Bow-in and Line-up Procedure: Students must always bow prior to entering or leaving the classroom (dojo). To begin class, the highest ranking sempai will give the command, "narande" (line-up). It is at this point that all students must quickly line-up by rank order (by belt and kyu level). The highest ranking students start at the right front of the room (when facing forward). All other students will be lined up in right to left order in the first row. The next row will begin the same manner with the highest ranking student at the right and moving to the left. The lowest ranking (beginners) will eventually be in the last row to the left. All students will stand in a ready position (yoi). The lines and rows will be neat and symmetrical. The sensei will be facing the class in the center front of the room (dojo). The sempai will then give the command, "kio tsuke" (attention). The next command given is, "sensei ni rei" (bow to the instructor). All of the students will bow as a sign of respect to the sensei. The sensei, in turn, will also bow towards the students as sign of respect and gratitude. Class is now ready to begin. Keep in mind, there are several different ways of bowing-in for karate training. Some dojos may include a kneeling (seiza), bowing to the front (shomen ni rei) to honor the senseis of the past, and a meditation session. Some dojo have the students bow the sempais as part of the bowing in ceremony.

Attire and Appearance: Jewelry, watches, and hats should be removed prior to any training. Uniforms (gi) must always be kept clean, with no holes or tears. Shoes and socks must be removed. Men must have no shirt or a white T-shirt on underneath the gi top. Women must have only a white shirt on underneath the gi top. No colored shirts are allowed under the gi. Fingernails and toenails must be kept trimmed and your hair should be kept back. When adjusting your uniform or belt, turn and face the back of the room.

Addressing Senior Instructors: When asking a question during practice, simply raise your hand or say "sensei...." Do not say the instructor's name or just speak out. Always maintain polite behavior. When approaching the instructor it is proper to bow first, then wait for acknowledgment before asking a question or making a comment.

Behavior During Class: Never make excess noise, chew gum, or swear during class. Whether waiting in line for the next exercise or waiting in the back of the room, talking should be kept at a minimum or not at all. There should be no talking if the sensei is addressing the class. When you hear the command to stop all activity (yame) is given by the sensei, stop everything you are doing immediately and listen. When arriving late to class, you must line up in the front right side of the class and wait for permission to train. The sensei will acknowledge you when it is time for you to begin to train. Do not begin until the sensei has acknowledged you and given permission for you to train. If you need water, a bathroom break, don't feel well, etc., then bow out and exit the class to the rear of the room. You do not need permission first. Let the instructor know if you need to leave the class early.