Dojo Etiquette
Martial Arts Training means training of mind, body and spirit, and, above all else, one should treat his partner with upmost courteously, respect and with the proper etiquette, practice this by treating all people this way, starting with family. Martial arts are a discipline, a lifestyle not a hobby, sport or part-time thing.
Kyoshi Riedmiller
 
A real Dojo is a sanctuary, a place of respect, discipline, structure, precision, safety and self-control. Many of the “rules” of the dojo are learned simply by training and paying attention to the behavior of the senior students, “The ones that came before” everyone starts at the bottom and works their way up. Even the highest-ranking black belts in the world, are just white belts that never quit.
Underlying all of these are the ideas of respect, discipline, self- control and safety, which are all at the heart of Karate, Jiujitsu, Kendo, and Kobudo. Therefore, remember that dojo etiquette has meaning, All of It, it’s part of a culture and the following of etiquette helps us build that culture of respect and build positive personal habits and behaviors that help us improve ourselves inside and outside of the dojo. The following are important rules of etiquette all students and guest need to follow. If you have a question about etiquette, ask an instructor or senior student.
These are the Dojo Rules of the Summit Martial Arts Dojo. They are designed to help students know what to do and not do in the dojo. The dojo is much more than a "training hall." It is the place where the mind, body, spirit, are forged through rigorous physical conditioning, self-discipline and introspection (looking within), deep focus, your state of mind and attitude. The dojo has its own culture and it takes time to learn the proper procedures and rules. Karate & Jiujitsu go back many thousands of years and have been influenced by Okinawan, Japanese and Chinese cultures. Many rules, particularly those of etiquette, are unspoken. By this compilation, we are trying to make these rules more easily understood, and why they are so important . You should ask the Sensei or a senior if you have any questions after reading.
Some of these rules are also based on insurance and safety requirements.
If the Delaware County Sheriff's Office declares a Level 1 emergency, Summit Martial Arts will be closed. http://www.delawarecountysheriff.com/

If you are not 100% healthy, feel sick or have any symptoms; DO NOT ENTER DOJO
 
Arriving, waiting for your Class, and Leaving

1. Make a sincere effort to arrive on time or early to class. Students are expected to join the class on time. This is a traditional dojo advocating traditional values, customs and respect. "Karate & Jiujitsu begins and ends with courtesy and respect." Always act as a gentleman or a Lady in the Dojo.
2. Bow when entering or leaving the dojo. Direct your bow to the senior person present and acknowledge his or her presence with the greeting “Osu” (pronounced “oos”). Even if they don’t see you.
3. Treat everyone with proper manners and respect, this is a professional environment.
4. Do not enter Dojo training area while another class is in session, wait for your class. Do not disrupt a class.
5. Children, teens, or adults are not allowed in training area unless they are in their personal class.
6. Everyone must sign a waiver to participate in any program first thing before entering and check in if a current student.
7. Silence all electronics in class room area. For emergency personnel folks, please just let instructor know if you need your phone on for possible emergency calls.
8. No animals are allowed in dojo other than Law Enforcement K9 dog or Guide dogs.
9. Please no using cell phones, texting, or filming etc. in main dojo area, please go to hallway.
10. Filming and pictures are not permitted in dojo without permission. And never film others without their permission, especially instructors. This includes seminars.
11. Do not interrupt Head instructor before during or after class, during class times, class is the total focus. Please call during the day, email or text to make appointment if a face to face is required. Sensei does not want to think about anything other than class.
12. Remove your shoes and place them neatly in a row on shoe racks or on the floor under chair.
13. Do not walk on the dojo floor with shoes on.
14. All students must Rei (bow) toward Shinza upon entering dojo and each time they enter or leave.
15. When you  enter the dojo always bow to your instructors/Sensei address your Instructor as Sempi, Sensei, Renshi, Kyoshi, Shihan, Professor, Hanshi as applicable with their last name. Instructors that are 3th dan or higher will be referred to as sensei and assistant instructors that are 1st through 2nd dan will be referred to as sempai. Always politely greet “good evening or good morning” and “Please and thank you” to all Instructors, not to do so is extremely rude in Japanese and Brazilian cultures. The dojo is a major part of instructor’s life, so not to greet and be polite would be like going to their home and not greeting them. However you are not their pal or buddy, they are instructors. Its easy to find friends, its very hard to find world class instructors.
16. Check your attitude when you walk through the door. This is not the place for bad attitudes or bad intentions. No politics, religion, divorce, etc. NO DRAMA this is a dojo it’s about health and the training.
17. This is not a pick up or dating place, in the dojo always stay focused on the art. 
18. Do not try to curry favor with instructors by acting in an obsequious way (teacher's pet), just work hard, be respectful and follow rules.
19. Basic Japanese terminology will be used throughout. You will get a list of terminology.
20. Wash hands before and after class.
21. All members must check in as entering.
22. Walk ins need to schedule an appointment to view class or speak to Instructors, they can go to website or call during the day. Everyone must be in uniform in class.
23. Talk low in Bathrooms and hallway. Sound travels easily and may interrupt class in session.
24. Do not walk around shirtless or in undergarments.
25. If you are late, wait at edge of class until instructor invites you to enter, let the instructor know why. If possible, inform the instructor ahead of time.
26. If another class is in progress when you arrive, keep any distractions to a minimum and do not enter. Try to keep a quiet and peaceful training environment.
27. If you arrive to class late, remain seated in standing or seiza position until the instructor acknowledges you
28. Once acknowledged, perform bow, then walk behind other students and find an appropriate spot. Do not walk in front of class or between two people training.
29. If you missed the warm-up/stretching portion of class, take at least 5 minutes to warm-up before joining the class to warm up from head to toe. It is required for everyone to prevent injury.
30. Bow when entering and leaving the training floor. 
31. Do not leave class without permission (even for water). Its about respect and the instructors are responsible for your safety.
32. If you feel ill, have an injury, or need to leave class for some reason, raise your hand and inform the instructor. 
33. Inform the instructor if you need to leave class early at the beginning of class.
34. No horseplay or play fighting anywhere in the dojo (Horseplay is how people typically get injured.)
35. Always remain aware of fire safety and security. Be conscious of who enters and leaves the dojo and for what purpose. Make it a point to meet anyone you don’t recognize. There are two fire exists at dojo front and rear.
36. There is parking in front of Dojo and at the South in of the building, there are other businesses and a Church so please be respectful. There is no littering or cussing on grounds.
37. No watches or similar devices, earrings, jewelry, etc. will be worn during practice.
38. Flat wedding bands are ok.
39. Trim fingernails and toenails short to avoid injury to yourself or other students during training. Hair is pulled back and out of the way.
40. There may be basic equipment you will need in some classes in addition to your uniform as you progress, it is required so you don’t have to borrow and practice at home is needed to become proficient.
41. Children must stay inside if waiting for parents to pick them up.
42. Please lock any self defense items like; firearms, knifes, pepper spray in car or with Kyoshi Riedmiller, do not leave unattended and unsecured.

 
Parents and Visitors

1. Visitors are always welcome, as long as they abide by dojo rules. You are responsible for your guest. There is no babysitting or supervision provided for children, children must be under control at all times and may not run wild or near training area. No one is permitted in a class that is not a member of that class. All electronic devices must be silent, no filming or pictures. No disrupting class or interacting with students in class. If you or your guest make a mess clean it up.
2. Think library or college classroom atmosphere in the dojo. The dojo is not a play ground.
3. Parents and visitors are welcome to watch class in the seating area. We consider parents as coaches for your students success.
4. Please do not talk to your child when they are class. It is distracting to those training in the class. If there is any issue you feel needs to be addressed, please discuss with the instructor before arriving or schedule appointment.
5. No Food is allowed in Dojo, non-staining, non-sugary drinks may be kept with your gear. Many drinks are unhealthy to the point of dangerous when combined with exercise and make it very hard to focus. No drinks in training area or on mat.
6. Silence all electronic devices and phones.
7. Small children need to be supervised and under control, never on the mats. This is also an insurance requirement.
8. Anyone that disrupts class will be asked to go to hallway. If that fails, then you will be asked to leave building.
9. No Shoes, food, gum, candy, or drink on mats. Drinks may be kept by your gear.
10. No smoking in Dojo or around dojo (parking lot etc.) Do not drop butts or gum in parking lot.
11. If you or your children are sick, please stay home and rest. Do not come in or train until your healthy.
12. Try not to bring valuables to dojo or self-defense items (gun, knife, firearms) if you do please store in your trunk or ask Sensei to store in his office (LEO).  Store your gear under a chair neatly, do not leave things out that could create a tripping hazard, gets in the way or junks up the Dojo.

 
Uniforms and Belts

1. Uniforms should be clean, wrinkle free and neat, and in top condition for each class.
2. White, traditional style uniforms are required. No other color, no mixing colors.
3. No additional patches other than Organizational patch (or approved patch) and proper style name (Kanji)
4. Uniforms should be hemmed or folded to about a 3⁄4 sleeve and pants at ankle level.
5. Any rips or holes in uniforms should be repaired or replace uniform.
6. Any shirts worn under uniforms should be plain white or black.
7. If you need to fix or adjust your uniform or belt, turn around first, then quickly turn back. Do not disturb class in anyway
8. Never throw or drop your obi (belt), and never wash it. Your obi is a symbol of your spirit and hardwork.
9. Do not hang you belt around your neck or walk around the dojo half-dressed. Belt around neck is only ok when getting a new belt.
10. Try to fold your gi neatly. Sensei or Sempai can show you how to fold properly.
11. Except for training events outside the dojo and personal practice, belts should not be worn outside the dojo. Gis without belts may be worn to and from class, but never to show off.
12. Students who forget their uniform or belt for class should not expect to be provided a loaner. A white belt may be provided, depending on availability.
13. It is mandatory to wear rash guard or under garment in Jiujitsu under uniform, woman also should wear sport bra
14. Never wash your belt. This is a time-honored tradition in Karate & Jujitsu
15. All Jujitsu and Karate Gi’s must be White only, both pants and jacket. No other color is allowed, no other color lapels or trim is allowed. Advance students and leaders must have proper patches and or kanji. Uniform should be free of wrinkles and stains. There can be no rips or tears in uniform.
16. Only the approved organizational patches and kanji worn correctly are allowed on uniforms. If it has a manufactures logo it must be very small and not in a prominent place on uniform.
17. No other patches from other schools is allowed, other than seminars were other schools have been invited.
18. Never let your belt touch the floor
19. Bag gloves or hand wraps should be used when using heavy bags  and equipment

 
Cleanliness and Hygiene

1. Practice good personal hygiene.
2. Keep your hands and feet clean. Wash hands before and after class. Keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed without sharp edges. Band-aids and other first-aid supplies are available. If you have a cut, it must been covered.
3. Long hair should be tied back.
4. Jewelry should not be worn in class.
5. Avoid using strong scents, perfumes, or colognes.
6. Take responsibility for the cleanliness of the dojo. Properly throw away your garbage. Arrange training equipment neatly. If you get it out or use, please put away. If you mess it up, clean it up.
7. Arrange your shoes, coats, and bags neatly. Put on rank or under chair neatly.
8. If you see a situation that needs to be addressed, please attend to it. Use cleaning supplies if needed.

 
 Warm-up

1. Avoid talking during warm-up. Get your mind prepared for training.
2. During warm-up, follow the person leading mirror image. Stretch in the same direction as the leader, mirroring their movements.
3. Everyone must warm up before doing class

 
 
Behavior During Class

1. Maintain a good attitude appropriate for serious practice.
2. Pay attention. Learning how to maintain focus is part of your training.
3. When Sensei is teaching a class show utmost respect by not talking or moving around when he is demonstrating or explaining something. Circle around and watch with good posture or take a knee, listen, and communicate with respectful language. Never interrupt
4. When Sensei or yudansha are explaining something to you personally or correcting your form you should bow before and after the discussion and thank them or Oss.
5. Don’t yawn, roll your eyes, or groan in class. Don’t ask off topic questions or blurt out comments or off topic questions.
6. If Sensei leaves someone in charge of class or Dojo, they are responsible for dojo rules and regulations.
7. Only authorized leaders may teach technics, you can be helpful but do not teach unless you are in a teaching role.
8. Treat your sempai with respect and support their efforts to help the Sensei. Each of them has gained unique knowledge based on their individual differences. Learn as much as you can from them because they have already been where you are headed. 
9. Treat your kohai with encouragement and support because they are under your care. They depend on you to teach them and they look up to you, sometimes blindly.  Be worthy of the respect they give you and do everything in your power to help them with their training; above all, never be overbearing or condescending. Finally, be wary of their praise so that you can remember your place and cultivate humility.
10. When you’re the sempai working with kohai, treat them as you would like to be treated. This benefits you as sempai greatly; first learn, then practice, then explain & understand, then teach, it really locks skills very deeply into you. It benefits you more than kohai or the dojo.
11. Stand in a neutral position. Do not cross your arms.
12. Don’t lean against the walls when standing by the edge of the dojo floor.
13. If you are instructed to move more than two steps away, move quickly to your spot.
14. Do not walk in front or between other students or the instructor.
15. When asked, give criticism respectfully. Take criticism gracefully.
16. Generally, students should not offer unsolicited feedback to senior students.
17. There should not be any talking while practicing drills with your partner or group. Too much talking can be a distraction to the other students.
18. Don’t talk back or give excuses to instructor comments.
19. Disrespectful behavior or conversation will not be tolerated in the dojo.
20. Do not do a different art in a class, (ex. Karate in a Jiujitsu class)
21. Do not add anything to instructors’ comments or ask what going to happen, he/she does not need your help or comments in this regard.
22. Never touch the Shinza or Kamiza
23. If a student arrives late for training/class and the class is already in progress wait for Sensei to recognize you then bow to him and enter the training area quickly. Do Not disturb the class in anyway
24. Arriving late should be very rare, it is also disrespectful. If you don’t have a good reason to be late, do not come at all. If you know you will not be time, you should discuss and get approved by head instructor.
25. Everyone must warm up thoroughly head to toe, before doing any form of training. If some one shows up late they may not enter class until warming up thoroughly head to toe.
26. There will be no chewing gum, eating or drinking on training floor.
27. Profane or foul language is not permitted in dojo, grounds or in parking lot, kids belong to this dojo and shouldn’t hear profanity.
28. When sitting in on dojo floor always sit anza (crossed legged)  or seiza (legs stacked) and never show the bottoms of your feet. This is not only considered sloppy and undisciplined, but also very insulting.
29. No loud talking or horseplay is allowed in the dojo. This is a place where respect and self-control are always observed. This is the proper decorum expected of you while in training area. It is also unsafe and dangerous.
30. Everyone in class will be in proper uniform including belt.
31. Uniform and Belt must be worn at all times in dojo training area.
32. Students will be in full and proper uniform (gi) upon entering the dojo and ready to practice. The Gi and all equipment will be kept clean and at home with the rest of equipment. Uniforms must be washed after each use. Dirty uniforms carry bacteria and is a sign of disrespect. There is no changing outside of changing rooms.
33. When the Sensei or in his absence the senior Yudansha (black Belt) enters the training area, the senior Yudansha member or in his or her absence the senior Mudansha member will call the class to attention (kyoski) and direct them to bow (Rei). When a higher-ranking black belt enters or leaves the dojo, the class will be called to attention (kyoski) and bows will be exchanged. If the class is in the middle of an exercise, the instructor may at his discretion, have the class continue to perform the exercise while he bows.
34. Do not enter or leave the floor during training/class without permission from Sensei or one of the Yudansha.
35. Bow on and off training area
36. Students line up in rank or descending order
37. Bow to partner before and after each practice.
38. When instructor is demonstrating the techniques, every student must sit or stand in a good posture.
39. If your belt comes undone and you must retie it or you must adjust your uniform never face Sensei or Yudansha or any higher-ranking belt instead turn around and face in the opposite direction to retie your belt or adjust your uniform.
40. Beginning students are NOT allowed to Free spar, Free Roll, or do throws, until they have a minimum of 50 hours in that art and are approved by head instructor to participate in each activity. They may only do very light body conditioning, joint locks, high kicks, real weapons etc. they must develop proper skills and control first.
41. Sparring (kumite), Rolling (Ne waza), Throwing (Randori) will not be done without black belt (who is a trained Summit leader) supervision to insure safety.
42. Bring any problems that could interfere with your learning and progress to the attention of head instructor.
43. If you are injured in any way during class, notify the head instructor.
44. Report any inappropriate, unclean, or unsafe students to the instructor. If someone is not being a good training partner notify instructor.
45. Do not touch weapons without permission of Yudansha.
46. Do not touch anyone else’s weapons without permission.
47. Do not use unauthorized or damaged weapons.
48. Talking should be kept to a minimum level and should be related to class subject. Do not talk during class, strive to maintain a cordial, yet serious atmosphere in the dojo.
49. Do all the exercises to the best of your ability. Students are expected to train hard, be disciplined and cultivate a strong and indomitable spirit.
50. Students are required to come to their classes consistently, and if you will not be attending a class to notify the instructor prior to the class. If you miss class, make it up as soon as possible.  We are here to help students be successful, progressive, and on track. Failure to meet minimum attendance requirements, and not doing makeup classes, not excepting help will result in membership probation, if not corrected membership will be terminated. 

  
Hierarchy

1. As a student, you occupy a certain place in the dojo hierarchy. At the top of this structure, of course, is the Head of Organization, then Head Sensei of Dojo. Beneath him are Sensei, Sempai, then students of various levels. You should also know the history and the Instructors that started it and past it down.
2. Those student’s senior to you are your sempai.
3. Those beneath you are your kohai. The sempai-kohai system is pervasive in Okinawa, Japanese culture. However, Youth Rank is different than Adult rank, adults are not to be directed in anyway by youth regardless of rank.
4. A Responsible Adult is always in charge over the highest-ranking youth. No one under 18 may ever be in charge of class or dojo regardless of rank. It is not intended to make you feel inferior; rather is designed to make each student aware of his or her role, so that role can be fulfilled properly. A trained instructor regarding leadership supersedes a higher rank that is not a leader or instructor.

 
Kohai and Sempai

1. Junior students (kohai) are expected to look to seniors (sempai) for guidance, imitate their behavior, and treat them with respect. Sempai are expected to set examples of respect, discipline, character and control.
2. Always address senior instructors as “Sensei” along with their last name.
3. Address your senior leaders (black belts) as “Sempai.”
4. Work with others to maintain a trusting, respectful, and peaceful atmosphere in the dojo.
5. Acknowledge others when you first see them with a bow.
6. Know the Founder, Head of Organization, Head of Dojo, Instructors
7. Everyone is part of the dojo family, please take the time to introduce yourself to anyone you don’t know. However, don’t assume they are your new best friend, keep it professional.

 
 
Osoji Big Cleaning & Soji Small Cleaning
1.    This is a traditional and professional dojo and will always be kept clean. Within the realm of that traditional culture it is every members responsibility to keep the dojo clean before and after class. The Sensei should not come onto the floor and see any dust, debris, equipment, etc. or must ask someone to clean it up. It is the dai sempai’s or senior student’s responsibility that this is taken care of before class begins and when class ends. Ritual cleaning of the floor and dojo called soji (cleaning time) is not only to clean the floor but to take ownership level of responsibility for dojo, have pride in dojo, self-discipline, respect, and teach humility. Always leave things better because you were there. As a member of the dojo, we are expected to help clean and maintain the facility. This is not an attempt by our instructor to take advantage of our labor. It is a purely practical need and a part of our training. We get involved with the dojo by putting our hands and hard work into every inch of it. This helps us truly feel a part of it. It is nice to talk about high concepts like "victory over the self", but if the mats are always dirty, it is clear that our words are empty.
2.    Each Rank, class, or individual is assigned to a specific cleaning task each day
 
3.    Yudansha should also organize bi-annually Osoji (big cleaning)
 
4.    All training equipment should be put away neatly in its proper spot, after whoever uses it. This will keep your dojo looking organized at all times. If you drop it pick it up, mess it up clean it up, pick up after yourself.
 
5.    Anticipate a need. Remember the expression "if I have to ask, I won't ask." And Head Sensei’s have been around a long time, they know every inch of the dojo, they know who helps keep it clean and who messes it up. If you bring stuff in, take it home.
 
6.    Help keep bathrooms and changing area clean and stocked at all times. Please report any problems.
 
7.   Again anticipate a need. Remember the expression "if I have to ask, I won't ask."
 
 
Being a Good Training Partner

1. You are always responsible for your partner’s safety, and they are responsible for yours.
2. Monitor your own temper and stress level. One purpose of training is to learn how to manage one’s temper and handle stressful situations.
3. Observe your partner for stress level. Try to diffuse it.
4. When changing partners during class, you should acknowledge both the partner you are leaving as well as your new partner with a bow.
5. A handshake and/or “thank you” is appropriate when leaving a partner.
6. Part of your training (appropriate to age and level) is learning how to receive contact and to react to surprising and stressful conditions. If you are uncomfortable with the contact from your partner, you should let them know and ask them to change their level of contact.
7. If your partner is not comfortable with your level of contact, respect their request.
8. If you get hit hard or unexpectedly, work on controlling your reaction. Breathe deeply. Avoid displays of anger.
9. Sempai have a higher level of responsibility for the safety of partners and the safety of others in the class. Do not hesitate to intervene in a situation if needed.
10. A Sensei or Sempai must! And will always be present to supervise Sparring, Rolling, Randori
11. Practicing with Others - Safety first!
12. The practice of Karate, Kobudo, Judo, Jiujitsu necessarily involves others. While there are many exercises and techniques that you can perform alone, the core of your training will involve practicing defenses against actual attacks from other students.
13. You must never forget that Budo can seriously injure or even kill another person if applied incorrectly during practice sessions. Therefore, it is your responsibility to practice correctly and safely. That means you must never practice a technique your instructor hasn't taught you directly. It also means practicing new techniques slowly, in a cooperative manner with your partner. Be aware that different people have different body types, styles of movement and capabilities.  For example, don't apply a joint technique to a small person the same way you would apply it to a large person or you may cause needless injury. Be sensitive to others and use only the amount of force necessary to practice a technique correctly and safely. You will be grateful when your sempai gives you the same consideration and respect, allowing both of you to increase your power and skill safely.
14. Always strive to work with your partner so you can both accomplish the technique you are practicing successfully. Do not resist your partner until you become used to practicing. Above all, practice safely. Understand your partners limits before using any technique on him or her, start slow and increase speed, power, complexity as you both improve.
15. Do not put your partner in an unsafe position or situation.
16. Etiquette towards other Students - Safety first!
17. Treat others as you would like to be treated.
18. Help beginners become familiar with the dojo.
19. Introduce yourself to new students or to those you have not met.
20. Be quick to aid your fellow students in any way during training.
21. Consider it an honor to train with your fellow students and to take ukemi for them.
22. Take it upon yourself to get to know each student and to offer encouragement when needed.
23. Be aware of your partner's capabilities and limitations, as well as your own, while practicing.
24. Always strive to work with your partner so you can both accomplish the technique you are practicing successfully.
25. Do not resist your partner until you become used to practicing.
26. Above all, practice safely. Understand your partner's limits before throwing him or her. Do not put our partner in an unsafe position or situation.
27. Non-instructors will not show or teach moves outside of what is being taught in class. Follow the process, learn the process, no one cares about some ridiculous YouTube/crazy move.
28. Being a poor training partner will not be tolerated you will be given 1 warning then suspended. Unsafe or inappropriate behavior will result in immediate loss of membership. Illegal behavior will result in immediate loss membership and authorities will be notified.
29. Always respect, encourage, and educate your training partner. Don’t try to impress, overshow, or teach other things.
30. Select training partners that make you feel safe and comfortable with your training.
31. Tap early, tap often, and make your partner’s safety a top priority, same idea with sparring and randori.

 
 
Outside of Class
1.    Fighting outside of the dojo is prohibited by code of honor, unless it is in a self-defense situation. Anyone who engages in this sort of misconduct or anyone who misuses their knowledge, who shows a lack of self-control, who shows a lack of respect towards the instructors, their fellow students, the organizations, the Dojo, other instructors arts and schools, or martial arts in general. You may also be terminated from Summit Martial Arts and the organizations it belongs too.
 
2.    Do not tell everyone about the fact that you are trained in Karate/Jiujitsu, unless its someone you know and trust. Don’t brag, or show off, it is foolish and invites conflict.
 
Practice

1. Make a sincere effort to commit to training on a regular basis.
2. Warm up your body daily.
3. Practice your basic techniques and kata outside of class.
4. If you have to stop training for period of time (usually months), your rank will be accessed when you return. Getting back up to your ranks standard should be 1st goal.
5. If you ever visit another dojo, call and ask permission to train first. If you need a letter of introduction see Kyoshi Riedmiller.
6. Use PedroSauer.com and/or yamazato-videos.com to review and prepare for future classes and seminars, keep a notebook

 
About health and hygiene:
1.    Real food and water are best.
2.    Lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables
3.    Do not consume intoxicants before training of any kind. 
4.    All cuts or open skin  (blisters, rashes, etc..) must be covered, If you have any kind of skin infections ( staph, ringworm, athletes’ foot, etc.) you are not allowed         to train until it is cleared up. These bacterial & fungal infections are highly contagious and can quickly spread throughout the entire class. 
5.    Report all injuries, abrasions, or skin infections to the instructor.
6.    When nursing injuries, train less, watch more, but come to class.
7.    Use footwear if going outside or to the restroom.
8.    Wash hands after using bathroom.
9.    Do Not spit or rinse mouth or hands in drinking fountain.
10.  All students and instructors must wear shoes or flip flops when walking outside or to the restroom.
11.   Students must practice good hygiene and wear a clean uniform to each class.
12.  If you are sick, stay home.
 
Tuition & Fees
1.    It is wrong for us to think of the dojo as some sort of health club or gym where we pay entry or for instruction and expect to get as much we you can as fast as you can. You are contributing to something bigger than yourself, something that your truly part of. The knowledge we receive, which our Sensei have learned through great effort and exertion over many years, is beyond any price. It would be a mistake to think he works for you, he does not.
 
2.    Our dojo fees simply insure that the facility itself can continue to be financially viable, and the instructors can be available as much as possible, there are lights, water, A/C, heat, mats, parking, insurance, equipment, etc.  
 
3.    Everyone involved with Dojo must contribute in some way, Tuition dues must be set up on automatic payments and on time without being asked for, our instructors are not bill collectors and will not be put into the uncomfortable position of having to ask members for money. We do not hesitate to pay a doctor or other professional who provides services to us, so we treat our Sensei with the same consideration. Not to contribute, or Late or negligent payment is a sign of disrespect not only to our teacher, but also to the dojo and our fellow students.
 
4.    If you are a serious student and have a real financial challenge please make an appointment and talk with head instructor right away, he will try to help.
 
5.    Not coming to class is not a reason to not pay your dues, a note from doctor saying you are not allowed to train and for set period of time, is required. 
 
Dojo Rank & International Rank and Membership
1.    Dojo Rank is earned at novice to intermediate levels. There is no charge for testing or rank at this level. This is also a time when the Sensei & Sempai work to get student on track before student gets to higher tougher more detailed International level.
 
2.    At intermediate and advance levels members will be required to be a member of the organization associated their art is part of Aka. ISKKF, Pedro Sauer organization, etc.
 
3.    At International levels students are expected to train hard and reach these tough standards, this is where world class Sensei & Sempai are so important
 
4.    At promotion test time, you will be going through clinics to get you ready, pre-tested,  and then contacted by instructor regarding things you need to develop and practice and when they believe you’re ready for testing, when your testing will be. If you are not contacted regarding testing, then Instructors do not feel you are ready for advancement at that time.
 
5.    Students are required to come to their class consistently, and if you will not be attending a class to notify the instructor prior to the class. If you miss a class, make it up as soon as possible.  We are here to help students be successful, progressive, and on track. Failure to meet minimum attendance requirements, not doing makeup classes or excepting help will prevents testing and progress. It may also result in membership probation, and if not corrected membership will be terminated. We do not support setting students up for failure. If you have a period with restrictions in your life that make it difficult to be consistent, please talk to Head Sensei to develop a plan to help with your success. Don’t leave to hit and miss, it just doesn’t work.
 
6.    Chase the knowledge, not the belt. Know your requirements. Good habits lead to progress.
 
7.    Strive to promote the true spirit of the martial arts by following the dojo kun and Jiujitsu code of honor
 
8.    Dojo Kun: Character-Sincerity-Effort-Etiquette-Self Control  These take precedence over technique.