- It is the responsibility of each student to cooperate in creating an atmosphere of
respect. Respect the Dojo, respect your training tools and respect each other.
- Always bow when stepping on or off the mat in the direction of the joseki and
the pictures of the founders.
- Your Gi should be clean and mended.
- Class is open and closed with a ceremony. It is important to participate in the
ceremony. If you are late, you should be seated beside the mat until the senior
instructor signals for you to join the class. It is important not to disrupt the
class in doing so.
- There are only two proper ways to sit on the mat Seiza and Ama. Never sit
with your legs outstretched and always remain attentive.
- Do not leave the mat during practice, without first receiving permission from
the senior instructor. This includes going to the bathroom,, getting water,
receiving a phone call, etc.
- During the class when the instructor is demonstrating a technique, you should
stand quietly and pay strict attention.
- Never stand around idly on the mat; you should be practicing or waiting your
turn to practice.
- Keep talking to a minimum
- There should be no eating, drinking, smoking or gum chewing on the mat
- No jewelry or make-up should be worn during practice. Finger and toenails
should be neatly trimmed.
- Long hair should be placed in a ponytail.
- If you know the technique being studied and you are working with someone
who does not, you may lead the person through the technique, but do not
assume the role of the instructor.
- It is EVERYONE’S responsibility to keep the Dojo clean and the mat swept
before and after each class.
- Street shoes are not allowed in the locker room or past entry area. All shoes
should be neatly lined up on the rack at the entrance to the Dojo.
- If you are unsure of what to do in a particular situation, ask a senior student or
the instructor.
Dojo Etiquette