General Etiquette And Conduct

1. PLEASE BE PUNCTUAL. If you are unavoidably late, and the warm-ups are still in progress, quickly stand at the edge of the mats and WAIT until you are noticed and acknowledged before joining the warm-ups. If the class is already in session, perform a warm-up of your own off the mats, then follow the steps above.
2. LEAVING THE MATS DURING CLASS. Always let the Sensei know if you need to leave the mats.
3. ALWAYS BE ALERT WHILE ON THE MATS. Careless practice is dangerous and can cause injury. Always be aware of your surroundings.
4. BE ATTENTIVE. The proper way to sit during class is in seiza, the formal Japanese sitting posture. A crosslegged sitting position is acceptable if seiza becomes too uncomfortable. In any case, an attentive posture should be maintained at all times. Students should not slouch, lean against walls or sit with legs outstretched.
5. DO NOT TEACH FELLOW STUDENTS unless specifically asked to do so by the Sensei. If you need help during class, discreetly ask the instructor for his/her instruction.
6. FOLLOW THE TEACHER'S INSTRUCTIONS. For reasons of safety, respect and courtesy, it is essential that the teacher's instructions be followed exactly. Many Aikido techniques can be dangerous if not practice properly.
7. PRACTICE AT A SAFE PACE. Be sensitive to the physical limitations and experience level of your partner and never perform any exercise which you feel is too dangerous for your current physical or technical ability.
8. KEEP CONVERSATION TO A MINIMUM. In Aikido, like in other traditional martial arts, learning with the eyes and body is emphasized. Help each other by following the technique with the appropriate body movements rather than with words. If it is necessary to speak, do so in a low voice.
9. DO NOT WEAR JEWELLERY DURING PRACTICE.
10. DO NOT WEAR FOOTWEAR ON THE MATS. To help prevent dirt from being brought onto the training surface, please wear some kind of footwear when not on the mats.
11. PERSONAL HYGIENE. Cleanliness is a reflection of your attitude toward Aikido, your teacher and your fellow practitioners. Please keep your fingernails and toenails clean and short. Keep your uniform clean and wash it regularly.
12. IF YOU BECOME SICK, OVERTIRED OR INJURED. If you become unable to continue practice, let your partner know. INFORM THE SENSEI before leaving the mats. If you just need a short rest, move to the edge of the mats and sit quetly watching until you are ready to resume practice.
13. SPECIFIC MEDICAL PROBLEMS. If you have medical condition or previous injury that may affect your practice, notify the Sensei of this before class starts.