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AIKIDO SHOHEIJUKU / VANCOUVER SHOMONKAI

AIKIDO

Dojo Etiquette

  • Proper observance of etiquette is as important to our training as learning physical techniques. Please follow the guidelines below to maximize everyone′s enjoyment of Aikido:

  • The dojo (practice hall) is a formal place where all participants must wear a dogi (judo-gi or karate-gi), the standard uniform for all aikido students

  • Wash your dogi regularly to keep it clean and in good shape

  • Remove your watch, ring, jewelry and shoes before the practice begins

  • Keep your finger and toe nails cut short to avoid injury to others

  • No food or beverages are permitted in the dojo, especially during keiko (class)

  • When entering the dojo, it is proper to bow in seiza (in a kneeling position) in the direction of O Sensei's picture or towards the front of the dojo, and then towards people already in the dojo saying ohayou gozaimasu (Good morning), konnichiwa (Good afternoon), or konbanwa (Good evening) as appropriate

  • Please come early for your keiko and help lay out and clean the mat

  • If you arrive late for keiko, bow quietly and join the warm-up in progress or warm-up quietly by yourself on the edge of the mat

  • If you wish to leave the mat or dojo for any reason during keiko, ask the instructor

  • When the instructor is showing a technique to you, watch and listen in seiza

  • If you are waiting for your turn as the third person of a group of three, watch in seiza

  • Do not lean against the walls or sprawl with your legs stretched out, sit in seiza or cross-legged

  • Keep talking during class to a minimum, all talk should be restricted to Aikido

  • Promptly follow the directives of the instructor, do not keep the rest of the class waiting

  • Do not engage in rough-housing or needless contests of strength during keiko

  • You should also bow when leaving the dojo, saying arigatou gozaimashita (Thank you)

  • Please stay after the lesson to clean and put away the mat

  • Remember that you are here to learn, and not to gratify your ego, a sincere attitude of receptivity and humility is best.

  • Pay your monthly dues in the beginning of each month - if, for any reason, you are unable to pay your dues on time, talk with the person in charge of dues collection.

  • Show respect for Aikido, for yourself and for others at all times

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