Dojo Kun

The Dojo Kun is normally recited as a whole class, either at the beginning or end of training.

The Dojo Kun will be chanted out by Senpai (The Senior) and everyone will repeat the line again with a strong loud voice.

Make sure you understand the lines in Japanese and English. The Dojo Kun should never be mumbled under the breath in insincerity.

Be confident, be proud!

Why do we recite something that’s so old and traditional?

The Dojo Kun (Rules of the Training Hall) is what we are all trying to achieve, through the physical and mental efforts of karate training. One must try to incorporate these rules into there training in the hall and out in there social lives.

Karate is not just training in the hall.

There are three official bows (Rei) in the kneeling position. (Seiza)

To get from the standing position to the kneeling, one must bend both knees into the squatting position.

Follow by placing the left knee to the floor, followed by the right knee.

Once in this position you must sit with your back upright, seated on your heels with your instep of your feet on the floor.

Always follow your Sensei (teacher) and never race ahead. This is not an exercise to be rushed through.

1.The first bow (Rei) is when all the class including Sensei face forward. The words Shomone Rei will be called by the Senpai (Senior) everyone will follow Sensei to bow to the floor. Left hand first then right hand then the forehead to floor.

  To return to the upright position, reverse the order. This bow will last approx 5 secs.

2.The second bow is with Sensei facing the class. Sensei Ni Rei will be called out by the Senpai. The same procedure to bow as before but will last for 3 secs.

3.The third bow is called by Sensei to the class. This is just called Rei. Appox 1 sec long.

Sensei will then return to the standing position in the reverse order in which they went down. The class should follow suit, but never rush ahead.

Hitotsu! Jinkaku Kansei Ni Tsutomuru Koto!

One! To Strive for the Perfection of Character!

Hitotsu! Makoto No Michi O Mamoru Koto!

One! To Defend the Paths of Truth!

Hitotsu! Doryoku No Seishin O Yashinau Koto!

One! To Foster the Spirit of Effort!

Hitotsu! Reigi O Omonzuru Koto!

One! To Honour the Principles of Ettiquette!

Hitotsu! Kekki No Yu O Imashimiru Koto!

One! To Guard Against Impetuous Courage!