Community Guidelines & Expectations

Class Etiquette

Know the etiquette and expectations specific to your martial art(s) — capoeira and karate are different! Read the etiquette guides and ask questions if you have any. Etiquette is often a way of addressing a potential safety issue or encouraging an important tradition.

Arrive on Time

Come to class on time and ready to train. If you need to change your clothes or use the restroom, we ask that you arrive early enough to do so before the start time of class.

Sobriety

You must be sober while training, without exception - if we have reason to believe you are intoxicated, you will be asked to leave and not return to class until you are sober. 

Illness

If you are ill, please help keep our community safe and stay home. If your illness is minor and you would like to come to class, you may do so if you test negative for covid before the class and wear a mask. (We may have tests and masks available - email in advance to be sure.) Note: If you are ill, we are happy to livestream class for you! Email us to let us know and we can make sure you have a class link.

Hygiene

Practice good personal hygiene: keep your body and training clothes clean, tie your hair, cut your nails, remove any jewelry, and wash your hands/feet. Please be sensitive about wearing strong scents (cologne, deodorant, etc.)

Leaving Class

We ask that you not leave the mat without first getting permission from the instructor unless it is an emergency. Wait to drink water until the instructor announces a break. If you need to leave the mat, raise your hand and ask to step off, then return quickly and quietly as soon as possible.

Positive Attitude

Bring a positive attitude to training and do your best to follow the lessons - remember that consistency is the best way to improve. 

Communicate Limitations

Please alert your instructor to any limitations you may have - new or chronic injuries, mobility difficulties, sensory challenges, etc. - there is always a way to modify your practice. 

Names & Pronouns

Make a point to know and use everyone’s name and correct pronouns. If you see someone new, introduce yourself and welcome them. If you accidentally misgender someone, correct yourself, apologize, and move on.

Notes & Directions

When working with a partner, refrain from too much talking or giving notes. If there are questions, ask the instructor - someone else may benefit from your question.

Conflict

Interpersonal conflict is normal, and, in the best case, generative. Address conflicts as they arise with accountability, honesty, and compassion. Don’t hesitate to seek support from RAC staff/instructors.

Hate Speech

Hate speech and intolerance will not be tolerated. RAC welcomes people of all backgrounds and identities, and you may find yourself working with folks who are different from anyone you’ve met before. Ignorance is not unforgivable, but it’s not acceptable as a permanent state. If you make a mistake, take accountability for any harm you may have caused, as well as for educating yourself so you can do better in the future. If you need support or have questions, ask RAC staff/instructors for help, rather than the person who was harmed.

It is our expectation that all community members adhere to these guidelines. If you have any concerns about your ability to do so, please reach out to us. If a community member is not following one or more of these guidelines, they will first be made aware of the issue by an instructor. The instructor will help create a plan if necessary for the community member to be successful at adhering to the guidelines moving forward. If a community member is repeatedly unable to follow these guidelines, they may be asked to leave until they are able to do so. Our goal is accountability and community wellbeing, not punishment or permanent expulsion.

If you have any questions, feedback, or concerns, do not hesitate to speak with your instructor or email hello@resistanceartscollective.org