Dojo and Training Etiquette

Training etiquette is a basic part of our Ki and Aikido program. Etiquette teaches respect for all things, discipline, and creates a safe environment in which we can learn to help and care for each other.

 

 

Basics Rules to Follow

• Every student is responsible for creating an atmosphere of harmony and respect.

• Respect the dojo, respect your training equipment, and respect each other.

 

 

Dojo Etiquette
Although there are many forms of etiquette to remember, they will become more natural as you continue to train. Please do not be resentful if you are corrected on a matter of etiquette, this too is a part of your training.

 

Practicing proper etiquette goes a long way in promoting an atmosphere of harmony and respect. The correct attitude of respect, sincerity, and modesty creates an atmosphere essential to the learning process and safety of each student.

When entering and leaving the mat area, always perform a seated or standing bow facing the Kamiza (image of O’Sensei).Bow upon entering and leaving the dojo and when stepping on and off the mat.

 

Bow to each other and the sensei during training. This demonstrates respect for all, but more importantly, demonstrates an open mind and willingness to learn.

 

Address instructors and assistants as “sensei”.

 

Use good personal hygiene. Come in clean clothes. Finger and toe nails should be trimmed short and kept clean to avoid injury.  Remove all jewellery.

 

Students should listen carefully and observe proper training rules to avoid injury.

 

Respect your training equipment. Your gi should always be clean and in good repair. Weapons should be in good condition and stored in the proper place when not in use.

 

If you are unavoidably late for class sit quietly, in seiza, at the edge of the mat, until Sensei gives you permission to join the class. When stepping onto the mat perform a seated or standing bow facing the Kamiza.

 

Do not disrupt the class when entering the mat area.

 

 

 

The proper way to sit on the mat is in seiza. If an injury prevents you from sitting in seiza you may sit cross-legged with your feet underneath.

 

Never sit with your legs outstretched or lean against walls and posts.

 

You must remain alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.

 

If you must leave the mat or have a question for Sensei regarding practice, go directly to him; never call Sensei over to you.  Bow respectfully and wait for his acknowledgment.

 

---

While Sensei is demonstrating a technique, sit quietly and attentively in seiza (kneeling). After the demonstration, bow to Sensei, then bow to your partner and begin practice.

 

When Sensei signals the end of a technique or practice session, stop immediately, bow to your partner, and line up with the other students.

 

If someone near you is receiving personal instruction from Sensei, you may stop your practice and observe. Sit quietly in seiza and bow to Sensei when he has finished.

 

If you know the technique being studied and your training partner does not, you may lead your partner through the technique but do not assume the role of the instructor.

 

During class keep talking to a minimum and directly related to what you are practicing.

 

No eating, drinking, or gum chewing in the mat area. There is no smoking anywhere in the dojo.

 

All mobile phones and pagers should either be turned off or on silent so as not to disrupt class.

 

Most importantly, always have fun and enjoy your practice!

 

Visitors are always welcome to observe class but the following rules of etiquette should be followed:

• Sit quietly and respectfully.
• Do not disturb anyone on the mat.
• Do not talk or walk around while Sensei is demonstrating.
• Do not eat, drink, or chew gum in the mat area. Do not smoke in the dojo.
• Make sure all mobile phones and pagers are either turned off or on silent.