Dojang

The Dojang is a place of learning. It is where individuals come, not only to learn how to defend themselves physically, but mentally as well. It is the goal of art to help develop the whole person. Member’s help each other learn from their experiences both in and out of the Dojang. A person should take pride in themselves not only in how they conduct themselves while in the Dojang but, outside the Dojang, in their normal daily activities.

The goal of Tae Kwon Do training lies in the attainment of the most ideal human values through rigorous physical and mental practice. The body follows where the will leads. The attitude of the mind will eventually determine the state of our bodies. If the mind is determined, the body will become strong but flexible enough to meet any challenges.

Safety is an important issue in Tae Kwon Do. The classroom setting is not the place for aggressive behavior. We want every one to complete each class safely. Control should always come first. When sparring, maintain an appropriate distance. Never make contact unless instructed. Instantly obey your instructor's command to "Stop". Tae Kwon Do can be a lot of fun, but it must always be safe.

As you become a member of the Dojang, you will begin to see the importance of the proper etiquette to the process of training. The Dojang(the training area) is a very special place, unlike any other. Not only are the standards of behavior high, but the rules of conduct are different as well. For example, in the Dojang, we bow to our instructors, colleagues and friends, rather than merely shake their hands or wave. Respect for each other is not only valued, but its demonstration is also insisted upon. Below is a list of basic rules to be followed inside the Dojang:

• Bow to the flags when entering or leaving the Dojang.


• When the class is ready to begin, the instructor will call on everyone to line up. Students line up according to rank and seniority, the highest ranking member to the front right as he faces the instructor.

• Address the instructors as 'Sir' and 'Madam'. In addition, all black belt members should be addressed by their last name.

• If coming late to class, you should wait for the permission of the instructor to enter class. Sit quietly at the side, raise your hand, and wait for the instructor to see you.

• No metal of any sort (jewelry, wedding rings, etc) should be worn during class. Members should help keep the Dojang clean. All personal belongings should be kept out of the training area. Every student is responsible for his/her own valuables.

• During class, proper respect and discipline must be maintained at all times and Dojang etiquette followed by all members. The chain of command must be followed at all times. The instructor's floor commands are to be obeyed. During sparring the double clap is the command to stop instantly.

• If it should be necessary for a student to leave the Dojang before the class is over, he must get permission from the instructor, unless he received permission prior to the workout. If there is a break during class, the instructor will give the commands to fall out and resume the training.