Dojo Etiquette
How to behave in the Dojo...

This is a basic guide for those thinking of training in the art, and a reminder for beginners. The points are general ones and you should not worry about getting them correct first time. If in doubt ask!

IMPORTANT - The student must inform the Branch Master or Branch Captain of any relevant medical condition that may affect their training.

Since Shorinji Kempo originated in Japan, and is an international organisation, the basic techniques and terms are in Japanese.

When entering or leaving the dojo 'Gassho Rae' to 'Shomen'. That is, salute to the front of the Dojo (usually the scroll hanging on the wall. See the initial screen). Note that 'Gassho Rae' involves no bowing action. It is performed with hands in front of the face, head raised.

The teacher is to be referred to as 'Sensei' when in the dojo. Whether this title is to be used at all times, including external circumstances, depends upon the wishes of the teacher. The title of the Branch Captain is 'Shusho' and senior students are 'Sempai'. This is quite useful if you cannot remember their names!

Shoes should not be worn in the dojo. Normally there are two practices to avoid this. The first is to wear special slippers from the changing room to the dojo, and leave these outside. The more common practice is to wear normal shoes between changing rooms and dojo (where applicable). Each Dojo has it's own rules.

Before the class starts formally students should not stand around aimlessly talking. Warm up, or practice until the class starts. Do not sit on the floor unless asked to do so by a senior.

The student should make every effort to be on time. However, if one is late then the student should sit Zazen at the rear of the class and mentally prepare, until signalled to join the practice.

Before practice with a partner, and when finishing practice, each should Rae to the other. Between these salutes the practice is 'live' and one should be 'en garde'. The words spoken at the start of the practice (during Rae) are 'Onegai Shimasu' (context: please teach me), and at the close of practice 'Aregato Gosai Mashita' (thank you very much).

When not doing anything one should stand 'Kesshu Kamae', with hands together on the belt, feet together. This is our equivalent of standing to attention.

Wear clean, loose clothes to practice if a 'Do Gi' is not being worn (the white uniform). The latter will need to be purchased if Shorinji Kempo practice is to be undertaken seriously.

From a safety point of view finger and toenails should be short, and no jewellery worn during practice.

The attitude of the student should be respectful but neither subservient nor outwardly nervous. This is your Dojo; treat it as such.

Fees and Gradings:

Fees vary from one Branch to another. At Northampton they are currently £6 per month payable in advance on the first training session of the month.

A 4th kyu grading (the first grade after joining if you are an adult) can only be taken if you are a member of WSKO, you have a WSKO Kenshi Number, and you have had these for a minimum of three months. This is in addition to being of a suitable technical standard.