These Maxims are motto's, the spirit of which serious students of Karate should try to follow if they wish to gain the maximum from their training. The Maxims are like the English saying 'Service not self', 'Deeds not words', 'Be prepared' and exemplify an attitude which dictates a way of life.

Reisetsu O Mamori (Stick to the rules).
In the dojo good etiquette must be observed by the following rules.

1. Try not to be late for class (allow enough time to get changed and pay fees). Late arrivals should enter the Dojo quietly and warm up. When ready to join the class, they must kneel at the back and side of the class, where they can be seen by the Sensei, and watch carefully for the Sensei’s signal to join in. When the signal is given, they should remain kneeling, bow deeply, and then walk quickly and quietly to a convenient position.

2. Always bow every time you enter or leave the Dojo.

3. Keep the Dojo clean, by immediately removing outdoor shoes when entering the Dojo. It is polite to walk around the edge of the training area.

4. Keep finger and toe nails short and clean.

5. Jewellery or watches should not be worn. If it is not possible to remove rings or earrings, they must be safely covered.

6. Instructors should be referred to as Sensei.

7. Junior grades should acknowledge that respect should be shown for seniority.

8. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that their Gi fits correctly and is kept clean and in a good state of repair. The appropriate belt must be worn with the Gi at all times.

Shingi O Omanji (A student must have loyalty to his instructor).
This is the most important thing in Martial Arts. It is not possible for someone to change his style in Japanese Martial Arts - people who do so cannot learn the correct etiquette and spirit of Martial Arts.

Jojitsu Ni Oberezu (Teachers and students are not all one).
Outside the Dojo you can be friendly with your Sensei but do not take advantage of this friendship.

Shinkenmi Ni Tesseyo (Be serious in your efforts).
No flippancy, chattering, smoking, gum chewing, eating or drinking in the Dojo. Concentrate solely on Karate and train hard in everything you do. The dojo is not a social gathering hall and visitors as well as students shall respect the rules and Maxims.

Dojo Kun