Etiquette

Reishiki

What is reishiki?

Reishiki is a Code of Etiquette. The word Reishiki comes from two Japanese characters. The first is “REI” which has many definitions: bow, salutation, salute, courtesy, propriety, ceremony, gratitude, and appreciation. The second, “SHIKI” is defined as: ceremony, rite, or function. These terms combined translates as: Ceremonial manners – Etiquette. Some may consider this type of consideration to be conservatively old fashioned but the end goal of REI is rooted into all forms of Budo since a Martial Art without Reishiki is not an art form.

Maintaining correct Dojo etiquette is essential as it empowers students of karate, known as Karate-Ka, with a sense of discipline, respect for themselves and others. The Dojo is the place where we learn both the spirit and technique of Budo. The study of karate rewards experience, determination, discipline, patience and skill. Etiquette is a necessary integral part of Budo and without it we would be practicing nothing more than violence.

If the individual accepts the physical and mental training, they will calmer, more dignified and more humble. The beginner must practice etiquette in order to make him/herself a better person. We must not enter the dojo with malice or antagonism – you will gain nothing from this and it may result in injury or death. If you are not capable of adhering to the etiquette that follows, this Art is not the right discipline for you.

As a Karate-ka, you must understand that part of training is building spirit, character, and heart. Karate is not all about kicking and punching. At any given time, you must strive to bring the best out in yourself, and in others. Always have dignity on the floor, and never show that your spirit is broken. “Karate always starts and ends with a bow”. In other words, karate begins and ends with respect.

Upon entering and leaving the Dojo we bow; bowing is a sign of respect but it is more than this. In Japanese, Dojo is translated as “way place” and is regarded by most as a place sacred to the practice of Martial Arts; it has its own Deities who watch over the training hall and all the activities taking place there. When practitioners enter the Dojo they bow towards the area known as the Kamiza or Deity seat. In the West we have different belief systems although bowing is still important when entering the Dojo. In a way, bowing makes a physical break between the outside world with its set of rules and the Dojo environment, a place that has constraints of a different kind, with its own rules and discipline. Bowing should be used as a brief moment in time to adjust our thoughts when either entering or leaving this environment and give respect to a place that allows us to make mistakes and learn by them.

Bowing to senior grades is equally important. It is our way of showing respect to those further along the path, those who have already found much that we all seek. Always refer to the senior instructor as Sensei (teacher) and his assistants as Sempei (assistant instructor). Forgetfulness in this regard will result in press-ups, an exercise that will strengthen the body and aid the memory!

Taken seriously, karate becomes a way of life. Adhering to the lessons and the rules below mean it can be used in day to day living, not in its physicality but in its self-restraint, self-control and good manners.

Karate-ka must never attack first either mentally or physically. The Japanese phrase is Karate-Ne Sentenashi. To understand this fully may take a lifetime but it will mean you have learnt the true meaning of Karate-Do, the way of the empty hand and Wado Ryu, the way of peace.

Reishiki for karate-ka

General Dojo Reiho (Courtesy)

  • Never address your sensei as anything other than Sensei in or anywhere near the dojo.
  • Always address Senior Yudansha (Black Belts) as “Sempai” on the mat and anywhere near the dojo.
  • When bowing to a senior, do not look directly in the eyes. Look down at knee level.
  • When receiving or giving a card, certificate or award to /from an instructor/senior, use both hands (palms up) to receive or give.
  • Do not make comments or suggestions unless asked to do so, There is a purpose for the activity. Do not make sarcastic remarks during class times, as funny or harmless your intent may be, it can be construed as an act of arrogance.
  • Arguing with Sensei or Sempai regardless how small or petty it may seem is an act of an egotism and will not be tolerated.
  • When Sensei is giving you personal instruction, always acknowledge the sensei by saying “Hai” and paying attention. Never response with “ I know what I am doing” or anything other than “Hai”
  • Do not practice your geri or zuki or any other movements while Sensei is talking DIRECTLY to you.
  • When talking to your Sensei or a senior, do not cross your arms, have your hands on your hips or roll your eyes. After the conversation, don’t turn your back to your Sensei/sempai. Take three steps back, before turning your back on them.
  • Do not EVER ask about promotions, or ask to learn new techniques. It is up to your Sensei when you are ready for promotion, or to learn new techniques. You are constantly being tested.
  • Listen to your Sempai when they are helping you. Even if you feel that what they are teaching is a little different than someone else, you are in their hands for the moment, therefore abide by what they teach.
  • No jewellery, watches, chains, etc. may be worn during practice. This includes religious ornamentation. This is necessary for the safety of everyone in the dojo.
  • All Karateka must ensure that their personal hygiene is of an acceptable standard. Feet and hands should be clean with finger and toe nails trimmed short to prevent injuries.
  • When moving in the dojo, never walk directly in front of someone unless it cannot be avoided. Walk behind them so as not to put yourself in a position to be attacked.
  • Change your clothes in the appropriate changing rooms and keep the changing rooms neat and clean.
  • NEVER touch the property of others without their permission. Stealing is grounds for immediate expulsion.
  • All Karate-ka must take part in the formal warm up, supervised by an instructor.
  • All GI must be white, clean and pressed. No black or coloured GI will be allowed.
  • GI should be correctly folded when not being worn, which not only keeps it in good condition but should be regarded as a matter of discipline. It is easy to simply throw your GI into a sports bag after use. It takes time and a disciplined mind to fold it neatly each time you remove it. Ask one of the instructors to show you the correct method of folding.
  • Pay any fees (mat fees, grading costs, licence costs etc) on time without having to be asked. It is an insult to your dojo and the instructor to make them ask you for payment. It’s your obligation to pay all monies in a consistent and timely manner. If you’re having temporary financial difficulties, you should discuss it with Sensei and let him know when you plan on returning to pay your fair share.
  • If at any time you are unsure of the proper behaviour, or way of doing something, politely ask a senior student or watch what senior students do.

Outside the Dojo

  • Always acknowledge your Sensei /Sempai / Deshi. Never IGNORE them. As a
  • Mudansha (Lower Grade) it’s your responsibility to greet your senior first with something appropriate such as “Good afternoon Sensei.”
  • Keep the conversation low and to yourselves. Do not play and gossip around. Loud noises will disrupt ongoing classes. Do something that can benefit your karate training such as warming up (taiso).
  • Remember that your behaviour outside the dojo is a reflection of your true self (Shinjin). It is also a reflection of your Sensei, your dojo as well as the art of karate-do.

Inside the Dojo

  • The dojo is a sanctuary where you train: show utmost respect in the dojo.
  • Bow when entering and leaving the dojo.
  • Once in the dojo, do not leave the training floor without permission. If you need to leave the class before it has officially ended, whether it is a visit to the toilet or to catch the bus, always seek permission from the instructor. This is important because, for instance, in the event of fire, a roll call will be taken and anyone not present will be reported as missing and a search will have to be made.
  • Do not spar without supervision or permission from the instructor. There is no horseplay or joking around or excessive socializing in the dojo.
  • Proper attire (keikogi, also known as gi) is mandatory in the dojo for anyone other than beginners and must be worn correctly, for example not having your belt hanging around the neck. Unless there are special circumstances, you must be fully dressed: no shirts, socks, shoes.
  • Remove all jewellery (including earrings, watches, toe rings etc) before training.

Late Comers

  • It is in the Karate-ka’s best interest to be in the Dojo ready to train at the designated time. If not, valuable training time is wasted.
  • If Karate-ka arrives late, stand at the side of the class and wait for permission to join the class.
  • After completing the correct number of press-ups, (the instructor will provide guidance as to number), the student may join in with the session.
    On no account should a student join the class without first gaining permission from the instructor.

Getting Ready For Class

  • Warm up and stretch while waiting for class to start. The dojo is NOT a designated place to gossip!
  • If ever you are sitting on the floor, do not show the bottom of your feet towards the Shomen (front of the dojo).
  • Do not fidget and look around; discipline yourself to stay still! This is part of your training in regards to self control.

During Keiko (Training)

  • Never crack jokes, cry, moan or whine during training. The golden rule: NEVER TALK DURING KEIKO!
  • When corrected, your only response should be “Hai Sensei” at all times, never respond with “Oh, right” or “yeah, I know!” to your Sensei/Senior. This is considered rude and it reeks of arrogance.
  • Never interrupt your Sensei while he/she is giving instructions. It is considered very rude in any culture to talk while an instructor or a senior is addressing the class.
  • If you have a question regarding the techniques taught during class, wait for your sensei to finish and raise your hand.
  • Control is the ability to put everything into a technique, yet stop it just before you damage your opponent and must be practiced at all times in the dojo. To exercise that control that is to control yourself.
  • When Sensei gives the command “Yame!” It means everyone must STOP what they are doing and stand in attention.
  • Never show that you are tired, bored or bring “attitude” whilst training.
  • Do not fix your uniform unless your sensei tells you to do so. When fixing your kiekogi or obi, kneel down on one knee.
  • If you have injuries ALWAYS tell your Sensei in ADVANCE!

Leaving the Dojo

  • Once the class is over, you may practice quietly provided there are no other classes scheduled for that day.
  • Never leave the dojo without saying goodbye to anyone especially your sensei.
  • Bow when leaving the dojo.
  • Remember to take all your belongings with you, such as water bottles, syllabus books and other personal items. They are your own responsibility. If you use the dojo equipment, such as punch and kick bags, please make sure to put it back where it belongs.

Reishiki for Sempai

  • As a Sempai (senior), it is significant for you to lead by example, on and off the floor. Again, you are a reflection of your Sensei and the Dojo.
  • When assisting a deshi (student) assist him or her with techniques at hand. Do not OVER TEACH! The key word is “Assist”!
  • Reishiki for all – including karate-ka, parents, volunteers, non-members etc
  • Encourage children to learn the rules and stay within them.
    Teach children to respect their seniors.
  • Help children to recognise good performance, not just results, to avoid undue disappointment.
  • Never punish or belittle a child for losing or making mistakes.
  • Support children’s involvement and help them to enjoy their sport.
  • Remember that, for the children, the aim of the sport is to have fun, improve and feel good.
  • Set a good example by applauding all good performance, whether by your child or by another.
  • Remember that young people learn best by example.
  • Recognise the value and importance of volunteers, coaches and event organisers – it is their time and dedication that keeps the sport alive.
  • Young people are involved in organised sport for their enjoyment, not yours, so do not force your child to take part.
  • Treat everyone equally and sensitively regardless of their age, gender, ethnic origin, cultural background, sexual orientation, religion or political affiliation.
  • Due to your association with Sei Do Kan, accept the special role that you have to play in the establishment of standards by setting a good example of behaviour and conduct at all times.
  • Do not manipulate the rules in order to benefit yourself personally or the club.
  • Encourage others to abide by the rules and spirit of the sport.
  • Do not use foul, sexist or racist language.
  • Bring to the attention of Sei Do Kan officials anyone connected to the club who harasses, abuses or uses foul, sexist or racist language towards participants, officials, instructors/coaches.

Respect the rights of other clubs.

  • Show respect to officials, instructors/coaches, participants and others involved in the sport.
  • Do not endeavour to influence the result of, for example, a grading or a competition by any actions that are not strictly within the rules of karate.
  • Remember sport is enjoyed for its own sake – play down the importance of winning. Always have regards to the best interest of karate, including where publicly expressing an opinion on the sport or any particular aspect of it, including others involved in it.
  • Resist illegal or unsporting influences, including banned substances and techniques.
  • Promote ethical principles.
  • Accept the decisions of the officials without protest.
  • Avoid words or actions which may mislead an official.

(With thanks to alljapankarate.com and helpforclubs.org.uk)