Rules and Guidelines
An integral part of taekwondo training is the commitment to learn and follow the etiquette that is unique to this martial art/sport and to incorporate the elements of courtesy, self-discipline and respect into your daily life.
Please learn and follow these guidelines:
- Please remember to stand and bow when greeting the instructor and senior students. This is a simple courtesy that should also be done before and after working with another student.
- Respectful forms of address are used at all times. Korean titles such as "Sahbom-nim" (Master Instructor) and Kyosa-nim (Assistant Instructor) should be used when appropriate. When speaking with an instructor/senior please use "Sir" or "Ma’am."
- A few minutes before class begins, it is a good idea to lightly warm-up, stretch and use the time to clear your mind and prepare for training.
- The class begins and ends with a formal ceremony. It is important to be on time to participate in this ceremony, but if you are unavoidably late, please warm-up quietly on your own, then wait in rest position just off the training area, until the instructor signals permission for you to join the class. After bowing to the instructor, please join the class quickly with minimal disruption.
- Respect those who are more experienced. Be compassionate to those who are less experienced. Please never argue about technique or attempt to correct or instruct your partner if you are not asked to do so. Keep talking during class to a minimum.
- It is customary when receiving instruction to remain in rest position. When seated please keep legs crossed and do not lean against the wall. Please remain attentive and alert at all times during class.
- Please keep your uniform clean and odor-free. No jewelry of any kind, watches or other ornaments should be worn during practice. For safety, fingernails and toenails must be kept short and hair should be tied back.
- It is important to inform the instructor before class if you have an injury. If you are injured during class, notify the instructor immediately. Please never leave class without the instructor’s permission.
- All color belts must own a full set of sparring equipment including headgear, mouthpiece, chest protector, arm guards, groin cup (men) and shin-instep guards. These are mandatory for any contact sparring. All sparring must be supervised by an instructor.
- Regular attendance and practice is encouraged for all students, regardless of rank and is mandatory for promotion. Please attend a minimum of two classes per week and use Saturday classes as makeup for missed classes. Mark your attendance in the folder before or after each class.
