Training hall
rules
The GKR Karate Dojo Kun was put together by Kancho Robert Sullivan, Kyoshi Gavin Samin, and Kyoshi Anthony Ryan.
Dojo Kun is a Japanese martial arts term which literally translates to “training hall rules”. Its aim is to articulate the values and ethics that are expected of anybody who is part of the GKR Karate community. This applies to students and instructors, and refers to conduct both inside and outside the dojo.
We hope you find it inspiring, and beneficial to your general outlook both in and out of the dojo.
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PURSUE THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF PERSONAL CHARACTER
The art of karate is more than just physical. A true karate-ka should aim to act with integrity both in and out of their gi. For such a person, speaking and doing are the same action. Within the dojo, character is built through strong discipline, rigorous training and repetition. The courage to stand up for oneself will be achieved through the gradual development of stronger techniques and enhanced physical strength. This fighting spirit can also equip us with the fortitude to overcome personal challenges, sickness, loss, or other ‘life-related’ setbacks.
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CULTIVATE A SPIRIT OF EFFORT AND PERSEVERANCE
This involves exercising the dedication and commitment necessary to achieve mastery of the martial art. This spirit should also be applied to matters outside the dojo including ones schooling, career, pursuit of good health, and personal relationships. It should be recognized that mastery cannot be achieved in any endeavor without strenuous effort and sacrifice on the part of the practitioner. This rule also reminds the student to’never give up; and to treat failure as the feedback needed to improve future performance.
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EXERCISE COURTESY AND RESPECT TOWARDS OTHERS
Gichin Funakoshi stressed that karate begins and ends with etiquette. He stated that without courtesy there is no dojo. Showing respect is a sign of humility, which enhances the student’s ability to learn, and prohibits behaviours that seek to put others down. In essence, we should treat parents, teachers, work colleagues, the law, and the wider community with the same level of respect that we would pay our instructor or fellow student.
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REFRAIN FROM RECKLESS OR VIOLENT BEHAVIOUR
This is a reminder to control your behavior and endeavor to remain calm at all times. A confident person of sound character can walk away from conflict because they are in control of their emotions, and at peace with their abilities. They do not have to test their skills to prove a point. They win without fighting and have no regrets because nobody will be injured. If circumstances force you to defend yourself, then know that you have taken these actions as a last resort and for the purpose of personal protection only.
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BE FAITHFUL AND SINCERE IN EVERYTHING YOU DO
To be faithful is a strong samurai tradition that requires you to be true to your obligations, to other people, and also to yourself. This requires the karate-ka to exercise loyalty, and do their very best in everything that they undertake. When you are faithful and sincere to others, others will be faithful and sincere to you.
“Developing strong character, integrity, and living honourably ought to be our goal — all the rest will follow.”
Kancho Robert Sullivan, Founder & Chief Instructor, GKR Karate International
What it looks like
on the mat
GKR teaches you not only how to punch and kick. The precepts are the reason the dojo feels the way it does.
Self Defence
Synonymous with martial arts, self defence and inner self confidence are one of the key takeaways from regular training. From the age of 5 GKR teaches basic self defence and extraction moves, continuing right through to our senior grades.
Weight Loss
Karate is a great way to lose or maintain a healthy weight, with most classes consisting of aerobic, stretching and toning activities. For those who may not have exercised in some time, GKR provides a supportive environment where students can train at their own pace and physical ability. Our classes are a mixture of men, women and children of all ages.
Focus
Many parents are keen to see their children develop greater focus and discipline through their martial arts training, and GKR’s classes provide the perfect environment. Instructors teach in a respectful and supportive atmosphere through karate inspired games, activities and drills.
Family
GKR promotes a family environment, encouraging kids, parents and relatives to all train in the same class. Staying a few karate grades behind your children, will encourage them to continue a regular training program.
Respect
As a traditional Japanese martial arts, karate promotes respect to our instructors, our club, each other and most importantly ourselves. This is a key part of your learnings as a student of GKR karate.
Friendships
Although karate is considered a solo sport, it is still the foundation for many life long friendships. Classes include games and partner work where children and adults alike take the opportunity to learn about and bond with their fellow class mates.