dojo etiquette
Dojo etIquette as set forth by the S.K.I.F. are to be carefully followed. These rules have been handed down from ancient times and are continued as part of the Karate-do.
- Whenever entering or leaving the dojo, stand in the doorway, face the front, bow and say "oss".
- Remove shoes upon entering the dojo. Shoes are NEVER worn on the training floor. Shoes will be neatly placed on the shelf, not scattered about on the floor.
- Late arrivals should make themselves known to the Instructor by kneeling at the side of the Dojo floor, bowing to the Shrine or Shomen and then to the Instructor where the student must wait for permission to join the class.
- When sitting, always sit cross-legged or in seiza position. (If you have a knee problem, please speak to the Sempai.)
- While a class is in session, karate-ka should not lean against the wall or lie down on the mats. Rather, they should conduct themselves in a more acceptable manner paying strict attention to the instructions being given or the class being taught.
- The Karate student must show courtesy and respect to all instructors and fellow students. Always address the instructors by their proper title, Sensei or Sempai (senior student), inside the dojo. THIS INCLUDES PARENTS AND ADULTS.
- Acknowledge the Sensei or Sempai with a loud "Oss" when they speak to you or say "Hai (yes) Sensei" or "Hai Sempai". Always acknowledge criticism given by the instructor or any other person.
- Be on time so you will not interrupt classes or instructors by being late. It is proper to ask the instructor for permission to practice when arriving late for class, or if you need to leave early.
- Every time you get a new partner for any exercise, bow. Every time you're about to switch partners, bow to your old partner before moving on to the next.
- Treat your partner courteously and with proper etiquette. Always challenge your partner to a degree that is beneficial to his/her learning.
- Junior students must look to seniors for guidance and treat them with respect.
- Senior belts must set an example for the junior belts. You must lead junior belts by example.
- Talking back to the instructor or senior in a condescending manner is strictly forbidden, whether you think that you are right or wrong the only acceptable answer is OSS. One must be willing to obey the rules and learn self-discipline.
- Your GI must be NEAT and WASHED CLEAN at all times. Cleanliness will eliminate the possibility of offending others and a clean mind is a necessity for dedicating yourself to your training. Your belt should NEVER be washed, only air-dried. It symbolizes the spirit of your effort.
- When adjusting your GI or re-tying your belt it is proper etiquette to turn away from the front (shomen) and away from your partner. (It is improper behavior to dress or adjust your GI while facing someone.)
- Toenails and fingernails are to be kept short to prevent injury. Long hair is to be tied back during training.
- Makeup and jewelry are not to be worn during training sessions. ◦It is everyone's responsibility to ensure the Dojo is clean, tidy and safe at all times.
- Dojo fees must always be paid on time. This is also Karate, it is disrespectful to expect an instructor or club secretary to remind you of such matters.
Common Terms used in the dojo
- Dojo: Place of the way; Training room
- Karate: Empty hand or China hand
- Karate-do: Way of the empty hand
- Karateka: Person that practices the art of karate-do
- Kata: Form
- Kiai: A fighting yell combining physical and spiritual energy
- Kihon: Basic training
- Kumite: Sparring or partner work
- Sparring Kamae: Fighting position with focus on attack or defense
- Mokuso: Meditation
- OSS: Phonetic expression meaning: “push on”, thank you, please, I understand, sorry. In karate it is used nearly every time a response is required. The word should be spoken by using the Hara (tanden), in the lower abdomen. Spoken while performing a bow, the word OSS expresses respect, sympathy and confidence to your partner. OSS also tells your sensei that his/her instructions were understood, and that the student will do his/her best to follow them. OSS is used with the salutation to the teacher (sensei-ni-rei) and to each other (otagai-ni-rei). The OSS at the beginning is a request to go together in the Way of Karate, and an OSS at the end of the class, in thanks.
- Otagai-ni-rei: Salutation (bow) to each other (Mutual salutation)
- Sensei: Instructor, teacher
- Sensei-ni-rei: Salutation (bow) to the teacher
- Sempai: Senior student •
- Sempai-ni-rei: Salutation (bow) to senior student
- Shomen-ni-rei: Salutation to the front
- Shotokan: “Hall of Shoto”, Shoto means “billowy pine trees” and was the name of Master Funakoshi when he wrote poetry in his youth. Kan means a large building or hall.
- Domo, Arigato, and Domo Arigato Gozaimas: Thank you in various degrees of politeness.
Grading Philosophy
Peak Performance Kyu Testing and Rank Philosophy
Peak Performance Shotokan Karate-Do is affiliated with Shotokan Karate International Federation (SKIF) and Shotokan karate International Federation –USA. We are dedicated to the teachings and curriculum as put forth by Kancho Kanazawa.
What is testing in Shotokan Karate and why is it important:
Testing is an opportunity for a student to demonstrate how s/he has grown in his or her knowledge and skills in the fundamentals of Shotokan Karate. It allows the student to demonstrate his or her skills to the chief instructor, other instructors and other students in the Dojo. This is done in the presence of the entire dojo. The chief instructor acknowledges that a student has reached the new level of growth by passing them to the next kyu or black belt ranks. Higher rank is recognized by a change in belt color or titles within the kyu and black belt levels. These principles are focusing on the kyu ranks. Remember that testing is like a road marker, it is a way for you to check to see how far you have come and find out what you need to continue.
As a student begins their journey in learning Shotokan Karate, there are fundamental or basic techniques, applications of these techniques and a philosophy of what these techniques mean and why are they essential to the study of karate for the student to explore. With each step the student demonstrates their growth and knowledge. Each progression is symbolized by a belt color and rank. Each student should understand the ranks….as these provide the framework for teaching and learning within the dojo. Each level has a new responsibility and respect and it takes time to move up through the ranks. Details on the test specifics are described in the “Testing Requirements” section of this website.
Remember:
There is a minimum of 3 months training between each kyu rank up until you reach 3rd kyu (or first level of brown belt). After 3rd kyu there is a minimum of 6 month between tests.
How do you know when you are ready to test?
Students will work with your instructors to determine if you are ready to test. An instructor’s verbal permission is required to test at all levels. The skills you will demonstrate in the test are specific for each level and defined in the “Testing Requirements” section of this website.
Each time you test you will be tested on the basics, kata and kumite required for that level. And you will be asked to perform any kata that you previously learned…..’which one’ is selected by the Chief Instructor. Each kata is a building block in your training. And as you grow in your understanding of kata, how you perform the kata will show an increased understanding of its applications or ‘bunkai’ and its technique. Seeking this permission allows a student and instructor to agree that the student is ready to move to the next level. It does not guarantee that the student will pass, but if a student decides to test without discussing it with their instructor the results will be mixed.
The Testing Process
- It is Peak Performance’s goal is to provide a test every 6-8 weeks to encourage students test.
- Testing schedules will be posted in the dojo and on the website.
- Testing fees are also posted in the dojo and on the website.
- Your test is not just the day of testing but includes how you have trained in classes leading up to the test. Hence the saying: “Train like you test and test like you train!”
- All elements of the test must be done with full speed and spirit. No move should be done in slow motions or without intent.
- During the test you must show ultimate respect for your Sensei, Instructor, fellow testing students, other students and yourself.
- Bowing and Kia’s are important…don’t forget them.
- When not on the floor testing, please sit or stand quietly at the back of the room.
- Watch the test…you will learn something with each test.
- The test is a part of your journey and a cause for celebration and a sense of humility.
- The test is a time to experience a communal dojo sense of pride and support for each other.
Who are the instructors that administer the test?
Sensei Chris Johnson has the title of Chief Instructor which is the highest position in the dojo. She is a sixth degree black belt and the owner of the Peak Performance dojo. Sensei Chris administers the test for the kyu ranks and has other high ranking Masters in the organization administering black belt tests. (There are separate guidelines for black belts). When Sensei Chris administers the kyu tests another instructor or instructors who have helped train the students may also sit at the testing table, and provide input into the student’s test and how the student has demonstrated their karate knowledge and skills during training and during the test. It is the Chief Instructor, Sensei Chris, who decides whether a student is ready to move to the next level.
Test Results
- Test results will be posted at the dojo and on the website one week after the test. This one week waiting period is important to teach the student that there is no instant gratification in the dojo. Karate is about training and the achievements that this training leads to.
- If you pass you have succeeded to meet the requirements of that kyu or rank. This is something you and fellow students and instructors can take pride in. But humility is always part of the process and it is just a step forward in the journey.
- If you pass to a semi rank you have not failed…it merely means you are not quite ready for a full kyu rank. You should plan to test at the next test (no 3 month minimum required) to try and complete a full kyu advancement. There is no additional testing fee if you test at the next test. However, if you wait longer than the next test there will be an additional testing fee.
- If you do not pass you also have not failed… it merely means you are not quite ready for a semi or full kyu rank. You should plan to test at the next test (no 3 month minimum required) to try and complete a semi or full kyu advancement. There is no additional testing fee if you test at the next test. However, if you wait longer than the next test there will be an additional testing fee.
- One of the instructors will provide verbal feedback on your test and call out things you did well, and what areas they need to work on.
- Once you pass to a higher rank you can wear a different color belt or you will have a new rank recognized within the same color. It will be noted in your dojo profile, in your SKIF passport and on the photo wall. Results will also be posted on our website.
My objective at Perk Performance is to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for all ranks of Karate-ka. I look forward to guiding you-- along with the other dedicated instructors-- on this fulfilling journey to train, learn, and ultimately teach Shotokan Karate.
My mission and the Dojo’s mission is to train, grow and teach following the principles of our leader Kancho Kanazawa. Through this journey we will strive to make the Dojo Kun the very essence of our character.
Oss!
Sensei Chris
Chief Instructor
Peak Performance Shotokan Karate Dojo
Testing requirments
All testing requirements are as prescribed by Shotokan Karate International Federation-USA as approved by Shotokan Karate International Federation
BELT COLORS:
10th Kyu – White belt
9th Kyu – Yellow belt (Youth students only)
8th and 7th Kyu – Orange belt
6th Kyu – Green belt
5th and 4th Kyu – Purple belt
3rd, 2nd and 1st Kyu – Brown belt
1st Dan to 7th Dan - Black belt
9th and 8th KYU EXAMINATION STANDARDS:
9th Kyu
Kihon requires the ability to perform and apply the most basic techniques. You should demonstrate good form in a strong, low front stance, with your head up, you body straight, and you shoulders down. Movements forward and back should be done with the correct in-and-out footwork. Punches should be performed with power, speed, and intent. Spirit, concentration and etiquette are also considered.
Kata requires concentration and correct movement.
Kumite requires commitment and timing.
8th Kyu
Kihon requires, in addition to the 9th kyu requirements, special attention to hip rotation on blocking actions, strong drawing arm, timing, and focus.
Kata should be smoother and more fluid than for 9th kyu.
Kumite should show improved body connection, speed, concentration, and focus, as well as correct target.
KIHON: (basics)
Zenkutsu Dachi Gedan Barai (downward block front stance)
Chudan or Jodan Jun Zuki (moving forward punching chudan/jodan as pre Sensei)
Chudan Gyaku Zuki (turn downward block; move forward reverse punch to chudan)
Jodan Age Uke (do not turn, from downward block, move backwards rising block)
Chudan Soto Ude Uke (moving forward outside block)
Mae Geri (turn downward block, hands at your sides, moving forward front kicks)
Mae Geri (turn downward block, hands at your sides, moving forward front kicks)
Kiba Dachi Gamae
Yoko Keage (turn Kiba Dachi towards testing table, moving sideways, side snaps)
Yoko Keage (turn Kiba Dachi, moving sideways, side snaps)
KATA:
Taikyoku Shodan (for 9th Kyu)
Heian Shodan (8th Kyu)
KUMITE: (partner work)
Gohon Kumite: Jodan and Chudan
7th and 6th KYU EXAMINATION STANDARDS:
7th Kyu
Kihon: At this level the student is introduced combinations of block and counter as well as two new kicks, roundhouse and side thrust. Student should be able to demonstrate an understanding of timing and focus on combinations; strong front stance with connection to the ground; good hip rotation; coils and recoils on kicks; and an ability to move in back stance and kiba dachi.
Kata: Student should show an understanding of how to create power for multiple techniques while remaining in the same position. Also, better understanding for back stance and knife hand block.
Kumite should be performed with strong forceful attacks with attention paid to target. Applications for defense should be strong and smooth with definite hip rotation, low stance, and commitment. Both 5 step and 3 step kumite are building blocks for strong body connection and mental readiness.
6th Kyu
Kihon: In addition to the above, techniques should be more fluid, with better timing. Kicks should have more coil and recoil. Student should show improved stamina throughout the exam. The examiner will be assessing breathing, target and ability to control mental state.
Kata: Student should demonstrate rooting of oneself to the ground by dropping the body weight and tightening the abs, also moving in kiba dachi.
Kumite: This is the same as for 7th kyu but is now performed from both left and right sides. Student should demonstrate a better understanding and improvement in body connection and mental readiness.
KIHON: (basics)
Zenkutsu Dachi Gedan Barai (downward block, front stance)
Jodan Jun Zuki (moving forward punching Jodan)
Chudan Gyaku Zuki (turn downward block, moving forward reverse punching Chudan)
Jodan Age Uki – Gyaku Zuki (moving backwards, rising block – reverse punch)
Chudan Soto Ude Uke – Gyaku Zuki (moving forwarded, outside block – reverse punch)
Chudan Uchi Ude Uke – Gyaku Zuki (turn downward block, moving forward inside block – reverse punch)
Kokutsu Dachi
Chudan Shuto Uke (moving backwards, knife hand block in back stance)
Zenkutsu Dachi
Mae Geri (turn front stance, moving forward front kicks)
Mawashi Geri (turn front stance, moving forward round house kicks)
Kiba Dachi
Yoko Keage (Kiba Dachi towards testing table, moving sideways, side snaps)
Yoko Keage (turn Kiba Dachi, moving sideways, side snaps)
Yoko Kekomi (turn Kiba Dachi, moving sideways, side thrust)
Yoko Kekomi (turn Kiba Dachi, moving sideways, side thrust)
KATA:
7th Kyu – Heian Nidan
6th Kyu – Heian Sandan
Sensei’s Choice: Sensei will choose a kata from a previous test which must be performed without error.
KUMITE: (partner work)
7th Kyu – Sanbon Kumite #1 and #2 (Left)
6th Kyu – Sanbon Kumite #1 and #2 (Left and Right)
5th and 4th KYU EXAMINATION STANDARDS 5th Kyu
Kihon: Combinations are increased to three techniques, which require an understanding of timing and rhythm as well as the ability to change stance and use hip rotation within the combination. Demonstrate improvement in speed, power, focus and breathing. Double kicks are introduced.
Kata: The opening moves should demonstrate how to build focus. Contrast between slow and fast moves and timing of multiple technique combinations should also be shown.
Kumite: Student uses moving or changing direction to escape or avoid an attack and correct distance in conjunction with blocking and counter attack. Calm but alert mind, timing and focus as well as breathing are assessed.
4th Kyu
Kihon: Same as 5th kyu but should demonstrate increased stamina, improved form and understanding with clarity of each technique. Kokutsu dachi and kiba dachi should be much improved and kicking techniques stronger.
Kata: Should demonstrate understanding of difference between light/quick techniques and strong/powerful techniques.
Kumite: Same as for 5th kyu with the addition of yoko kekomi and mawashi geri. Actions should be smoother with better timing, distance, focus and on target.
KIHON: (basics)
Zenkutsu Dachi Gedan Barai (downward block front stance)
Sanbon Zuki: Jodan – Chudan – Chudan (moving forward triple punch-head, stomach, stomach)
Sanbon Zuki (Gyaku Zuki) – Chudan – Jodan – Chudan (turn, reverse punch, moving moving forward triple punch-stomach, head, stomach)
Jodan Age Uke – Gyaku Zuki: (moving backwards, rising block, reverse block)
Chudan Soto Ude Uke (Zenkutsu Dachi) – Enpi Uchi – Uraken Uchi (Kiba Dachi) (moving forward, front stance, outside block; elbow strike in Kiba Dachi, back fist strike)
Chudan Uchi Ude Uke – Jodan Kizami Zuki – Chudan Gyaku Zuki (turn downward block, moving forward, inside block, jab, reverse punch) C
Chudan Shuto Uke (Kokutsu Dachi) and Nukite (Zenkutsu Dachi) (moving backwards, knife hand in back stance, spear hand in front stance)
Zenkutsu Dachi
Mae Geri – Ren Geri (from front stance, moving forward double front kicks)
Mawashi Geri – Ren Geri (turn, double round house kicks)
Kiba Dachi
Yoko Keage (turn Kiba Dachi towards testing table, side snaps)
Yoko Keage (turn Kiba Dachi, side snaps)
Yoko Kekomi (turn Kiba Dachi, side thrusts)
Yoko Kekomi (turn Kiba Dachi, side thrusts)
KATA:
5th Kyu – Heian Yondan
4th Kyu – Heian Godan
Sensei’s Choice: Sensei will choose a kata from a previous test which must be performed without error.
KUMITE: (partner work)
5th Kyu – Kihon Ippon Kumite: (basic one step Kumite) 2 Jodan – 2 Chudan – 2 Mae Geri (2 head, 2 stomach, 2 front kicks)
4th Kyu – Kihon Ippon Kumite: 2 Jodan – 2 Chudan – 1 Mae Geri – 1 Yoko Geri – 1 Mawashi Geri (2 head, 2 stomach, 1 front kick, 1 side thrust)
3rd KYU EXAMINATION STANDARDS
Kihon: This grading goes back to single basic techniques. These techniques must be performed with correct form, body connection, stance pressures, speed, power, timing and focus. Students should be able to demonstrate mature development and understanding of single basic actions. Also ushiro geri is introduced.
Kata: This is the first of three Tekki Katas that move laterally side to side as if you had your back to a wall. It is necessary to demonstrate a strong, low kiba dachi stance with good hip vibration and body connection.
Kumite: At this level the attacks and defenses are the same as the 4th kyu, but must be executed on both the left and right sides.
KIHON: (Basics)
Zenkutsu Dachi Gedan Barai
Chudan Jun Zuki
Chudan Gyaku Zuki
Jodan Age Uke
Chudan Soto Ude Uke
Chudan Uchi Ude Uke
Kokutsu Dachi
Chudan Shuto Uke
Zenjutsu Dachi
Mae Geri
Mawashi Geri
Kiba Dachi
Yoko Keage
Yoko Kekomi
Zenkutsu Dachi
Ushiro Geri
KATA:
Tekki Shodan
Sensei’s Choice: Sensei will choose a kata from a previous test which must be performed without error.
KUMITE:
Kihon Ippon Kumite
Hidari: 2 Jodan – 2 Chudan – 2 Mae Geri – 1 Yoko Kekomi – 1 Mawashi Geri
Migi: 2 Jodan – 2 Chudan – 2 Mae Geri – 1 Yoko Kekomi – 1 Mawashi Geri
2nd and 1st KYU EXAMINATION STANDARDS
2nd Kyu Kihon: In addition to standards set for 3rd kyu, this grade requires that you are able to demonstrate correct body dynamics with speed, power, and focus in combinations that incorporate the use of kicking and punching. Balance, breathing and stamina will also be assessed.
Kata: The student now begins to study the kate with strict attention to details.
Kumite: In this kumite one should be able to put together the teachings of the previous kumite and demonstrate their use in a practical way.
1st Kyu Kihon, Kata and Kumite: By now you should be able to demonstrate a full understanding of body dynamics used in the fundamental movements and be able to execute each technique with proper application.
KIHON:
Zenkutsu Dachi Gedan Barai
Chudan Jun Zuki
Chudan Gyaku Zuki
Jodan Age Uke
Chudan Soto Ude Uke
Chudan Uchi Ude Uke
Kokutsu Dachi
Chudan Shuto Uke
Zenkutsu Dachi
Ushiro Geri
From Zenkutsu Dachi Gedan Barai
1. Mae Geri – Jun Zuki
2. Mawashi Geri – Gyaku Zuki
3. Gyaku Zuki – Mae Geri – Jun Zuki – Gedan Barai
Kiba Dachi
Yoko Keage – Yoko Kekomi
Pencil Test (optional)
KATA:
Tekki Shodan
Sentei: Bassai Dai, Kanku Dai, J ion, Enpi
KUMITE:
Jiyu Ippon Kumite: 2 – Jodan, 2 – Chudan, 2 – Mai Geri, 1 – Yoko Kekomi, 1-1Mawashi Geri
DAN TESTING:
Please see Sensei for Dan test requirements.