What is a Dojo?

In its most basic and functional definition a dojo is a training hall. Simply, a facility where one may practice some sort of physical endeavour such as a martial art or gymnastics. Because the word is Japanese it is appropriate to mention that it was originally a place devoted to the practice of Zen which was eventually adopted by practioners of Budo. Then as now, it had four walls: Kamiza with its Shomen in front opposed by the Shimoza wall in the rear, a Joseki and Shimoseki for side walls and sometimes a Tokonoma for display of revered artifacts. Occasionally a seating area for royalty was provided in the Kamiza. Certain arts still utilize the original woven grass tatami (or similar) for practice but we have adopted the more forgiving foam type. Often there can be found auxiliary rooms adjacent to the mat area which function as dressing rooms or showers. These rooms then also become part of the structure termed a dojo.

A dojo is basically a place.

Because of its original usage a dojo became known as a place of Enlightenment, the ultimate goal of Zen Buddhism. When practicioners of Budo such as the Samurai adopted it for use it became known as a place where the "Do" or the Way of "Bu" could be practiced. From earliest times we can see that a dojo was never merely a gymnasium. It was always a place of very special learning and remains so today.

A dojo is a place of learning.

People from near and far come to gather for common purpose in a dojo. Even at a glance one can see that there is no ethnocentric division. All people there are interacting together in friendship and harmony, a rare enough but much to be admired situation in today's world. Of course this is especially true in a mixed society like our own. Still, this coming together creates a lasting feeling of commonality, tolerance and cooperation that these people carry into their daily lives.

A dojo is a place of community.

Obviously this definition is not sufficeint for a dojo, like any structure cannot exist by itself. Even viewed simply as a building it is clear that a dojo must be supported in terms of time, money and good managenment lest it fall into disrepair from neglect or incompetence. After all, an operating dojo is a place of business and must be treated as one at all times. Even from its inception a great deal of investment risk is required. True, a dojo can be just a space rented from a disinterested landlord but without ongoing support it will certainly fail. Moreover, a well trained, devoted and professional instructor is essential. And of equal importance are enthusiastic, motivated students committed to practice, willing to give of their time and money.

A dojo is a place of commitment.

Like all living things a dojo must be nurtured and loved in order to thrive and must have definite goals as well. Primarily it must perservere and grow but ultimately it must have a loftier aim. Its spirit must be carried beyond the constrains of its four walls and into the world outside. If this latter goal is achieved the dojo will have meaning. Perhaps an old Zen saying puts it best: "Hobo kore dojo". Your life is your dojo. It follows therefore that your dojo is your life.

A dojo is alive.

It is obvious then that a dojo is not so easily defined. Far more than a training hall of traditional design it offers learning. It is community. It is total committment. It has life. With good reason indeed do we bow when entering and leaving this "Place of the Way." Like enlightenment itself only with time will the fullest meaning of the word become clear.

Take a pictorial tour of our Dojo here!

Proper Dojo Etiquette

• Bowing - This simple act should never be taken lightly because it is here, in this time that the student focuses all of his or her intent to pay respect and gain respect within the dojo. To begin, students bow upon entering and leaving the dojo (this should never be hurried) as well as to each other, their superiors and at the beginning and end of every class. They will also bow from seiza (kneeling position) after quiet meditation and after reciting the dojo kun (training hall oath). The bow will always be accompanied by the word "Osu"(pronounced "oos"). The word "Osu" means perserverance. In the karate dojo it is used as a sign of greeting, respect or understanding.
• Courtesy & Respect - These subjects have already been broached in the act of bowing. To continue the student's development in dojo etiquette, talking in the dojo during class is always kept to a minimum and usually only when a question arises or if partners are training together and then it should be kept brief. As should be expected there is no food, drink or gum allowed on the main floor of the dojo. The student should always be clean, neat and free of any unpleasant odor. This same statement applies to the student's uniform. All jewelery should be removed prior to entering the dojo. This is for everyone's safety. Upon arriving late to a class students will remain in seiza until acknowledged to enter the dojo floor by the Sensei. If a student needs to leave class they must ask permission from the instructor.
• All students are expected to be considerate and well behaved at all times. Advanced students are expected to set an example to new students and help such students whenever necessary.