Our word of the week is Etiquette, or Ye in Korean. It is an expression, through actions, of a basic attitude of respect and decorum, and is considered the fundamental base upon which the human spirit stands. In Taekwondo culture, observing proper etiquette is extremely important. As I prepared to write this blog, I recognized that at Grand Valley Taekwondo we have incorporated many of the common elements of Ye but there are a few that may be new to you!
BOWING
When you bow, it signifies not only respect for your instructors and classmates, but also respect for yourself.
We always bow at the beginning and end of class. We always bow to our partner before and after we practice together. It is customary to bow any time you step on or off the mats. It is respectful to bow upon entering a dojang.
When visiting another school, it is respectful to bow upon entering, and it is expected that you will bow when introduced to the instructors or black belts of that school. If a visiting instructor comes to our school, it is expected that you will bow when introduced.
When you bow to an instructor, a referee, or to a partner, you will look at the floor while you bow. The only time it is appropriate to look up at someone while bowing is if you are about to fight them.
UNIFORM
Always attend class in your full taekwondo uniform (dobok in Korean) with your belt (dhee) tied correctly. If you are unsure how to properly tie your belt, ask your instructor before or after class.
Keep your uniform and your body clean. Finger- and toenails should be kept trimmed short for safety and hygiene. Belts are never washed.
All jewelry should be removed before class, including rings, necklaces, earrings, etc. This is a safety issue, for yourself, your partner, our equipment, and your jewelry. Silicone bands are permitted.
If you have to fix your uniform during class, the proper etiquette is to turn your back to others while adjusting your clothing. Once your clothes are resituated, you turn back around.
Taekwondo uniforms should not be worn in public except when absolutely necessary.
SHAKING HANDS
When shaking hands with a fellow martial artist, you should place the back of your left hand under your right elbow, then bow slightly as hands are clasped. According to tradition, this indicates that you do not have a weapon hidden in your opposite hand and are trustworthy.
It is customary for the "senior" or higher-ranking person to offer to shake first.
START OF CLASS
At the call of Chulsa ("line up") students should line up, facing the flags, in belt order with the highest ranking student at the far right, to the lowest ranking student on the far left.
If you come to class without your full uniform, you will line up at the far left, regardless of your rank.
SPEECH
Appropriate language should be used in class. Swearing or abusive words are not permitted in the dojang. While such language may not be considered objectionable to the individual, we show courtesy to others by refraining from language that is commonly considered offensive or inappropriate.
Instructors should be referred to by Master, Mr., or Ms. and their last name. Black belts should be referred to by Mr. or Ms. When given instructions by an instructor or any senior student, the correct response is "yes sir" or "yes ma'am." The Korean word for teacher is "Sabunim" and though we do not use it commonly in our dojang, it is also appropriate to call an instructor by this title (ie "Yes Sabunim.")
BEHAVIOR IN CLASS
Always try to be on time for class. If you do come late, it is appropriate to do 10 pushups (since you have probably missed part of the warmup) and wait on the side of the mats until invited to join class by an instructor.
While learning in class, you should not interrupt the instructor. If you have a question, it is appropriate to raise your hand or to wait for the instructor to finish speaking and then ask privately.
Students should not sit or lie down during class unless directed to do so.
If you have been asked to perform a certain number of repetitions and you finish, you should either raise your hand for further instruction, or do extra repetitions until others around you have also finished.
Senior students should set a good example for lower ranking students. The highest ranking student in the class has a responsibility to ensure that the instructor's directions are followed rapidly and respectfully. Lower ranks should show respect and follow the good example of the higher ranks.
It is not appropriate to teach other students a new technique unless you have been asked to do so by the instructor.
BEHAVIOR IN THE DOJANG
Treat the dojang with respect. Do not purposefully damage the equipment or premises. Accidents happen, and gear naturally gets worn, but if you make a mess or cause unusual damage, it is appropriate to clean up after yourself or to make reparations.
If you are in the waiting area, you should be considerate of the class in session. Keep noise to a minimum and do not distract the students in class.
If you are seated and there is an older person standing, it is appropriate to let them have your seat.
If you have arrived early for class and the mats are not in use, you are welcome to practice. However, it is appropriate to ask permission before using any equipment.
AND MORE...
These points are honestly just the basics when it comes to Taekwondo etiquette. If you research the topic, you will find extensive instructions for any situation you might encounter during your martial arts journey. The important thing to remember is this - always default to respect. When in doubt, bow!
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