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