The Counter Combat Club (CCC) follows the traditional Caucasian, English, and Japanese codes of etiquette.

Reigi (礼儀), meaning proper etiquette and pronounced “reh-yee”, is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and is especially important in traditional martial arts schools. Reigi is based on respect—for one’s Sensei (coach), senior students, training partners, the school, and even the equipment we use.

In practice, Reigi goes far beyond simple manners. Every action has a correct way of being performed, and failure to follow these standards may be seen as a lack of respect or poor behaviour. In some cultures, such lapses can even be considered a serious insult. For the Western mindset, these codes of conduct can be difficult to fully grasp and are often applied in a less rigid manner. Nevertheless, as martial artists, we should always strive to observe Reigi to the best of our ability and continually improve it.

Good etiquette is what separates disciplined martial artists from those who lack respect. It defines how we interact with others and reminds us to treat people with the same courtesy and respect that we expect in return. Reigi is therefore a cornerstone of martial arts practice, shaping not only how we train, but how we conduct ourselves in everyday life.

Without Reigi, martial arts risk becoming just another physical activity—offering fitness benefits but lacking character, discipline, and depth. Etiquette builds discipline; discipline creates structure; and through structure, students better understand and absorb what is being taught. These values naturally carry over into daily life, helping individuals become more respectful, confident, and balanced people. This is one of the key reasons why many parents choose to enrol their children in martial arts training.

Reigi, however, must always come from the heart. It should never be empty ritual or mere “lip service.” Without genuine meaning and intention, etiquette loses its purpose. True Reigi is lived, not performed.