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

1. Stay in the Dojo

   • Don’t leave without the instructor’s permission

2. Mind Your Manners

   • No shouting, side conversations, or disruptions

   • Instructors will give appropriate times for questions and discussion

3. 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

4. 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!