Etiquette & Dojo Basics

Dojo Kun – Kihon Fundamentals

Welcome to the very first stop in our Kihon Fundamentals series – guiding you from your very first day in the dojo to a lifetime of training.

In this short introduction we look at dojo etiquette – the essential foundation before any technique is learned. Respect for yourself, your training partners and the dojo itself begins the moment you step inside.

We cover:

• Entering the dojo correctly
• Cleanliness and personal preparation
• Bowing and showing respect to others (and to the kamidana if present)
• Informing your instructor of any injuries
• Removing jewellery and anything that may cause harm

These are simple but vital practices that create the right mindset for training, ensure safety, and build mutual respect – the heart of Karate-Do.

Bowing | Kihon Fundamentals

In part two of our Kihon Fundamentals series, we look at bowing etiquette in the dojo. Bowing is far more than a formality – it reflects respect, humility, and readiness to learn.

This video covers:

• How to kneel correctly (seiza)
• Proper posture, spacing and hand placement
• The sequence of bows (shomen-ni-rei, sensei-ni-rei, otagai-ni-rei)
• The meaning of onegai shimasu – “please give me a good lesson”
• How to rise smoothly and respectfully

Bowing is the gateway to training. Done with sincerity, it sets the tone for the entire class and reminds us of the spirit of Karate-Do.

Taking Yoi Dachi | Kihon Fundamentals

In this short, we look at how to correctly take Yoi Dachi in Wado Ryu Karate. Often overlooked, this stance sets the tone for everything that follows.

We cover:

• The meaning of “quietly confident” posture
• How to close your fists naturally, without tension
• Correct width (about one foot length, not exaggerated)
• Why too wide or too narrow weakens your balance
• A simple partner test to find the right stance

Getting Yoi Dachi right is about balance, readiness, and calm confidence — the true starting point of practice.

Shoshin | Kihon Fundamentals

In this video we look at the concept of Shoshin – “beginner’s mind.”

When you enter the dojo, your mental attitude must change. Shoshin is about stepping onto the floor ready to learn, with no preconceptions or ego. It’s the mindset of curiosity, openness, and the willingness to absorb knowledge, no matter how many years you’ve trained.

Whether it’s your first day or your 10,000th, Shoshin reminds us that true progress in Karate comes only when we keep the desire to learn alive.

Making a Fist | Kihon Fundamentals

In this video we focus on one of the most basic – yet vital – fundamentals of Karate: how to correctly make a fist.

We cover:

• Rolling the fingers and positioning correctly for seiken (the first two knuckles)
• Why tension in the fist affects the whole arm and posture
• The “boiled egg” principle – firm but not crushed
• The difference between clenching on impact and staying relaxed in preparation
• How relaxation leads to better balance, posture, and effective striking

A proper fist is more than just a hand shape — it’s the foundation of safe and powerful technique in Wado Ryu.

Tying your belt (Obi) | Kihon Fundamentals

In this video we focus on one of the most basic – yet vital – fundamentals of Karate: how to correctly tie your belt.

We cover:

• The first of three different ways to tie your belt

A proper tied belt is a sign you are ready to learn and have the right mind set for the class ahead.