GOJU-RYU KARATE-DO DOJO ETIQUETTE

1. When entering the Dojo, say ONEGAISHIMAS’ (please instruct me) and bow simultaneously.

When leaving the Dojo, say SH’TSUREI SHIMAS’ (permission to leave) and bow simultaneously.

2. Before stepping onto a mat or tatami you must bow. Before stepping off a mat or tatami you must bow.

3. The following commands apply to the ceremonies of the Dojo which are performed at the beginning and conclusion of a training session.

A) SEIRET’S - Line up and stand at attention

B) SEIZA - Kneel in order of seniority

C) MOK’SO - Eyes closed in order to meditate

D) MOK’SO YAME - Cease meditating, eyes open.

E) Recite the five virtues of Goju-Ryu Karate

THE FIVE VIRTUES OF GOJU-RYU KARATE

We the students of Goju do aspire to the following virtues:

1.       We are proud to study the way of Goju.

2.       We are courteous in manners

3.       We are simple but manly

4.       We cultivate the spirit or cooperation with sincerity

5.       We respect the spirit of chivalry traditional from olden times in Japan.

F) SHINZEN NI TAISHITE - To the shrine

G) REI - Bow       NAOTE - Resume kneeling position

H) SENSEI (Sensei’s name) NI TAISHITE – bow to sensei or Shihan

I) REI - Bow         NAOTE - Resume kneeling position

J) SEM PAl NI TAISHITE - To Dan grades if present.

K) REI - Bow        NAOTE - Resume kneeling position

 L) OTAGAI NI TAISHITE - To each other

M) REI- Bow and say “ONEGAISHIMAS” (Beginning of training) “DOMO ARIGATO GOZAIMASH’TA” (End training)

N) NAOTE - Resume kneeling position.

4. The following are general commands used in the Dojo:

i. SHI REI - Bow to the master.

ii. When the Master explains anything to the students, he will ask “WAKATTAKA” - Do you understand.

iii. If the students understand they will respond with HAl SENSEI

iv. If the students do not understand, they will take one step forward, raise their hand and say “WAKARIMASEN” - I do not understand