DYNAMIC MARTIAL ARTS OF SIOUX FALLS
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Dojo Code of Conduct and Etiquette ​

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This Code of Conduct applies to all programs taught at Dynamic Martial Arts, including traditional martial arts, historical European martial arts, fencing, Tai Chi, and related disciplines. While each art has its own customs and traditions, all training at this dojo is guided by shared values of respect, safety, discipline, and personal growth.
Our dojo is a place of learning. Proper conduct ensures that training remains safe, meaningful, and welcoming for everyone, regardless of art, age, or experience level.


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1.  Arrive on Time -
​Please make every effort to arrive on time, or a little early, for class. Arriving late disrupts instruction and is considered disrespectful to instructors and fellow students.
  • If you know you will arrive late or need to leave early, inform the head instructor in advance whenever possible.
  • If you arrive late, enter quietly and stretch or warm up off to the side. When you are ready to participate, position yourself respectfully at the edge of the training area and wait for the instructor to acknowledge you.
  • If you must leave early, notify the instructor at the beginning of class and again when it is time to depart. Exit the training area respectfully.
2. Respect and Etiquette -
Respect is the foundation of every martial tradition, whether Eastern or Western.
  • Show respect for the training space, instructors, training partners, and fellow students at all times.
  • Follow the customs and etiquette appropriate to your specific art, as explained by your instructor.
  • Pay attention when instruction is being given and refrain from unnecessary conversation or distraction.
  • When working with a partner, acknowledge them respectfully before and after training together in a manner appropriate to the art being practiced.
  • Courtesy, attentiveness, and professionalism are expected whether you are training, observing, or assisting.
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3.  Uniforms, Clothing, and Appearance
Different programs use different training attire. Regardless of style, all students are expected to dress appropriately for safe training.
  • Wear clean, well-maintained uniforms or training clothing approved for your program.
  • Do not wear martial arts uniforms or protective gear casually outside the dojo, except as permitted by your instructor.
  • Remove all jewelry, watches, and accessories before training.
  • Maintain good personal hygiene, including trimmed fingernails and toenails.
  • For art-specific uniform requirements, consult your instructor or training manual.
4.  Personal Conduct
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A martial artist is a person of character and honor.  That means that all students are expected to follow a strict code of conduct.  Students should conduct themselves in an honorable, responsible, and respectful manner both in the dojo and during their day-to-day lives.  Other expectations include:
  • Students will refrain from making false, fraudulent, misleading or deceptive representation about their rank, ability, background or training.
  • It is important and required that you accept your classmates solely for the purpose of learning martial arts and helping them to be proficient in all aspects of the art.
  • Do not act in any manner or say anything to any other participant in your dojo that would be distracting and disruptive to the normal instructional pattern of the Sensei.  The only justification for any type of disruption is if a student is in imminent danger of injury.
  • It is forbidden to engage in/or support any practice which results in discrimination of any kind including but not limited to discrimination based on race, color, creed, age, sex, ancestry, national origin, veteran status, disability or sexual orientation.
  • No student should demonstrate unsportsmanlike conduct during class or competition.  Such conduct will result in suspension of training.
  • Your personal conduct both inside and outside the dojo is a direct reflection of both you and your instructors.  It is expected that your behavior upholds the values and morals of the dojo.  Failure to do so may be grounds for your membership to be terminated.
  • All students are expected to represent their training honestly.  
  • It is forbidden to use the art(s) we are teaching you in vein or for aggressive reasons at any time.  If used in any means besides self-defense or competition purposes, the student will be immediately dismissed from class and dojo membership will be terminated.

5. Honest Representation of Training and Skill
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Honesty and integrity are essential to safe and effective training. All students are expected to accurately represent their background, experience, and abilities. Accurate representation protects training partners, maintains fairness, and ensures a safe learning environment for everyone. With that in mind DMA has the following expectations:
  • Students must be truthful about any prior martial arts, combat sports, fencing, or weapons training, including ranks held, certifications, competitive experience, or instructional roles.
  • Misrepresenting, exaggerating, or concealing prior training or skill level is considered a serious breach of trust.
  • Rank, titles, or credentials earned elsewhere are respected, but they do not automatically transfer to this dojo.
  • Placement, rank, responsibilities, and permissions within the dojo are determined solely by the instructor based on observed skill, conduct, and safety considerations.
  • Students are expected to train at the level assigned by the instructor, regardless of past experience.

6.  Safety
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One of the greatest concerns when participating in any activity involving physical contact is safety.  Martial arts is no different.  The techniques you will learn can inflict extensive damage if not performed with control.  Please read the safety rules listed on the “safety rules” page and follow them carefully.  The expectation include but are not limited to:
  • Students must inform instructors of any injuries, medical conditions, or limitations that may affect safe training.
  • Medical clearance or parental consent may be required before participation.
  • Follow all safety rules outlined in your student manual and all instructions given by instructors.
  • Work cooperatively with your training partner. Adjust speed, power, and intensity to ensure mutual safety and learning.
  • Required safety or protective equipment must be worn as directed by the instructor and for the specific activity.
  • If a partner signals discomfort, pain, or a stop, immediately release or disengage.
  • Report injuries, unsafe conditions, or unsafe behavior to an instructor immediately.​
  • The head instructor reserves the right to restrict or suspend training if a student’s health or safety, or that of others, is at risk.

7. Equipment Use and Care
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Students are expected to provide their own training equipment.  Dynamic Martial Arts does have a limited amount of training equipment we loan to students, but students are responsible for all liability associated with the use of that equipment.  Other guidelines for the use of equipment at DMA include:
  • Treat all dojo equipment, training weapons, and protective gear with care and respect. Students may be held responsible for any damage they cause to dojo equipment, whether intentional or unintentional. 
  • Use only equipment approved for your class and experience level.
  • Do not use another person’s equipment without their explicit permission.
  • Inspect weapons and equipment before use and notify an instructor of any damage or concerns.
  • Return all equipment to its proper place after training.

7. Sharing What You Have Learned
We would like to ask that you please refrain from sharing the information and techniques you learn in this class with others.  If they would like to learn more about what you are doing, invite them to class where they may learn the information in a safe and controlled manner, with qualified instructors.  Even if they do not want to participate, spectators are always welcome.
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8. Self Defense
Please remember the art(s) you are learning is/are for self defense purposes only.  Use of any of these martial arts in an aggressive manner is strictly prohibited, and is grounds for expulsion from the dojo.  You are welcome to enter into sanctioned tournaments and similar activities with your instructor’s permission, but remember you are representing not only yourself, but also the entire Dynamic Martial Arts name.  Please respect what so many have worked so hard to create.
8.  Parents and Spectators
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When at our dojo, our students are here to learn.  This is only possible if the students environment is effective.  With that in mind, we have the following expectations of our parents and guest when in the dojo.
  • Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising children who are not actively training.
  • Parents and spectators must remain respectful and avoid coaching, correcting, or distracting students during class.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, please address your concerns to the head instructor teaching at an appropriate time.  
  • Spectators and students waiting for their turn on the mat are expected to maintain a quiet training environment for students.  Please keep disruptions to a minimum.  
  • Disruptive parents, guardians, or guests will be asked to leave.

9. Care for the Training Space
  • All students share responsibility for keeping the dojo clean, organized, and safe.
  • Follow instructor guidance regarding cleaning, equipment storage, and care of the training area.
  • Taking care of the dojo is part of training and shows respect for the space and the people who use it.
9. Discipline
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  • Discipline within the dojo is the responsibility of the head instructor and designated teaching staff.
  • Students may not discipline, reprimand, or correct others unless specifically authorized.
  • Violations of dojo rules may result in a warning, removal from class, suspension, or termination of membership, depending on severity.

Regardless of the art you study, the purpose of training is growth of both skill and character. Approach each class with humility, focus, and a willingness to learn. Support your fellow students, respect your instructors, and take pride in being part of a shared training community. When respect is present, the dojo becomes a place of trust, challenge, and personal development for all.
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By training at Dynamic Martial Arts, students, parents, and guests agree to uphold these standards and contribute to a safe and respectful dojo environment.

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Copyright © 2016
  • Home
  • About
    • Class Schedule
    • Instructors >
      • Head Instructor
      • Instructors
      • Grand Masters >
        • Hanshi Alexander
        • Hanshi Usera
        • Hanshi Penland
    • Programs >
      • Bujin Ki Ryu Jujitsu
      • Shorin Ryu Karate
      • Kobudo (Weapons)
      • Japanese Sword
      • HEMA - Longsword
      • Tai Chi Chuan
      • Fitness Classes
      • Home School Classes
      • Demonstration Team
      • Olympic Fencing
      • Kendo / Kumdo
    • Affiliations
    • Common Questions
  • New Students
    • Why DMA?
    • First Day of Class
    • Safety Rules
    • Common Questions
    • Sign Up
    • Waiver Form
  • Current Students
    • Safety Rules
    • How to tie your belt
    • Caring for your equipment
    • Japanese Language
    • Dojo Rules and Etiquette
    • Recommended Reading
    • Supplementary Training Information
    • Digital Training Resources
  • Self Defense
    • Overview of Self Defense
    • Register for a class
  • Private Training
    • Private Training for Individuals
    • Small Group Training
    • Seminars for Corporations
    • Police & Security Tactical Training
  • Events
    • Sioux Falls Open
    • Winter Warrior Camp
    • Martial Arts Summer Camps
  • Contact
  • DMA Online Store