The study and practice of Aikido consists of more that just learning physical technique; proper behavior and manners are also an important part of the training. The following should function as an introduction to proper dojo etiquette. They should be a reflection of the Aikido spirit of love for your Sensei, your fellow students, your dojo, and finally, yourself. Please use your best common sense in all aspects of courtesy and etiquette. However, the best way to learn proper behavior is by observing the behavior of Sensei (as teacher) as well as that of the senior students.
1. Upon entering and leaving the dojo, students bow in the direction of O-Sensei's picture. This is a tradition to show respect for the founder of Aikido.
2. Shoes are to be taken off at the entrance to the mat area and zori (sandals or flip-flops) worn in the mat area. Zori should be lined up at the lower side of the mat (facing outwards during class instruction). Immediately after stepping onto the mat, students should bow respectfully in the direction of O-Sensei's picture; the most proper style is from seiza.
3. Students should assemble quietly for meditation at least five minutes before class is scheduled to start. They should arrange themselves in a straight line in proper rank order (higher rank on right side). Meditation calms the mind and it is required that everyone in the dojo, spectators and students alike, be silent during this time. It is suggested that all students kneel in seiza and await the instructor's arrival on the mat. When the instructor comes onto the mat, he and the students bow to O-Sensei's picture. Then the instructor and students bow to each other, formally opening the class.
4. The instructor should be referred to as "Sensei" during class instruction and not by his first name or surname.
5. When a student arrives late for class, he should quickly do a few warm-up exercises off the mat and then bow in and sit in seiza on the edge of the mat. Wait for the instructor to admit you to the class. Students must ask the instructor for permission to leave the class early or to leave the mat for any reason; common sense excludes injuries. It is not permissible to leave the mat for a drink of water or for rest unless given permission. Students should stay on the mat until the class is over.
6. When approaching the instructor, students should not pass between him and the picture of O-Sensei. If the student approaches to ask a question or he calls you to him, the student should bow first. Never call for the instructor across the mat or beckon for instruction. If the instructor is close by quietly raise your hand and wait to be acknowledged. Then bow and say, "onegai shimasu."
7. When the instructor is teaching a couple, it is not necessary to sit down and watch them unless he says to watch. It is preferable to keep on practicing with a minimum amount of talk.
8. If Sensei comes to help you and your partner individually, it is best to sit seiza and watch attentively; unless Sensei is having you do the technique. Once Sensei is done helping you and is leaving, a seated bow and verbal thank you are appropriate.
9. Once engaged in the practice of Aikido, clear your mind of everything but the lessons given and the principles of Aikido. Practice with unity of the mind and body and avoid all other extraneous talk and actions.
10. When the instructor claps, students should sit down promptly and listen and watch attentively. When the instructor indicates that practice is to resume, students bow to the instructor and promptly resume practicing. It is not necessary to wait for the instructor to tell you to change partners, but students should change partners when the instructor indicates.
11. When changing partners during class, you should acknowledge the partner you are leaving as well as your new partner with a seated bow.
12. Your partner is not an opponent. Techniques are learned through him and with him. It should be a pleasure to be Uke as well as Nage. Each movement in Aikido teaches the principles and spirit of Aikido and should be practiced sincerely.
13. Care should be taken to be aware of the ability of one's partner so that no injuries may occur. Nage should always be watchful for signs that Uke is in pain. Uke's attacks should always be under his full control and Nage should respond likewise. Uke's 'job' is to attack sincerely and then follow while maintaining as safe a posture as possible. Nage's 'job' is to 1) move off the line of attack, 2) redirect uke's momentum via a technique and 3) peacefully resolve the attack with the appropriate throw or pin.
14. At the end of class, students should straighten up their uniforms and line up in order of rank. The instructor and students bow to O-Sensei's picture and then the students formally thank the instructor while bowing to him. After that, the students remain in seiza until the instructor leaves the mat. At this time, it is proper to bow to each student with whom you have practiced.
15. It is the responsibility of the higher ranked members (sempai) to see that the rules of etiquette are understood and followed by the members of the dojo. The members of higher rank should assist the beginners in learning proper bowing techniques, beginning exercises, and ukemi.
16. It the responsibility of each member of the dojo to ensure that the various needs of the dojo are met. These include: paying dues promptly, setting up the practice mats, making sure the mat and dojo are clean and presentable, restocking various dojo supplies, etc. Fulfilling these needs should be anticipated, not prompted by the instructor. They should also be carried out cheerfully, without complaint. Taking care of the dojo and oneself should generate a feeling of pride in doing things to the best of one's ability. This too is as much a part of our training as is repetition of techniques.
17. A FEW DON'TS: Don't sit on the mat with your back to O-Sensei's picture, lie on the mat with your feet toward the shrine or lean against the walls. Don't wear jewelry or watches. Don't eat food or chew gum in the mat area. Don't talk when the instructor is talking. Don't wear a dirty uniform; keep fingernails and toenails clean and trimmed. Don't wear a hachi-maki (head-band) while bowing. These "don'ts" are for respect and for safety to the dojo, the aikidoka, and yourself.
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