Aikido Dojo Etiquette
Aikido is a martial way, a discipline, and an educational process for training the body, mind, and spirit. The correct attitude of respect, sincerity, and modesty is essential to one’s learning process and character development. Adhering to the Aikido respect guidelines is necessary for achieving the right attitude in the study of Aikido:
Respect the Founder and his teachings, respect your instructors, respect your seniors, respect the dojo, respect each other, and respect your training tools. In class, respect the instructions and techniques of the class instructor. For every technique and movement, train with your best effort. There shall be no disagreement or argument regarding any instruction given.
Train to be effective but with gentleness, kindness, and control. It is your responsibility to not injure your partner, those training around you, and yourself. Aikido is an art of harmony, and there shall be no competition, show of ego, or conflict on the mat.
The fees collected provide for the training facilities and equipment and is also a way of showing gratitude for the training received. Please pay your fees promptly. A clean dojo makes training more joyful, so it is your responsibility to assist in cleaning the dojo. The cleaning process also helps you prepare your mind and heart for class.
Upon entering and leaving the dojo, bow in the direction of the shomen. Do not leave the mat during class unless ill, injured, or to rehydrate (with the permission of the instructor). It is important to be on time for class and to participate in the opening ceremony. If you are late, you should wait, seated beside the mat, until the instructor gives permission to join the class. Quietly bow as you get on the mat.
During class, when the instructor shows a technique, sit quietly and attentively in seiza position. After the demonstration, first bow to the instructor, then to your partner, and then begin practicing immediately. If you need to ask the instructor a question, go quietly to him or her. Bow respectfully before asking your question.
When receiving personal instructions from the instructor, sit in seiza position and watch attentively. Bow formally when the instructor has finished. When the instructor gives the signal to stop practicing a technique, stop immediately and bow to your partner. Quickly sit with your partner and pay full attention to the instructor.
Speaking to your partner on the mat, if necessary, must be done quietly, discretely, and kept to an absolute minimum. Fingernails and toenails must be worn short. Feet must be clean. Shoes or sandals are not allowed on the mat. Sanitize your hands and wipe your feet before entering the mat. No eating and drinking on the mat. Jewelry (including watches) should not be worn during practice. Following these Aikido training rules and dojo etiquette ensures a respectful and harmonious environment for all practitioners.
