DOJO ETIQUETTE

 

1.       Be on time for class.  When late, get dressed as quietly as possible, then sit at the edge of the mat until you have gotten permission from Sensei to join the class.

2.       Learn to count in Japanese as soon as possible.

3.       Acquire and pay for your gi in full immediately.

4.       Do not get behind on your dues without writing a note to Sensei explaining your situation.  You are considered a perpetual member until you quit.  You cannot “take a month or two off” expecting not to pay.  If you are a dedicated, serious student, we will take your individual situation into account if you are having financial problems.

5.       Do not ask to come to class twice a week until you have gained some experience and proven yourself to be a student in good standing.

6.       Do not talk during the exercises or during any demonstrations by Sensei.

7.       Unless injured or completely confused, work out with vigor!  If you want to examine a technique in great detail, take it offline before or after class with any ranking student.

8.       Do not resist excessively unless you can tell your partner how to correct their technique.

9.       Do not use strength, excessive force, or improper technique.  The objective is not to “win” but proper Aikido.  If you are working out in pairs, either ask your partner for help, or ask them to not resist you.  If you encounter problems during randori, just stop the technique and go to the next uke.

10.   When working out in groups, let the highest ranked student use their judgement in instructing and correcting techniques.  The highest ranked student is the most experienced, and also the best judge of how the workout time is spent within the group.  Excessive teaching slows down the workout for the group.

11.   When doing a forward throw techniques at the end of class, get up and out of the way quickly so as not to get rolled into by the next student or disrupt the flow of the technique for the person taking their turn.

12.   Ask permission to bring someone down to the watch, especially if they are interested in Aikido.  Use your best judgement of that person’s physical ability and personality.

13.   Please keep your finger and toe nails clipped short.