Mandarin Martial Arts

General Etiquette

1. No gum.

2. No jewelry (piercings can be removed before class or covered with tape).

3. No profanity.

Etiquette In Class

1. Bow upon entering or leaving the dojo, including water breaks, restroom breaks, etc.

2. If you need to leave during class let your Sensei know and bow out before leaving.

3. Line up in order of rank. If someone is higher rank than you, they will be in front of you or in the line to your left depending on available space. For two students of the same rank, the one promoted first is considered the higher rank. If you are not sure, always assume you are the lower rank.

4. If you are late, do 10 pushups and bow in to the instructor of your class at that time. This is not a punishment, but a way we discipline ourselves. Additionally, it will get your blood flowing and warm up your muscles before jumping into the middle of a workout.

5. When adjusting any part of your uniform in class, turn to the left of whichever direction your class is facing.

6. Do not walk through another class. Go behind the class (or in front if the behind is blocked). This is to protect students from accidents and avoid interrupting other classes.

Training Safety and Etiquette

1. When partnering with others, bow to each other before and after working together. This is a sign of respect and signifies the beginning and end of your session together.

2. Do not stand with arms crossed or hands on hips, nor should you lean against the walls.

3. If you are below brown belt and unless you either have permission from your Sensei or you are working on a technique as a group with your Sensei, do not teach techniques to other students, regardless of how well you believe you know them. Refer all questions to your Sensei.

4. Sparring is only permitted with an instructor present. Students must always have permission to spar.

5. If you or another student is injured during class, notify an instructor immediately.

6. If you have a pre-existing injury or limitation, tell your instructors or your partner, especially if the exercise will further the injury.

7. Always ask before handling anyone’s weapons or equipment. Always treat your weapon with respect. Use two hands when offering/receiving a weapon and bow to the other person.

Basic Terms

1. Cuong (Kung) Nhu (New): Cuong = “hard”, Nhu = “soft” in Vietnamese. Our style of martial arts blends hard and soft techniques.

2. Dojo (doh-joh): “The hall of the way.” A place where martial artists train.

3. Gi (ghee): Uniform of pants, tunic and belt worn in the practice of martial arts.

4. Kata (kah-tah): Combination of stylized moves simulating combat.

5. Kiai (key-eye): “Spirit/breath yell.” Short, explosive sound used to focus energy, activate muscles and breathing, and frighten/distract your opponent.

6. Sempai (sem-pie): “Upperclassman.” Term for any non-Sensei of higher rank than you who is teaching you. All brown belts in Cuong Nhu are referred to as Sempai.

7. Sensei (sen-say): “One who has gone before. Teacher.” Term for anyone of Black Belt rank or higher.