Dojo Etiquette
A few tips to help you in the dojo:
At Whitemud Karate Club, we believe that training works best when everyone feels respected, safe, and supported. These guidelines help us keep our dojo a positive space for learning and growth:
General Class Expectations
Show respect for yourself, your fellow karateka, and the dojo space. This means treating others kindly, helping prepare or tidy up the dojo, and taking care to dispose of garbage.
Always bow when entering and leaving the dojo.
Gis must be white. Any visible accessories (like undershirts) should also be white to keep our appearance consistent.
Address black belts as “Sensei” and brown belts as “Sempai” as a sign of courtesy.
Give your best effort in every class. It’s not about perfection, but about trying hard.
When an instructor is speaking, stop and listen carefully.
During kumite, remember: you are training with your partner, not against them. The goal is to learn together, never to hurt or embarrass.
Higher belts may be asked to help lower belts—please only teach when invited to do so. Otherwise, stay focused on your own training.
Hand pads are required during kumite; leg pads are optional.
Please do not eat, drink (other than water), or chew gum on the dojo floor. Roughhousing isn’t permitted.
WKC Rules
These rules are essential to keeping our community safe and respectful. Not following them may result in membership being revoked.
Students must treat others with respect at all times. Bullying, intentional harm, or embarrassment will not be tolerated.
Karateka are expected to carry their training responsibly: do not provoke or respond to violence outside the dojo.
Colored belts (kyu) may not teach karate to non‑members under any circumstance.
Free kumite is only allowed with permission from the Dojo Sensei.