Code of Conduct, Rules, Regulations, and
Culture at the KYK Taekwondo Center

Training in the martial arts is mental as well as physical in nature. Besides techniques of self-defense, we are learning arts which build self-control, discipline and respect for other people. These mental states are attained by following certain traditions and formal behavior while within the Dojang (Training Hall).
1. All students are responsible for reading, understanding, knowing, and observing all the rules and regulations. Failure to adhere to the rules may result in termination from the program.

2. Bowing:
· To bow is a gesture of respect and acknowledgment. When done properly and sharply it reflects a sense of awareness, making the school a special place, with an attitude of seriousness for training.

The student will always bow:

· Upon Entering and Leaving the Training Hall.

· When first seeing the head instructor or his assistants and bow to them once again when leaving or
 when beginning and ending practice with a partner.

3. Speech and Proper Address:
The Master Instructor of the school is always to be address by the proper title, "Master", "Sir", "Ma'am" or
"Teacher." Korean Titles of Kwan-Jang Nim, Sa-bom Nim, Kyo-sa Nim, or Sun-Bae Nim will be used as well.  All the Instructors and Assistant Instructors who will be continually helping you in your development, are to be addressed as "Mr._______" or "Miss________". In reply to question or command requiring an answer, all students should answer "Yes Sir" "No Sir" or “Yes Ma'am’ “No Ma'am.”

(3a.) When addressing the chief instructor, students will approach him, or her, at attention, wait to be acknowledged, bow, ask the question, wait for an answer, bow, then return to their workout. Unless otherwise instructed, students will stand while addressing all instructors.

(3b.) If called by the instructor, and more than (3) three steps are required for the student to position himself/herself in front, the student will run!

4. The instructor must be obeyed absolutely.

5. Higher-ranking students deserve your courteous respect.

6. Concentrate totally on the instructor's directions.

7. If you are going to be absent or tardy; out of courtesy notify the school as soon as possible.

8. No street shoes are to be worn in the workout area. You may wear a pair of training shoes that are only worn in the school.

9. Profanity is not to be used and will not be tolerated.

10. All uniforms are to be kept clean at all times. Also, students are to pay respect to their own bodies and keep themselves clean and well groomed.

11. Fingernails and toenails will be kept cut back and clean at all times.

12. No watches, rings, or jewelry of any sort will be worn during training, except eyeglasses when necessary.

13. Horseplay is not allowed, in or out of the training area. Respect and order will be maintained at all times.

14. No unnecessary noise. When not working out, please sit quietly. Do not bother others with needless chatter.

15. PLEASE PAY YOUR DUES AND ASSESSMENTS PROMPTLY. Often, we get carried away with the more exotic aspects of martial respect and formalities, and forget that it is not particularly polite or respectful to expect a school or instructor to wait for you to pay your tuition. Your cooperation in this area is one very important way you can contribute to the smooth operation of the school. If you don't pay for your lessons, there will not be any lessons for you.

16. Please help keep the training hall, changing rooms and rest rooms clean.

17. Do not always depend on instructor, practice before and after the lesson. Seek out the assistance of your seniors.

18. Never do anything to dishonor the school or your instructor. The misuse of your martial arts or the creation of a bad personal reputation within neighborhoods or communities by a student may cause the student to be suspended or expelled from the school.

19. Parents: Encourage your children!!! Their efforts need to be rewarded. Do not compare them with others in the class. Each child is unique, and will benefit differently from the next. As a rule, parents and visitors are not welcome to watch classes from inside the school. However, during testing, special occasions, or special sessions parents and visitors will be allowed exception. During these times we ask that you do not talk to your child during class-time. Please leave the discipline and coaching to the instructors. Spectators may be asked to leave at anytime. Rude or problem spectators will be ejected and not allowed to return. This includes parents. If a parent needs to speak with their child for urgency, please inform the instructor and the instructor will excuse the student for Urgent Messages Only!!

20. Always remember that you are an important member of a proud family. Be cheerful and show a good positive attitude at all times.

21. Lower ranking students will not touch high-ranking students, and black belts.

22. When a black belt member enters the room for the first time, the senior student will have all students immediately stop what they are doing, face the black belt, and bow to show respect. It does not matter if the black belt holder is in or out of uniform.

23. Students will not be dismissed from class until the instructor has finished. Students that must leave prior to the end of class must request permission from the instructor.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Students will not engage in any criminal or gang activity.

2. Students will not wear gang related clothing.

3. Students under age 18 will not use tobacco, or consume alcohol under the age of 21.

4. Students will not be in possession of illegal drugs.

5. Students will not be in possession of illegal weapons.

    
SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:

1. All men and boys will wear an athletic supporter and groin cup during each class. This is a mandatory requirement.

2. All women and girls will wear a t-shirt under their uniform top. This is a mandatory requirement.

3. All students will maintain a clean appearance, including hair, and wear a clean, pressed uniform at all times.

4. Remove your shoes & sign-in prior to beginning your training.

5. Provoking fights, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated!!

6. Female students must wear their hair combed up out of their face during training. A braid or bun is preferred and hair must not extend below the top neckline of the rear of the student's uniform. This is required for student safety.

7. Male students must have their hair styled neatly during training and not have hair that is blocking their view in any way. Short hairstyles are preferred, but not required. If a male student desires to wear a long hairstyle, it must be styled in a way that it will not extend below the top neckline of the rear of the student's uniform. This is required for student safety.

8. Fad or outrageous hairstyles will not be allowed.

9. All students will have a mouth-guard with them at each class.

10. Students will practice contact sparring. Sparring safety gear is required. It may be purchased at local sporting goods stores or from the instructor at a reduced price. The club has a limited set for students to borrow, however students are expected to obtain their own gear. Soft style shin guards suggested for each class. Additional sparring gear includes a soft helmet, footpads, hand pads, and shin guards. Breast pads or chest covers are optional.

Tenants of Taekwondo
Proper Student Attitude and The Martial Art Spirit

The development of character and mental strength based on Taekwondo tenants is considered the most important goal in training along with the attainment of technique. Listed below are some helpful aspects concerning the development of this martial art character or 'spirit.'

Student Attitude:
· One's attitude toward the martial arts must also be considered when training. If one's attitude toward training is lackadaisical, then the proper benefits will not be achieved. Due to the seriousness of martial arts, the student should adhere to seriousness towards their training. Proper attention should be shown to every aspect of training in-order to develop properly.

Courtesy, Humility and Respect
(The junior/senior relationship)

The true martial artist conducts himself or herself in a polite and unassuming manner, and is never known to be arrogant, disrespectful, or a "showoff." In particular, talented or higher ranking students must realize that no matter how 'skilled' they may become, they must always display proper courtesy and respect. They must accept that they are never 'above' being corrected or needing improvement.

By having a humble attitude and by showing proper respect, the good martial arts student shows to his or her seniors and instructors that he or she is worthy of receiving higher knowledge and that they aren't likely to abuse the skills imparted to them. The good student furthermore displays kindness, generosity, patience, and a willingness to share their skills with others.

This mutual trust and courteous interaction between junior and senior, student and instructor (the junior/senior relationship) is the basis for maintaining a safe and productive learning environment in the do-jang, and for promoting better social relationship in day-to-day life. If this process were likened to a machine, then courtesy and humility could be considered both the fuel and the lubricant that keeps it running smoothly.

Integrity
(Sincerity and Honesty)

Martial artists should stand out as always sticking to their word and following through on their important commitments. Honest, yet tactful in his or her dealings with others, the martial artist strives to always influence those around him or her in a positive manner. Self-effacing, the martial artist tries to recognize and correct his or her own personal shortcomings before criticizing others. Reserved in speech, yet dynamic in action, the martial artist always puts "100%" into everything he or she does letting a "job well done" stand as an example of who and what they are.

Perseverance, Self-Discipline (Self-Control) and Indomitable Spirit

In any worthwhile endeavor, whether it be martial arts training, school or job related goals, setbacks, difficulties, and periods of waning interest can invariably be expected. Realizing this, the good martial artist accepts and even welcomes adversity with a spirit of challenge (positive mental attitude or "indomitable spirit"). By applying resourcefulness, analytical thinking, and patient resolve (perseverance) to overcome problems, the martial artist strives to turn mistakes into positive learning experiences, and failures into success. Through self-discipline and determination, the martial artist employs self-motivation and industriousness in setting goals and following through with them.