Upon entering the karate school or dojo, students bow and greet with a loud "OSU."
Upon entering the Dojo, they say OSU while bowing toward the front of the room (Shinzen), then bow again and greet the karatekas in the room, paying special attention to those with higher ranks.
Students must always arrive at the training venue on time. If they are exceptionally late, they bow to Shinzen with OSU, sit in the Seiza position with their backs to the Dojo, bow their heads, close their eyes (Mokuso), and wait for the call to join the training session. As soon as they hear the Tate Kudosay call, they bow while still in the Seiza position and say OSU or Onegai Shimas. They then move to the back of the group, taking care not to pass those who are training, especially the older ones.
Students must maintain themselves and their equipment so that they are always clean, well-groomed, and odor-free, and they must encourage others to do the same. Only clean white Dogis may be worn. The official Kyokushin logo (Kanji) is permitted on the left side of the Dogi, above the heart. Any tears or creases in the Dogi must be repaired immediately. Constantly untidy clothing and equipment reflects poorly on fellow students and the Dojo.
No part of the Dogi may be removed during training without permission. If any part of the Dogi needs to be adjusted during training, it must be done quickly and quietly, turning away from the others.
Karatekas must show due respect to their higher-ranked and older peers. When their leader or any black belt enters the room, karatekas must stand up and greet them with a loud OSU.
Before addressing or greeting a Sempai or instructor, karatekas bow with OSU as prescribed, and do the same when leaving. This should also be followed outside the Dojo, as we must always respect our Sempai. If a student is not aware of the rank of another Dojo student, they should greet them as if they were of a higher rank.
If the occasion calls for shaking hands, always do so with both hands, which is a sign of trust and humility, and say OSU. This also applies outside the Dojo, especially when dealing with a partner of higher rank.
Students respond to questions or instructions from their instructor or superior with a loud OSU and react immediately to the question or request. A slow or indifferent response is rude.
In the dojo, students should concentrate on their training and not let their thoughts or gaze wander elsewhere. They should always treat their instructor and fellow students with complete respect and sincere appreciation. They should approach Kyokushin training with the seriousness it deserves.
Karatekas must treat their fellow students in the dojo with respect and must not undermine the sincere atmosphere of Kyokushin with disruptive, disparaging, or mocking behavior. Likewise, they must not bring negative feelings into the fight, where they can create an atmosphere that carries the risk of unwanted injury.
During their time in the dojo, students are allowed to sit down and "relax" in the Seiza or Anza position.
Students are not allowed to leave the Dojo without permission. If they need to leave urgently for any reason, they must indicate this respectfully (with OSU!) and explain the reason for their departure to the instructor.
To avoid injury, students are not allowed to wear jewelry or other sharp clothing accessories during training. Glasses worn for medical reasons are allowed, but it is advisable to remove them during combat or use soft contact lenses instead, as is the use of shin, groin, and chest protectors.
The training hall is traditionally a place that demands respect, so karatekas are not allowed to wear hats or caps in the Dojo, nor are they allowed to use vulgar language. Shoes are not allowed in the Dojo. Food, chewing gum, and drinks are not allowed. Eating is not allowed in the Dojo! Smoking is not allowed in any room!
All karate practitioners must help with tidying up after training. In general, karate practitioners must take great care of the hall as a place of respect.
All members must refrain from malicious gossip and disparaging remarks about other karatekas, schools, or martial arts styles.
Karatekas who wish to participate in Kyokushin competitions or events must seek the advice of their instructor before applying.
If a karateka wishes to visit another Kyokushin Dojo, they must first request permission from their instructor. If a karateka wishes to train at a partner school, they must have a valid IKO membership card and bring a written recommendation from their instructor.
