Class begins promptly at the scheduled time. Students should arrive approximately ten minutes prior to the scheduled start time in order to ensure that their uniform is tied properly. Late students are an interruption to the entire class. If at all possible, please ensure you arrive on time. 

Discipline is an important part of any martial arts program. At AMA, students should address all instructors and their assistants as "Sir" or "Ma'am". 

There is no talking during class. Students with questions should raise their hand. There is no horseplay allowed before, during, or after class. No jewelry (earring, watches, rings, necklace, etc.) is to be worn during class. 

Every student is given a "Belt Program Study Sheet" upon enrolling. This contains information that you need to know for belt advancement. 

UNIFORMS

All students must wear an all while karate uniform or the school T-Shirt with white karate pants, with an elastic waistband, to participate in class. 

Each student is expected to keep the uniform clean and neat but never to wash the belt. Before or after class, it is acceptable to wear the uniform pants. Uniforms should not be worn while shopping, playing sports, eating, etc. Students must wear their complete uniform in class (top, pants, and belt). The karate uniform should only be worn in class and during karate events. 

CLASS SPARRING

Karate is a contact sport. At certain times during the course of each session, students will be sparring. Unlike boxing, the objective of karate is to score points without hurting the opponent. Points are awarded for "tagging" the opponent on specific target areas, on the body, with karate techniques. 

All contact should be light and controlled.

The rules for sparring are explained to the student before any contact begins and these rules are reviewed from time to time. 

SPARRING EQUIPMENT

When the student spars in class there is no contact allowed to the face or the spine area. For safety reasons, we do require that all students provide and wear a mouthpiece and we require boys to wear an athletic cup and supporter. You can purchase these from your instructor if desired. 

TOURNAMENTS

If you wish to participate in a tournament, AMA instructors will work with you to prepare for the tournament. Participation in a tournament is not required for advancement in belt rank.

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