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Etiquette
Since kung fu is an ancient art, it is customary to observe traditional practice in relation to showing respect, and for this a bow is used. The bow is made with the right hand clenched in a fist. The left palm is placed over the fist with the fingers kept straight. Both elbows are bent to form a circle at about chest height, and with the feet together and knees straight a small bow is made. You should always keep your eyes on the person to whom you are bowing. In this context, the fist is considered to be your weapon, and by covering it with your open palm you are indicating friendly intentions.
You should bow when you enter and leave the training hall to honour the space and traditions and to indicate that your focus while there is on training to develop your skill. Bow to your instructor at the beginning and end of your lesson to show respect for the challenges they have overcome to progress from beginner to instructor. Bow to your training partners to indicate that you will work together and help each other.
Scotland Lau Gar School Rules
These rules are an updated version of the original rules from the Shaolin Temple.
- Always show respect for your Sifu. Wish good moral character, love and respect to the senior students and help the junior students.
- Train hard in kung Fu to understand the difficulties your Sifu overcame.
- Do not show off. Be gracious and humble in your behaviour. Show respect for others.
- Do not laugh without reason, threaten others, boast or lie.
- Do not hit someone smaller than you or use your abilities for revenge.
- Do not blame others or argue loudly.
- Do not be lazy. Remember that the literal translation of Kung Fu is ‘a skill earned through time and hard work’.
- Do not gossip. Do not be a bully.
- Do not be greedy nor steal property from others.
- Be nice to everyone. Be modest. Be devoted to public duty. Be without ego. Be ready to help others and to help them be happy.
The Code Of Conduct
- The Master of the school is known as and referred to as Sifu.
- A salutation or bow is given to the Sifu when entering or leaving the school and when entering or leaving the kwoon (training hall).
- The use of profanity is not allowed within the school.
- Always come to class well groomed and clean. Wear the appropriate school uniform. Jewellery and watches should be removed before class.
- Be punctual for classes. If you are late, warm up on your own outside so as not to interrupt the rest of the class, and then ask the Instructor’s permission to enter the class.
- If you are unable to attend class, notify the Instructor.
- Unnecessary discussions are discouraged. Talking is not allowed during the lesson except when asking pertinent questions. Have non related discussions after class.
- Do not interrupt the Instructor when he/she is teaching. Do not disrupt any other student’s class or practice.
- Do not teach what you have learned to anyone else, including students within the school, without the Instructor’s permission.
- Treat your fellow students with respect. Think of their progress as well as your own. Help each other to practise, use control and never injure your fellow students.
- Keep a clear mind and healthy body. Smoking drugs and alcohol are not allowed on school premises. They should be avoided outside class as well.
- Maintain a kind and respectful image wherever you go. Practise with confidence, not conceited attitude.
- Treat the kwoon and all its equipment with respect. Clear up after yourself and do not leave weapons or other equipment lying about.
Students will be dismissed for disorderly conduct.