Classroom Etiquette

On The Mat

• The mat is more than a place for merely training; it is a place where one seeks to perfect character, and to master their mind, body and spirit. The mat is considered a very special place and is treated with respect.
• No shoes are to be worn on the mat. Shoes, bags and clothing are placed in our dressing rooms. Students are expected to keep their things neat, clean and organized, as well as their minds and their lives.

Class Time

• There is to be no unnecessary talking when a class is in session, even if you are not in class.
• Questions or comments during class should be kept to a minimum and related directly to the subject at hand. If you have a relevant question while the instructor is occupied, so not keep your hand up after you see that they have noticed that you have a question. This is distracting to others in the class and to the instructor, who may be attempting to explain an important and difficult point. The instructor will usually explain the material you need to know in class.
• Students should signal by raising their hands when they need help.
• Students should be respectful and thank their instructor after class for their instruction.
• If the instructor asks a student to help demonstrate a technique, the student should run to where the instructor designates and wait until the instructor begins.
• While training with an instructor or a fellow student try not to be spastic when you train. This observation will protect not just yourself but also your partner from unnecessary injury.
• If a student should arrive late, after they are bowed into class. they must perform all of the warm-up activities before joining in with the rest of the class.

Humility and respect for those below as well as above in rank is the mark of a true martial artist. Arrogance and cockiness is the sure sign of one who is far from achieving true mastery of either themselves or the martial arts.