Bows-  We bow, not for religious reasons, but to show respect.  We do a 9-second bow in order to show self-control, self-discipline, and respect.  We bow when entering and leaving the dojang.  We also bow when stepping on or off the mat area. 

Yes Sir/Yes Ma’am- In the dojang, we show respect to the black belts by answering, “Yes Sir”, or “Yes Ma’am”.  It is also proper to end all responses to your instructors with “Sir” or “Ma’am”.

Use 2 hands-  It is always considered more polite and respectful to take and receive items with two hands.  If the item is small such as a pencil, support your wrist with the other hand.  It is also more respectful to shake with two hands as well.

Jewelry-  Because of the physical nature of karate, jewelry may cause harm to others or yourself.  Watches, earrings, and necklaces can get in the way and should not be worn.

Keep your uniform clean-  Please be sure to keep your uniform clean and odor free.  It is not advised to eat or play outside with your uniform.  Traditionally, the belt is not washed because it “absorbs” your knowledge. 

Your belt represents you-  Please have pride in your belt.  Your belt represents you and all the hard work you put into karate.  Please be sure your belt never touches the floor, the same you would never let the American flag touch the floor. 

Using Equipment-  Be sure to ask an instructor for permission before using training equipment such as body shields, hand targets, and blockers.  When you are done, be sure to put them away neatly.

Punctuality-  Please be sure to arrive a few minutes early for class.  It is typically considered disrespectful to the instructor to be late to class.  We do understand, however, that certain obstacles may get in the way.  If you are late for class, please stand or kneel at the edge of the mat until the instructor acknowledges you to enter class.

Belongings-  Please be sure to store your shoes, socks, and other belongings neatly.  Remember, the school is not responsible for lost or stolen property.

Leaving your children-  Please be sure to pick up your children immediately after class.  We cannot be responsible for your  children when they are not in class.

Protective Equipment and weapons-  You should bring all your equipment on sparring days (Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday).  You cannot spar without your mouthpiece and rib guard for gold belts and higher.

Shoes in class-  Typically, shoes are not worn in class.  If you have martial arts shoes, please be sure they are worn in class only because they may attract dirt and glass from the outside.  Shoes may tend to give you an unstable footing because of bad arch support, which may result in injured ankles.  Socks alone are discouraged because they may cause you to slip and fall since it does not give you a firm grip to the floor. 

T-Shirts-  In order to help us cope with the hot summers, we have a designated “T-shirt” season.  This is typically June through August.  In order to maintain uniformity, only America’s Best Karate T-shirts may be worn.  When not in season, please wear your full unform.