Dojang Rules
The dojang is a formal training hall of higher learning where students of all ages and physical abilities can learn the martial art of taekwondo. Taekwondo can help one achieve one’s fullest potential in and out of class. Behavior, regardless of rank, must at all times show the respect the dojang deserves.
The first rule of self defense is to avoid conflict whenever possible.
Sign in when you get to class. To get promoted you must attend classes regularly.
Chewing gum, drinks of any type, or eating is not allowed during class. You may keep a bottle of water on the side for drinking during breaks.
You are expected to have good hygiene when attending taekwondo class.
Be on time for class. Arrive five to 10 minutes early to warm up and stretch so you are ready when class begins.
Black dhee (dan) holders line up from right to left in dan order. Color dhee adults line up from right to left in dhee color order and seniority order. Children of the same rank as an adult line up to the left of the adult.
If you are late for class, kneel at the edge of the mat on your right knee. Fold your left sleeve closed, hold your left arm up supported by right hand near the left wrist. When told to enter by the Kyo Sa Nim you may enter class and line up behind the rest of the class.
If you are on the mat waiting for class and Kyo Sa Nim (instructor) enters the dojang, you should stop what you are doing, stand and bow. After they have returned the greeting please sit quietly and wait for their instruction.
Upon entering and leaving the dojang, bow to the Kyo Sa Nim.
Shoes and socks are not allowed on the mats at any time. Exceptions can be given by the Kyo Sa Nim for medical needs.
When greeting one’s fellow students always greet them with “hello, sir” or “hello, ma’am” as the case might be regardless of rank.
Always introduce yourself to a new student or visitor of the class.
Keep you fingernails and toenails clean and trimmed.
Do not leave class without permission from the Kyo Sa Nim. If you must leave while class is ongoing, ask the Kyo Sa Nim for permission and leave without disturbing the class. Notification before class is preferred. Bow before leaving the dojang.
When you approach your Kyo Sa Nim, bow first and say respectfully, “excuse me, sir” or “excuse me, ma’am.” Always respond to the Kyo Sa Nim or black belt by saying, “yes, sir” or “yes, ma’am.”
When you need assistance, tell your Kyo Sa Nim that you do not know a movement and the Kyo Sa Nim will assist you.
Always maintain self-control. Losing one’s temper is to be avoided. Arguments will be settled by both students having to sit out a cooling off period. Further arguments will be cause for being banned from class for a time period decided by the Kyo Sa Nim. If you are permanently banned for misbehavior tuition will not be refunded.
Students are expected to help maintain the cleanliness of the dojang common areas.
Remove watches and jewelry, except for flat, smooth wedding rings, before class. These items can injure the student and others. They could also get damaged. Store these valuable items in a safe place. Barrett’s Taekwondo, LLC is not responsible for any loss or theft.
If one’s belt becomes loose or the dobok needs adjusting students must face away from the Kyo Sa Nim and class before making adjustments.
There will be no sparring without the Kyo Sa Nim being present. Intentional, excessive contact is not permitted.
One of the tenets of taekwondo is courtesy. Horseplay and running in the dojang is prohibited. There is equipment and furnishings that one can get injured by.
Do not ask when students are to be promoted to the next rank. Your Kyo Sa Nim will invite students to test when the Kyo Sa Nim sees that the student is ready and has attended the required number of classes.
Students who have won awards in any tournament or martial art activity, including trophies and medals may display their award during class. Photographs may be taken for posting on the dojang website and other social media.
Gamsahamnida,
Hamish