Students should not practice kata they have not formally been taught by an instructor. Kata is the way a Sensei passes down his style of karate to his students. Students should study it hard and focus on the kata they have been taught.
Kata has subtle movements and every kata has several layers to be learned.
No impromptu demonstrations of karate, outside the dojo, will be allowed without the Sensei’s permission. Your karate training and skills are the concern of you and your Sensei. Often times demonstrating your karate to others, outside the dojo makes you appear to be “showing off” or bragging about your abilities. From time to time, demonstrations will be organized through the dojo and you may be asked to participate in those events. If you have a group of people, ie. church groups, co-workers, etc. that are interested in karate training then please let an instructor know and maybe a demonstration would be appropriate and could easily be arranged.
Students should not register or compete in any martial arts tournament without the permission of the Sensei. Any time a student competes or displays his karate skills, he is representing his Sensei and his dojo. The Sensei has a vested interest in where he and his dojo are represented and who he is represented by. Often the Sensei will know more about the tournament than the student and may have chosen not to be represented there. Students are encouraged to discuss their competition goals with an instructor. Remember competing in tournaments is a privilege and not an inherent part of your Karate-do training.
A student should always demonstrate the utmost sportsmanship. It is important to be a “good winner” and a “good loser”. Even the best competitors sometimes lose and when they do, people will be watching them to see how they behave. Tournaments are often a testing ground for not only physical skills but personal development as well. Competition can test a student’s humility, self-control, courage, integrity, and courtesy. It is important that the student represents his dojo, his Sensei, and their training well.
Kumite Protocols
All appropriate equipment and sparring gear is required while sparring. Students will need protective gear, a mouthpiece and cup and supporter (males).
Always bow to your fellow Karate-ka before starting any kumite exercise. Remember you are assuring your kumite partner that you are sharing a common goal of personal improvement.
Always train with the proper attitude. There is no place for ego during training. This is often difficult for students that are just learning to spar.
Never practice kumite without an instructor present or without permission.
Do not attempt techniques on a partner that you have not been taught by an instructor. Sometimes students may see techniques performed by advanced students that appear simple on the surface but have complex less obvious movements. Remember your partner is not a “practice dummy” but a person that has volunteered to help you learn. Remember the movies are not training films and actors are not instructors.
It is not appropriate to ask a senior belt to spar. Senior belts may be training on different material or directed by the Sensei to focus on certain aspects. It is, however, alright to ask an instructor for help on sparring techniques.
