Etiquette

• Be in the dojo one-half hour before the scheduled beginning of class. Punctuality is important. This will allow time enough to make the transition from street to dojo smoother. Be sure to sign the attendance sheet at this time.

• If the mats need to be assembled they should be set-up during this transition time.

• When stepping onto the mat, students Ritsurei (standing bow) in the direction of the Kamiza (the "Upper Seat" where the picture of Ueshiba O'Sensei's picture is located.) This tradition shows respect to the founder of Aikido.

• Five minutes before class begins, students should sit quietly in seiza (kneeling) facing the shomen (front). The senior most student or assistant instructor sits in the joseki (right most) position also facing front. This time is used for meditation and for preparation for the training to follow.

• The instructor sits in seiza in front of the class, facing shomen. The instructor initiates a bow, and the assistant instructor calls out, "Shomen ni rei!" (bow to the front). All bow.

• The instructor turns to face the class, and initiates a bow. The assistant calls out, "Sensei ni rei!" (bow to the instructor). All bow, saying, "Onegaishimasu" (please share). The class begins.

• If you are late to class, change quickly, bow upon entering the practice area, and sit quietly in seiza along the side of the mat until the instructor gives you permission to join the class.
• While training, it is important to try to leave outside pressures and concerns off the mat. This way your mind is clear and open to instruction. Otherwise you will find it nearly impossible for your mind and body to work in harmony.
• While practicing with your partner remember that you are not in competition with them. This is not a fight. You and your partner are working together to learn the techniques. Keep the abilities and knowledge level of your partner in mind when applying a technique. This will aid in avoiding injuries.
• If you have questions please wait until the instructor comes to you. Do not call out to the instructor. After the instructor has answered your question, bow and say, "Arigato, Sensei" (Thank you.)
• When the instructor claps twice, all students should bow to their partners, thank them, and sit quietly in seiza facing shomen and wait for instructions.
• If the instructor calls upon you to assist in a demonstration, bow to the instructor before standing up then bow before the technique is performed. When the demonstration is complete, bow to the instructor and return to seiza.

• When the instructor is finished giving instructions, bow before returning to practice.
   

  If you need to be excused from the mat for any reason, bow and thank your partner and then ask your instructor's permission to leave the mat. Thank you, now - Let us talk about the end of class.

  End of Class

• The instructor will signal the end of class (usually by clapping twice). All students bow to their partners and thank them and quietly sit in seiza facing shomen. The instructor will sit facing the students and lead the class in breathing exercises or meditation.

• When finished, the instructor turns toward shomen and initiates a bow, as the assistant calls out, "Shomen ne rei." All bow.

• The instructor turns toward the students and initiates a bow, as the assistant calls out "Sensei ne rei!" All bow saying, "Domo arigato gozaimashita, Sensei" (Thank you very much teacher.)

• The instructor leaves the mat.

• The assistant instructor or senior student moves forward in shikko and turns to face the rest of the class. The assistant instructor calls out, "Rei!" (bow). The assistant and the students bow to each other, as the students say, "Arigato gozaimashita."

• Remember to bow to the kamiza before leaving the mat.