Rules & Etiquette

Observance of martial customs, courtesies, and dojang (Korean for training hall) rules is part of our training. Dojang etiquette develops personal discipline, heightens awareness, contributes to a better, more efficient learning environment, and promotes safety and good health. We observe the following dojang etiquette:

1. Bowing
   1. Bowing is a mutual greeting like a handshake or a salute – it is not subservience. Greet the instructor and fellow students by bowing.
      
   2. We bow before stepping on to the mat to signify readiness to train and when leaving the mat to signify the end of your workout.
      
   3. The class and instructor bow to each other at the beginning and end of class – it’s the equivalent of saying “thank you” for the instruction to which the instructor replies, “You’re welcome.”
      
   4. Bow to practice partners before and after each block of training to thank them for assisting you.
      
      
2. Formation
   Line up in “ready” position with senior student at right front and junior student at left rear. If you lack a belt or uniform or are a guest of the school, then stand at left side of rear line.The instructor will take a position in the front center of the class. The highest-ranking member in the class will give the beginning and ending class commands.When awaiting the start of your class when another class is ending, then follow the end of class routine with the departing class.
   
   
3. Safety and Cleanliness
   Keep your dobok (Korean for uniform) clean and neat at all times. Keep fingernails and toenails clipped and clean to prevent injury.Secure long hair.No watches or jewelry.Remove shoes before stepping onto the mat. Store them in the dressing room or neatly along the mat edge.No horseplay or unsupervised sparring.All school members help keep the dojang clean.Obey the instructor at all times.Report injuries immediately to the instructor.Use training equipment as directed by the instructor. Return it to place of storage when you finish with it.Full safety equipment (mouthpiece, cup, headgear, footgear, gloves – OPTIONAL: chest protector, shin guards) will be worn when free sparring unless otherwise authorized by the master instructor.
   
   
4. Courtesy.
   In order to show consideration for your fellow students:Be quiet and attentive during the class.Be on time for class. If late, report to the instructor before joining the class.If you arrive early, then change, warm-up, and stretch without loud talking.Once class begins, report to the instructor prior to departing the mat area.Tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, chewing gum, and food are prohibited in the dojang.Face toward a wall when adjusting dobok.
   
   
5. Discipline
   Control yourself – temper, language (no profanity), actions, gestures, and expressions – at all times.Maintain good posture with hands to side, front, or back (not on hips).Sit properly with legs crossed without leaning on walls.Move quickly and with purpose.
   
   
6. Responsibility
   Your knowledge is for self-defense; use it accordingly.Know your limits and your partner’s limits. Cooperate with each other during practice to avoid injury.Senior students set the example for others. They always assist less experienced students.Obey and enforce the dojang rules.The penalty for failure to follow the dojang rules is dismissal.