As everyone in our 6:00 class knows, we've been having some problems with uniforms. Without wanting to embarrass anyone more than they have already embarrassed themselves, I think it is important to spell out some of the basics about uniforms and training, so that we can prevent things from ever again getting so out of hand, remedy the current situation, and encourage students to a higher level of discipline, training, respect, and dedication.
I've written the following, an updated version of our old guidelines, and will be making copies available in class. I've added a few additional comments at the end of this post.
Your gi, or uniform, is essential to your training at Five Cities Keichu-Do. It keeps you comfortable and safe. It also reflects your concern for martial arts etiquette, your level of self-discipline, your respect for your instructors and fellow students, and your dedication to training.
Choice of uniform. Students are required to wear a white karate-gi, which they may purchase from us. For most children who are just beginning, the basic student uniform is adequate. However, larger children may be more comfortable in a better quality uniform. Adults will definitely want to order the heavier weight karate-gi. Once a student begins competing, or advances in rank, it is advised that he or she purchase a better uniform as well. We have a number of options available for order. When a student is at the intermediate or advanced level, his or her uniform should reflect a higher level of discipline, training, and dedication, and should set the example for other students. That is why we strongly advise that these students replace their student gi's with a heavier weight gi that is a better reflection of their rank and achievements.
Care of uniform. In order for the uniform to stay in good condition, it is important to launder it as often as possible. Stains should be treated quickly. We've found that it helps to keep "Shout Wipes" in your gear bag. Before laundering, we recommend pre-treating the lapel area and any stains with liquid Shout. Blood stains can be treated with hydrogen peroxide, but the gi should then be washed soon afterwards to prevent yellowing. Bleach is not advised, nor is using a dryer. Pressing the uniform goes a long way towards looking sharp in class, at tournaments, and at belt tests. Some students may prefer having at least two workout uniforms so that they can always have a clean one for class, and can reserve their third, better quality, uniform for tournaments, demos, belt tests, etc.
The uniform should be carefully folded and stored when not in use. Even our younger students are encouraged to be responsible for the care of their own uniforms and belts.
Placement of patches. The Keichu-Do patch should always go on the left side of the karate-gi, over the heart. Students may choose to wear the Keichu Kai Lifetime Membership in its place. Ask Sensei about placement of any other patches.
Care of the belt. There are a number of martial arts traditions surrounding the belt. It is important to learn to tie it properly as soon as possible. The belt is similar to a flag in that it is a symbol of you and of the art you are studying. Because of that, it is important to treat your belt and the belt of others with respect. The belt should not be worn outside the dojo except when training, competing, or engaged in a Keichu-sanctioned event. The belt should not be dragged along the ground, carelessly tossed on the ground, or used for play. While belts may be laundered if they get really dirty; however, be advised that the stripes will probably need replacing.
Student responsibility. Each student is responsible for his/her karate-gi and appearance in class. It is each student's responsibility to look sharp, neat, and clean for every class. When uniforms no longer appear sharp, neat, or white, or when they become too small, it is important that they be replaced immediately.
Remember, your uniform reflects you. It demonstrates to your fellow classmates and your instructors how seriously you take your training, as well as how much you respect yourself, your classmates, your instructors, your Sensei, and your Soke. Looking sharp is part of training hard.
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A few other comments:
We realize that it is only fair to have a higher standard for our students who are older and/or more advanced in rank. Just as we expect that an advanced student's kata will no longer look like a beginning student's kata, we expect that an advanced student's appearance should not be that of a beginner.
When you compete at a tournament, know that you do not represent just yourself. You represent your dojo and the Keichu Kai. Your appearance should reflect that. So should everything that you do and say.
When you are preparing for a belt test, know that we will evaluate more than just your technique. The correct attitude is essential, and becomes even more crucial as you advance in rank. The condition of your karate-gi at your belt test communicates your level of respect for the testing panel, the importance you place on advancing to the next rank, your degree of self-discipline, and your dedication to Keichu-Do.
Also, we recognize that, in the past, we thought that friendly hints and reminders would be enough to remedy problems. We now realize, of course, how wrong we were. I apologize to my students for allowing things to go on as long as I have. I should have taken direct action much sooner. From now on, we will take this issue far more seriously.
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