Newcastle Sendai Karate Club

Your first Time?

Karate is mostly following a huge amount of history, but when starting, it is useful to have some basic information. Mostly being good manners and common sense, here are a few tips on how to start off well. Thanks to Rob McCartney at York Kenshinkan for this 'ready reckoner':-

All members must have a valid KUGB licence. Beginners should apply for one within two weeks of joining the club.
Always bow on entering and leaving the Dojo.
In the Dojo always address instructors as "Sensei".
If you wish to grade you should train at least twice a week.
Do not leave the class (before a session is finished), without asking permission from the Instructor.
Always arrive on time for a session. If you arrive late you must take up a kneeling position at the front of the Dojo (where the Sensei can see you) and wait for permission from the Instructor before joining the class. On receiving permission, bow and then join the class.(Make sure that you have warmed up outside the Dojo and do not distract the class.)
Say "Oss" as a sign of respect upon receiving advice or commands from the Instructor. (Or any other appropriate situations such as when bowing at the start and finish of the class, or when bowing to your partner during Kumite, or during gradings etc).
Keep yourself and your Gi clean and in good condition. (i.e.Cut your nails etc and remove any rings or jewellery. If they can't be removed they should be covered with tape).
Do not eat in the Dojo. Only drink water if allowed by the Instructor during the session.
Do not bring the club into disrepute by using your skills offensively outside the Dojo. Karate should be used for self defence and only then as a last resort.
You may only grade with your instructors permission. If you wish to grade at another club you must obtain written permission from your instructor so that you can show it at the grading. You must have an up-to- date licence in order to grade.
While waiting your turn to grade do not talk or distract those that are already grading. Do not walk around the Dojo but wait patiently for your turn and listen for when your name is called. When your name is called shout "Sensei", bow and move quickly to the grading area in the correct position. Remember to keep the correct position during the grading otherwise you will confuse the examiner. After your grading again wait patiently while others continue with their grading. This is a good opportunity to see what is expected of you in the next grading. If the Sensei speaks to you during the grading or gives you advice remember to reply with "Oss" as described above.