Karate and the martial arts is a different setting than a regular classroom. All teachers expect respect in the classroom, however within the martial arts more is expected of you. Why? Well you start training together, sweating, working with weapons, or even partners you can be seriously hurt if you don’t listen and pay attention to the Sensei (instructor/teacher).

So when you see a Udancha (black belts) coming in the door the first time. If you are the first one to see them, call out “KEOSKEI” which means come to attention. (hands and feet together standing up). Face the door way and wait for everyone else to stand up and get up. Then call “REI” which means to bow. This can happen anytime throughout the class whether its in the middle of a workout, or at the beginning of class any black belt coming in deserves the respectful bow-in.

When working with partners, please bow before starting your moves or exercises (as a greeting) and again bow once you conclude with the exercise.

When you are being taught whether its by a black belt or an assistant, please wait for an appropriate time to ask questions and ask in a respectful manner according to the situation. (such as raising your hand so the Sensei can see you).

~ Sensei Sasha