For Current & New Students
Student Resources
We are so glad you have decided to join us at Hamilton Karate! Everything you need to get started, in one place.
New Student Info
Getting Started
Our Student Guide. Click to download the PDF.
Our Dress Code.
The Basics
What You Need to Know About Your First Class
- Upon entering or leaving the mat area of the dojang (school), students always bow to the front.
- Shoes are never permitted on the mats. Socks are allowed; barefoot is preferred.
- Uniform pants are required. Tops can be a uniform top, a Hamilton Karate t-shirt, or a plain colored t-shirt (no tank tops or sleeveless). Uniforms should be washed regularly.
- Belts are never worn outside the dojang. Put them on before entering the mat area, remove them before leaving, and never place a belt on the floor.
- When an instructor asks you to do something, respond with “Yes, Sir!” or “Yes, Ma’am.”
- Remove jewelry before class to avoid injury.
- No food or drink on the mats. No gum or candy: it’s a choking hazard.
- Bring a filled water bottle; there’s no drinking fountain.
- A bathroom is through the lobby and to the right; a changing room is through the lobby at the back of the classroom.
- Payments are due on the first day of the month of the new quarter, unless other arrangements have been made with Mr. Boun.
- Parents are welcome to sit on the benches just inside the front door, or continue through the lobby to the benches on the back wall.
Student Creed
Kids Student Creed
I will obey my parents. I will clean my room. I will wear my seatbelt. I will brush my teeth. I will use good manners.
Adult Student Creed (13+)
I will develop myself in a positive manner and avoid anything that will reduce my mental growth and physical health. I will develop self-discipline in order to bring out the best in myself and others. I will use common sense before self-defense and never be abusive or offensive.
This is a black-belt school. We are motivated, dedicated and on a quest to be the best. Sir! Ma’am!
Videos
Instructional Videos on YouTube
We offer videos on basic techniques and the first nine forms we teach. Videos don’t replace learning and practice in class, but they’re a good way to refresh your memory outside the dojang. Higher-level forms (Pal Gwe 7, 8, Koryo and up) and techniques are best taught in class, so they aren’t on our channel. Titles often carry a color corresponding to a belt level: see our playlists for videos suited to your rank.