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Etiquette within class  

Something which is sadly lacking in modern society is essential within the Dojang or Training Hall. All students are expected to show respect not only to the Instructors but also each other. The basic courtesy of bowing is the most fundamental sign of respect. If you wish to ask a question whilst class is in session put your hand up and wait to be noticed by the instructor. Be patient when you have asked a question. It may be that the Instructor is trying to resolve another issue before responding to your question. Disrespect, distracting and inappropriate behaviour have no place in a martial arts school, especially (though not limited to) while a class is in session. Because of the number of students involved in the school, the chances are good that another class will precede or directly follow yours. Show them the courtesy of allowing them to train with as few distractions as possible. If you need to hold loud animated discussions or wish to play then do so outside the training room. If you are going to be absent from training let your instructor know.

Senior grades (especially Dan grades) are expected as part of their own development to assist in the tuition of the junior grades. Whenever possible make yourself available to your Instructor to assist with lower grades. This form of support will be taken into account when you grade. An unhelpful, disruptive or unsupportive student is likely to be looked upon less favourably.

Every student must observe the following conduct within the Dojang in order to maintain an effective and orderly training hall.

Conduct in the Dojang

1.     Remove all jewellery before training commences, plasters must cover new piercings or jewellery that cannot be removed. This is a safety issue; if you are wearing earrings and get a strike to the head it could leave you with some uncomfortable injuries. Rings worn whilst performing step sparring could cause injuries to your partner.

 

2.     Make sure your uniform is clean and presentable prior to the class commencing. Take pride in your uniform and your appearance.

 

3.     Bow when you enter the Dojang.

 

4.     Bow to the instructor at a proper distance.

 

5.     Exchange greetings with and be courteous to other students. Ensure that the volume of greetings and discussions does not affect the Instructors ability to give clearly understood instruction to any ongoing class.

 

6.     Bow to the instructor whilst forming a line prior to the class commencing. The Senior Dan Grade or Coloured belt grade is expected to announce the line up especially if the Instructor has been delayed starting the class.

 

7.     Ensure that you are attentive to the instructor whilst the class is in session. Do not strike up conversations with the student next to you or behind you. There is nothing more frustrating for an Instructor than to be presented with a student who does not know what they should be doing because they weren’t paying attention. This wastes the Instructors time, the other Students training time and your own time.

 

8.     If your Instructor gives guidance on how a technique should be performed attempt to perform the technique according to their Instructions. Do not argue with the instructor whilst the class is in session. If you have concerns about any aspect of the tuition then discuss it with the Instructor at the end of class.

 

9.     Do not eat or drink in the Dojang, unless given instructor's permission. Be careful with drinks in the Dojang. Spilt drinks can be a serious slip hazard in an art that involves very dynamic techniques.

 

10.   Turn around and adjust your uniform neatly prior to the class ending.

 

11.   Bow to the instructor whilst forming a line prior to the class ending.

 

12.   Bow before leaving the Dojang.

 

Moral Culture

 

Unlike a sport, a Martial Art will be based on a moral code of practice which has evolved over many centuries. Taekwon-do has it’s origins in the code of the Hwa Rang which evolved from Buddhist and Confucianist principles. Many of the basic moral beliefs and practices are sadly lacking in modern society. Taekwon-do through the five Tenets encourages us all to live a much more honourable and decent way of life. Below is a brief explanation of each Tenet.

 

Courtesy - To be polite to instructors, seniors, fellow students and all we meet beyond the training hall. The phrase 'Manners Maketh Man' says it all. Basic courtesy costs us nothing but makes others feel valued and respected.

 

Integrity - Honesty, being able to define right and wrong. Not only being honest in our dealings with others but being honest to ourselves.

 

Perseverance - Always trying to achieve your ambitions, never stop trying. Perseverance and patience go 'hand in hand'. The person who identifies a weakness and keeps trying to conquer it rather than quitting at the first hurdle is likely to lead a far more fulfilling life and gain more from any activity they undertake.

 

Self control - Never lose your temper, especially with your fellow students. This is especially import within Martial Arts where we are learning potentially lethal self defence and unarmed combat techniques

 

Indomitable spirit - To show courage, determination and self belief when you are pitted against overwhelming odds. To avoid the influence of others who would lead us astray.

 

Taekwon-do Oath

 

I shall observe the tenets of Taekwon-Do

I shall respect my instructors and seniors

I shall never misuse Taekwon-Do

I shall be a champion of freedom and justice

and I shall build a more peaceful world.

 

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