Aikido Etiquette & Dojo Guidelines
Aikido etiquette is an important part of training. It helps create a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for everyone at Aikido of Westchester.
The customs of the dojo—from bowing and caring for your uniform to training safely with your partners—may take a little time to learn. Don't worry if you don't remember everything at first. With practice, these habits will become a natural part of your Aikido training.
The following guidelines will help you understand what to expect and how we practice together.
RULES OF PRACTICE
These Aikido dojo guidelines help maintain a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for everyone. As you continue training, these customs will become a natural part of your practice.
Entering and leaving the dojo
Bow toward the Kamiza and the founder's photograph when entering and leaving the dojo, and when stepping on or off the mat.Beginning and ending class
Classes begin and end with a traditional ceremony. Please participate whenever possible. If you arrive late, sit quietly beside the mat until Sensei signals you to join the class. Bow as you step onto the mat, taking care not to disrupt the class.Gi and training equipment
Keep your practice uniform (gi) clean, properly fitted, and in good repair. The left lapel should fully cover the right, and your gi top should adequately cover your abdomen and chest. If your gi opens too widely, wear a T-shirt or sports bra underneath. Wash your gi after each practice, especially during hot weather, and never go more than two practices without washing it. Keep all weapons in good condition and return them to their proper place after use.Personal safety
Keep any open wounds securely covered with medical tape. Remove all jewelry before practice.Sitting on the mat
The proper way to sit on the mat is in seiza. If you have a knee injury, you may sit cross-legged. Never sit with your legs stretched out or lean against walls or posts. Remain attentive and aware of your surroundings.Leaving the mat
Do not leave the mat during practice without first asking Sensei's permission.During demonstrations and instruction
Sit attentively in seiza while Sensei demonstrates a technique. After the demonstration, bow to Sensei and then to your partner before beginning practice. When receiving individual instruction, watch attentively and remain in seiza. Bow to Sensei when the instruction is finished.Stay engaged in practice
Do not stand around idly on the mat. Practice when you can, or watch attentively while waiting for your turn.When a technique ends
When Sensei signals the end of a technique, stop immediately, bow to your partner, and return to the line.Practice with respect
If you know a technique and your partner does not, you may help guide them through it, but do not take on the role of instructor. We are here to practice together, not to impose our ideas on others. Respect and learn from those with more experience.When you're unsure
If you are unsure what to do, ask a senior student or follow their lead. There is a lot of dojo etiquette to learn at first, so don't worry if you don't remember everything. These customs will become natural with practice. Please accept corrections to your etiquette with the same openness you bring to learning Aikido.Train safely
Always train within your partner's ability. Never practice in a way that could injure your partner. Both partners are responsible for maintaining a safe practice.Be aware of your surroundings
Pay attention to those around you when taking ukemi (falling) or throwing your partner. Develop awareness in all directions as part of your Aikido training.Keep the dojo clean
Everyone is responsible for keeping the dojo clean. The practice area should be swept and wiped after each class. Please take the initiative to help—don't wait for Sensei to ask.Membership dues
Monthly dues are due at the beginning of each month. The dojo depends on everyone's timely contributions to maintain the space and continue providing a safe, welcoming place to practice.