Class Etiquette

This class etiquette applies to all Tae Kwon Do functions (test, tournament, etc.).

1. Tae Kwon Do is used for self-defense ONLY! Not to be used irresponsibly.

2. Students are to remove their shoes before and/or upon entering the dojang. Shoes should be placed on racks (if provided) and should not be worn in training areas nor in changing rooms.

3. Bow first to the flags, then to all black belt instructors in rank order upon entering and leaving the dojang.

4. Inform the black belt instructors if you are injured or ill before or during class.

5. If you are unable to attend class due to any reason, it is your responsibility to be courteous and call your instructor and let them know. Otherwise, it is considered a non-excused absence.

6. Drugs, alcohol, tobacco, gum, foul language, and any form of recreational drugs, or disruptive behavior by students or visitors are not allowed or tolerated in the gym.

7. Students' uniforms, equipment and person shall be well kept and clean, nails trimmed, etc. Come to practice with a clean mind and body.

8. Please remove watches, rings, neck chains, earrings, or any type of jewelry that could cause harm during training.

9. A proper (good/positive) attitude is expected from all students at all times, no other attitude or behavior will be tolerated.

10. Utmost respect will be shown to Master Instructors, Black Belt Instructors, and other Black Belts and Seniors, no other behavior will be tolerated.

11. Students will address the Masters, Black Belts and Seniors as "Sir" or "Ma'am" at the end of conversations, in and out of the gym. Master instructors will be referred to as "Sabunim", Black Belts will be referred to as "Mr., Miss, Ms., or Mrs. (last name)", and all colored belts will be referred to as "Mr., Miss, or Mrs. (first name)".

12. Uniforms are to be worn for Tae Kwon Do functions only!

13. Students are expected to be loyal and never criticize the instructors, Tae Kwon Do, or any of it's functions, unless asked for constructive criticism, all other destructive criticism is considered disrespectful and will not be tolerated.

14. The student is expected to adopt a learning attitude and try to learn something from every situation and experience, whether good or bad, this is the key to knowledge.

15. Behavior outside of the dojang is expected to be of Tae Kwon Do nature, realizing that the student is an example of their instructor, dojang, and martial art.

16. Lesson fees are to be paid before the start of a new session. Unless arrangements have been made with the instructor!!!

17. Safety is a very important must while training, competing, or whatever the function, and must be applied at all times.

18. Students are to maintain their focus on their own training and not become concerned with what everyone else is doing.

19. Students and parents should maintain open communications with the instructors, let them know how they are getting along, and especially if there is a problem. We are here to help and will make great efforts to assist if and when possible.

20. Please be on time for class!

21. The colored belts are a sign of achievement and respect. Your belt should never be discarded nor should it ever touch the ground.

22. As in any educational system the instructor teaches the required material, and the student is expected to learn, practice, remember, and utilize this material. The INSTRUCTOR then knows and decides when the student is ready for their next exam.

23. No sparring should be done without the instructor's or an adult black belt's approval/supervision.

24. Students that come in early for class, should stretch out quietly, practice quietly, or go over notes quietly, and not disturb the class that is already in progress.

25. Always reply loud and loud ki-haps. This is how Confidence is shown.

26. A student should not stand with their hands on their hips or arms crossed in front of their chest, this is a sign of disrespect and/or improper attitude.

27. Students should always (each class) ask permission to use any equipment that does not belong to them, before using it.

28. Try to refrain from idle conversation while practicing. You should come to the dojang to practice, not to talk to your friends. A dojang is a place for serious study, not a social gathering.

29. No student is allowed to teach techniques or do a demonstration unless given approval in each case/class by the instructor.

NOTE: The most important reason for Tae Kwon Do Dojang etiquette is that it not only provides everyone with a fun experience, but also a safe place to practice.