Etiquette

Etiquette is the courtesy you extend to your fellow practitioners and to yourself. The manner in which you carry yourself reflects on the entire dojo and is key to fostering a respectful community. Below is a brief list of some of the most common points to observe. Please note that there are many and subtle points not captured here and you should refer to your sempai:

• NEVER walk on the mat with shoes. Both as part of many Asian cultures and because we will often have to lay our faces on the mat, wearing shoes on the mat is a great offense.

• When you enter and leave any dojo, you should always bow from the waist to the shomen (the head of the mat where the portrait of O’Sensei normally resides). This is a sign of respect to the school and its lineage.

• Before every practice, everyone must partake in sweeping and cleaning the mats. This is the practice of Misogi – or purification. It provides a moment to set aside ego and negativity. It shows respect to our fellow practitioners by allowing us to train on a clean surface.

• Class will begin with a seated formal bow led by the teacher of the class. This is called “Rei” and in our tradition it is a series: one bow, clap twice, and bow again. Please stay bowed until the sensei says Onegaishimasu (literally “I request” or “please”) to begin the class. At the end of class the bowing is repeated, although the sensei will say Domo Arigato Gozaimashita (a formal “Thank you”).

• If you arrive late, dress out and wait quietly at the edge of the mat for the instructor to notice you. He or she will call you onto the mat when it will be least disruptive to the class. Then do a formal bow to the shomen.

• The instructor is always addressed as Sensei. Bow to the Sensei before and after practice, and whenever you receive personal instruction. The correct response to the sensei is “Hai”. This is an acknowledgement that you heard and understand the instruction.

• Please sit quietly in seiza (on your knees) or cross-legged (if you cannot sit in seiza) and maintain a straight posture when the sensei is demonstrating to the class. There is no talking when the sensei is teaching.

• Show respect to your partners by requesting that they practice with you and by thanking them afterward.

• Personal hygiene is a must. Strong colognes and perfumes should not be worn; and remember that make-up can rub off on other people’s uniforms. Please wear clean uniforms and keep fingernails trimmed. Remove jewelry, and if you have long hair, please tie it back in a ponytail or braid.

Remember Safety is our 1st Priority. If anyone acts in an abusive or reckless manner they will be removed.