- in Zen terminology, a source of self-enlightenment.

Joe Hyams Zen in the Martial Arts


Please read this for some further insight. It is a document on the Dojo as a Microcosm of the World (PDF Format)

Martial Arts Etiquette & Dojo Policies and Procedures
  1. We believe having respect is not enough unless we demonstrate respect. Students will behave as ladies and gentlemen at all times, both inside and outside the dojo.
  2. Each student will bow upon entering and leaving the dojo
  3. Should you arrive late to class, quickly line up to request permission to enter class.
  4. Students will follow the instructions of their instructors.
  5. Students will pay attention in class. If you are not at the dojo to train seriously don't waste your, your fellow students time or Sensei's time
  6. Do not criticize other martial arts or other martial artists
  7. No alcohol or drugs before class.
  8. No candy or gum in the dojo.
  9. No student will provoke violence or allow himself/herself to be provoked into violence.
  10. No sparring without the express permission of Sensei or your class instructor.
  11. No loud talking, horseplay or profanity is permitted. The dojo is a place of serious study
  12. Personal cleanliness is essential, nails must be clipped, feet and hands must be clean and hair must not interfere with your training
  13. All jewelry must be removed before entering the dojo.
  14. All students must wear clean karate gis or exercise clothing appropriate for a public fitness club.
  15. All membership fees are to be paid on time.
  16. Students are not permitted to teach anything to any other member without Sensei's express permission. [Under no circumstances will any member teach any form of karate to any non-member.]
  17. All students must refer to the head instructor as Sensei (one who has gone before), which is a honourable way of saying teacher. The assistant instructor's title is Senpai.

 
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