Last Updated on Saturday, 02 January 2010 21:45 Thursday, 02 December 2004 09:51

We must abide by the rules of the dojo whilst training (and whilst not training too!).

The Dojo is the place where we train. It is important to respect the Dojo and observe the following rules:

1. Dojo means 'A Sacred Place'; treat it as such.
2. Do not wear shoes on the Dojo training area.
3. No drugs, cigarettes or alcohol are permitted in the Dojo.
4. Do not enter the Dojo late or leave it early without the acknowledgement of the highest rank in attendance.
5. Do not swear or use disrespectful gestures or breach any rules as determined by the highest rank.
6. Always train with 'true' attitude of Bushido.
7. Never abuse fighting skill, always fight defensively and use these skills to assist lower ranks.
8. Always be clean in body and appearance.
9. Bow upon entering or leaving the training area of the Dojo.
10. Never walk in front of your seniors.
11. Always address your seniors by their proper titles.
12. When placing or removing belts, students should kneel on their right knees.
13. Students are to line up in order of rank from left (highest rank) to right (lowest rank), standing opposite the instructor (rank is indicated by belt colour and seniority of training time).
14. Black belts are to line up in order of rank with the highest ranked instructor in the centre, then alternating order of rank with the second highest rank to the right, the third highest rank to the left and so on.
15. Within the black belt hierarchy, grade (Dan) ranking primarily designates seniority. However, where two black belts are of the same rank, the one with the higher teaching title is considered the higher rank.
16. Higher ranked coloured belts should endeavour to set a good example to lower ranked students and assume responsibility for the behaviour and conduct of lower ranked students.
17. If a student must adjust their Gi (uniform) during training, they must wait until the end of the activity in progress then turn to the back of the class prior to adjusting their Gi or belt.
18. During training, there should be no idle talking between students.
19. Students and black belts are not permitted to use training equipment without first obtaining permission from the instructor.
20. All students are to participate in any competition in strict accordance with the competition rules and in the spirit of good sportsmanship.
21. During training, all students should be aware that the level of intensity of their training is at an appropriate level when partnered up with another student, taking into consideration the other students age, weight and gender.
22. Zen Do Kai tradition encourages that new black belts wear their belts continuously for at least 24 hours after successfully attaining their Sho Dan Ho (probationary 1st Degree) title.
23. When it comes to financial problems, Samurai would conduct discussions and would never argue on such matters.