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FAQS
What should I wear, and do I need a karate uniform? (aka Gi)?
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An athletic t-shirt and shorts/jogging pants are all you need. No, a karate uniform is not required right away. We recommend you complete the first session, and decide at that point if you would like to invest in a uniform. Uniforms can be purchased at the dojo.
Can I wear a uniform from another dojo?
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Yes, but only for the first session. It is expected if you continue on, our club uniform will be used.
What are the belt ranks?
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There are 9 belts which include White, ½ Yellow, Yellow, Orange, Green, Blue, Red, Brown, and Black.
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When will I be tested for the next belt rank?
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Belt testing will be determined by the skill, attitude and ability of each student.
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There is no pre-determined schedule for when a student is tested.
Are there competitions?
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Yes, there is a lot of competition in and around Alberta. There are also opportunities to compete nationally and internationally.
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Our dojo hosts the annual Calgary Open Martial Arts Championships.
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Common Terminology
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Sensei – Black belt instructor that teaches Karate
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Dojo – Place of training for Karate
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Gi – Karate uniform
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Obi – Karate belt
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Sempai - An assistant instructor that is not yet a Sensei
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What is the typical class structure?
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A typical one-hour class includes a bow-in, warm-up, stretching, technique demonstrations, practice, and a bow-out.
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How do I perform the bow?
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Sitting up straight with your eyes open, the instructor will bow to the class and say Shomi NiRei. The class will bow back twice: once for Shomi Ni Rei and once for Sensei Ni Rei.
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Japanese translation for Shomi Ni Rei during bow in:
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​Respect for your style of training, Zen Karate. Respect for your place of training, the Dojo. Respect for your classmates.
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Japanese translation for Sensei Ni Rei during bow in:
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​Respect for your Sensei
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What are the Dojo rules and etiquette?
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Students will bow upon entering/leaving the dojo area.
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All black belts will be referred to as "Sensei".
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Higher belts will assist lower belts, lower belts will follow the instructions of higher belts.
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Higher belts will not instruct lower belts in techniques above their next belt requirements.
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No profanity, horseplay or loud talking is permitted in the dojo.
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No smoking or food allowed in the dojo.
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Students will train in a clean uniform at all times.
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Students will inform head instructor immediately of any self-defense situation outside the dojo and of its nature.
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No displays or demonstrations allowed outside the dojo without the express permission of the head instructor.