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Dojo
Etiquette and Safety
Etiquette
and safety are closely related in aikido and the martial arts in general.
Aikido evolved from the martial arts of feudal Japan, techniques that were
designed to be dangerous, but by following a few basic guidelines the risk of
accident and injury can be minimised. Some are also for hygiene purposes, and
some are to create a pleasant training atmosphere.
Remove shoes, socks, all jewellery and watches before stepping onto the
matted area.
Please ensure mobile phones are switched off or on silent during the training
session
Make sure finger and toenails are kept short and clean as they can easily cut
people
When stepping onto or off the mat it is customary to rei (bow) to the mat
area. This serves the dual purpose of stopping people wandering on and off
the mat without thinking (improving safety), and it satisfies Japanese
tradition.
Try to arrive on time! Classes start promptly but if you do arrive late, i.e.
the class has begun, wait by the side of the mat for permission to enter the
mat area from the instructor.
At the start and end of a session there is a formal line up and rei, students
on one side of the mat and instructors on the other. You will be shown what
to do!
When a technique is being demonstrated, sit either in seiza or cross-legged.
Pay complete attention to the instructor when demonstrating, but feel free to
move to get a better view or to ask a question.
Always rei to your partner before and after practicing with them, it's just
polite.
Always stop when told.
Always stop if your partner taps out - this is one of the most important
rules.
Do not bring food or drink onto the mat.
Make sure you are in a generally clean and hygienic state - it sounds
patronising but it can be unpleasant as aikido is a contact sport.
Be aware of your surroundings, we have limited space!
Treat everyone on the mat with respect, do not use foul language.
Enjoy yourself! You'll pick up the routine quickly enough.
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