LBKA has a unique approach to training and while we take our sport seriously we also take pride in creating an enjoyable and relaxed atmosphere at our dojos.

LBKA etiquette

1. All jewellery and shoes (excluding martial arts shoes) should be taken off prior to class.
2. Fingernails and toenails should be kept short to avoid scratching other students whilst sparring.
3. Students should never use karate unless it is for self-defence. The best defence is to walk away. The literal meaning of karate is ‘empty hand.’
4. Disciplinary actions can range from simply letting the student know that they have done the wrong thing to expulsion from the school. Expulsion is always the last resort. Our teachers will always guide students to respect our code of conduct.
5. Parents behaviour can often mould their child’s behaviour so it is crucial for parents to support the instructors’ teachings. Unless cross-training, students train between an hour to an hour and a quarter each week so it’s important for parents to have an understanding of their child’s progress.
6. It is highly recommended for brown belts to cross-train because by this stage the syllabus is quite extensive. A Brown belt training only once per week will take a very long time to attain a Black belt.
7. Cross-training is encouraged, as students are able to work with different partners and instructors giving them greater experience. It also gives the person the opportunity to practice their skills more frequently and thus improve their level of proficiency.
8. Shin insteps should be put on prior to class starting. This will maximise sparring time.
9. Inappropriate language or gestures will be disciplined accordingly.
10. Grading assessments are completed by the dojo instructors. Parents and students are asked to refrain from questioning the instructor’s judgement but are encouraged to seek advice at any time on how to reach their goal.
11. If a student misses a class they are encouraged to do a make-up class at another dojo. Students who train once a week are expected to have no more than two absences in a grading cycle.
12. The code of the Bushido should always be emulated in the dojo and followed to the best of the student’s ability outside of the dojo.