Etiquette eases the relationships between people and it is the basis of training. Etiquette is often perceived as respect. Indeed, etiquette is an attitude that can be a reflection of respect. Etiquette develops and nourishes concentration, attention, and other qualities such as humility, patience and sincerity. These qualities are important not only in Aikido, but in many other aspects of life. When we follow a proper etiquette very closely, we are training our spirits.
Aikido is a flowing martial art, ultimately without form. Form, however, must be learned in order to relieve the necessity of form. The same applies for dojo rules and etiquette.
The dojo and training room are places of training. All focus once inside must be respect and training.
Arrive on time. On time means 15 minutes before the scheduled start time of class to help set up the mats, address any administrative issues, stretch your body and prepare your mind to focus on training.
When entering the dojo or training room, take off your hat and shoes, dispose of chewing gum, turn off cell phones and stop any other distracting practices that might interfere with Aikido training.
Visitors are also expected to observe these guidelines for conduct.
Before training, remove rings, watches, bracelets, earrings, chains, etc. to help prevent injury to yourself and to others.
For your safety and the safety of others, keep your fingernails and toenails short.
At the dojo, change from your street clothes into your training uniform, a dogi if possible. The practice of changing at the dojo will help you shed outside concerns and focus on Aikido training.
When coming onto or leaving the practice mat, bow to the front of the dojo. This expresses your intent to concentrate fully on Aikido training and provides an opportunity to remind yourself to be grateful for the opportunity to train.
Always begin and end your training with your partner by bowing to each other.
Move quickly to start training with your partner and to return to sitting once the instructor ends the technique.
Talking during class is not necessary, is impolite and interferes with the concentration of other students.
Discussion regarding Aikido can occur within the dojo or training room before or after class. Discussion not regarding Aikido should only occur outside the dojo or training room.
Students should refrain from talking other students through a technique. Aikido training is much more practice than discussion. Students needing assistance can watch more senior students or the instructor.
Students not participating in a technique should sit on the edge of the mat.
Students should sit down and pay close attention when the instructor is demonstrating a technique for them.
Once you begin a technique, finish the technique. Do not start over because it is not correct. Techniques will almost never be absolutely correct. Begin another technique only after completing your previous effort. Consider learning all the ways a technique is not before learning what it is.
Respect and help your training partner by providing a sincere attack. Giving a weak attack or a misdirected attack wastes your partner’s time and is disrespectful. Learning techniques without a sincere attack builds a false sense of security. Correct attacks build understanding of and help train in proper techniques. Attacks are techniques.
Adjust your attacks to fit the level of your training partner.
Never shout, curse, or become angry on the mat.
Keep your training uniform clean, and in good shape.
Students who have volunteered for certain responsibilities should ensure those responsibilities are met. For example, students responsible for the weapons should ensure the weapons are present in every class. If a student with a responsibility must miss a class, the student should arrange for another student to fulfill the responsibility.
Students have an obligation to learn.
Only begin setting up the mats once the third student arrives.
Treat the mats and other equipment with respect. Do not drop the mats. Place the mats down quietly.
At least two students should carry each mat.
Do not use your feet to move/adjust the mats. Use your hands only.
Do not use the weapons to help yourself stand up.
When returning a weapon to your partner, use two hands and ensure the blade is facing inward.
After training, leave the mats and room clean and organized.
Pay your monthly dues on time.
Preserve common-sense standards of decency and respect at all times.