MARTIAL ARTS FOR BOTH CHILDREN AND ADULTS!

Dojo Etiquette Checklist: Everything You Need to Know Before, During, and After Class

Whether you’re a student or a parent/caregiver, you’ll find this dojo etiquette checklist the perfect way to make sure you’re ready, respectful, and set up for success in every class.

Before Class: Prep Like a Pro

✅ Bring Your Gear

Gi (uniform)
Obi (belt)
Water bottle

✅ Stay Clean & Safe

Keep fingernails and toenails short
Cover any open cuts/scrapes with a secure bandage (athletic tape over a bandage works great)
Keep feet clean and wear shoes when not on the mats
Feeling sick? Stay home! You can make up classes anytime during the year

✅ Practice at Home

Visit the Student Area in our main menu for instructions on downloading our video library app

When You Arrive: Dojo-Ready in Minutes

✅ Five Minutes Early Is “On Time”

There’s no more important way to show respect than to be ready when class starts!
Double-check your class start time at www.edge-ma.com/schedule/

✅ Everything In Its Place

Remove shoes, socks, jackets, and other personal items before entering
Use the shoe racks and coat hooks in the lobby
Take off all jewelry and watches before training

✅ Look Sharp

Make sure your gi is neat and belt tied correctly before stepping into the dojo

✅ Karate Begins and Ends With Respect

Bow when entering and leaving the dojo
Say hi to your sensei, senpai, and fellow students

✅ Hydrate Smart

Bring your water bottle into the dojo (place it on the inside benches)
Parents: Fill bottles before class starts — students shouldn’t leave the floor for water breaks

✅ Bathroom First

Use the restroom before class begins

✅ Food & Drink Rules

No food, gum, or drinks other than water allowed in the dojo

During Class: Train with Focus

Stay in the Dojo
- Don’t leave without the instructor’s permission
Mind Your Manners
- No shouting, side conversations, or disruptions
- Instructors will give appropriate times for questions and discussion
Parent / Caregiver Etiquette
- Parents are welcome to watch, relax, or work in the lobby
- Siblings may quietly enjoy our games and puzzles
- Keep noise at an absolute minimum — think library rules
- Disruptive visitors may be asked to step outside until class ends
Phone Courtesy
- No phone calls in the lobby — please step outside
- No playing music or videos without headphones

Thanks for doing your part to be prepared — not only for class, but for a great class!

P.S. Parents — help us out and share this dojo etiquette checklist with babysitters and other child care support you may have! We appreciate your help!

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