Dojo Rules

• Safety is always the first concern. There is to be no horse play or rough-housing. You are not to practice without trained supervision, and you will never attempt to cause harm to another member of the class. If you are ever unsure of how to perform a technique correctly, ask the instructor for help.
• Courtesy and respect are to be maintained at all times, both for the teacher and your fellow students.
  
• Address anyone teaching class, regardless of rank, by Mr., Ms., or Mrs. When asked a yes or no question, respond with "Yes, sir/ma'am" or "No sir/ma'am." You may address black belt teachers by the title Sensei if they wish, or you may use Mr., Ms., or Mrs. as appropriate.
  
• There is to be no swearing or foul language.
  
• There is to be no harassing or picking on others for any reason! In this environment, we are all equal, regardless of profession, race, gender, religion, income, or anything else. Everyone who wants to participate and follow the rules will be welcomed with open arms. Every student will be treated with respect by all teachers and his or her fellow students, no matter what.
  
• You are to arrive at class on time. Your time with the instructor is precious, and you should use it wisely.
  
• You are never to set your belt on the floor, use it as a toy or "whip," or do anything that shows a lack of respect. It is a representation of your own achievement; as such, to be disrespectful of your belt is to show disrespect to your rank and the teacher who awarded it. In the course of your training (doing push-ups, for example), your belt will touch the ground. This is fine. But your belt should never touch the ground unless it is part of the normal course of your training. You will also never wash your belt.
  
• You are to practice good personal hygiene when you are coming to class. Wash your uniform (but never your belt) before each class. You should keep your hair clean, and keep fingernails and toenails trimmed.
  
• If you are ever training with an injury, you MUST tell the instructor so that appropriate adjustments to training can be made. Otherwise, you risk worsening the injury.
  
• No jewelry is to be worn in class. This includes, but is not limited to, rings (including wedding rings), toe rings, bracelets, anklets, necklaces, watches, earrings, any other type of jewelry for a piercing (including belly button rings and other piercings that are not readily visible under the uniform). This is for YOUR SAFETY and the safety of those around you. Piercings, in particular, can result in nasty injuries if accidentally kicked, punched, pulled, etc. You may, however, wear glasses if you require them.
  
• You are not to wear your belt outside the classroom unless you have a good reason (such as practicing, performing in a demonstration, et cetera).