JIKF - Opening Class ceremony

Opening Class Ceremony

The class lines up and sits in seiza, a formal sitting position. The instructor will prompt you for each of the following. You should volunteer to announce the response (in bold) by raising your hand and saying "Osu!"

The Purpose of Seiza

To build orderliness and humbleness to the mind and body

The class closes their eyes for concentration. This is called mokusou. It minimizes distractions.

The Purpose of Mokuso

Warming up the mind for training hard

After a few moments, the instructor will give the command to open eyes: "Mokuso yame!"

The Purpose of Japan International Karate Training

Not to conquer others, but to conquer the weaknesses within oneself

Dojo Kun (Precepts)

Uphold the principles of propriety and courtesy
Cultivate the spirit of effort
Perfect a mind of patience
Live the way of truth
Do not lose self-control or act in a violent manner

Three Basic Factors for...

... Mental Strength:

1. Seriousness

2. Try hard

3. Never give up

... Mental Attitude:

1. Initiative

2. Responsibility

3. Pride

... Relationships with Others:

1. Appreciation

2. Consideration

3. Unity

The Purpose of the Opening Class Ceremony

The opening class ceremony is one of the most significant and unique parts of karate training. The purposes of the opening class ceremony are:

To build up spirit and enthusiasm among students and instructors
To promote class unity
To warm up and focus the mind
To clear distracting thoughts so the mind can receive new learning

During the ceremony, every student should take the initiative to volunteer and announce with plenty of spirit. Those who don't yet know the ceremony will be prompted when chosen to announce, so that they may learn it. There is no reason not to volunteer.

Nippon Kokusai Karate-do Renmei

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