Aikido Etiquette

Learning Aikido would become easy and interesting, if the learners are aware about all the etiquettes they need to follow while they are engaged in learning this discipline. One the key etiquettes of Aikido include an unwavering focus to observe quietly, both the instructor and other learners during their practice. Read on to get acquainted with the essential etiquettes of Aikido.

Arriving Etiquettes

First of all read about the arriving at the Aikido Dojo etiquettes:

1. Aikido students should arrive on time to learn Aikido.
2. Students should arrive in clean uniform and with tidy hands and feet.
3. While entering the dojo, students must do a standing bow to Morihei Ueshiba’s picture placed on the altar.
4. Aikido students should remove the shoes and place them in a row.
5. Students should wash their hands and be quiet to respect the instructor.

On The Mat Etiquettes

Read about on the mat etiquettes that students should do before an Aikido class:
1. Students learning aikido should do a formal kneeling bow in the direction of the shomen while entering or exiting the mat.
2. Students should warm up and play without shouting and then should assemble in a neat line before the class.
3. Students should sit in a kneeling position quietly while meditating and awaiting for the instructor’s arrival on the mat.

Practicing Aikido Etiquettes
Now, read about the proper etiquettes for practicing Aikido:
1. Students should obey their instructor as a single mistake can lead to death or life.
2. Practice every time with feelings of pleasure.
3. Students should no reveal Aikido techniques to the general public.
4. Students should try not to overstrain themselves, as Aikido means relaxing body and mind.

Other Aikido Etiquettes
Here is a list of other important Aikido etiquettes:

• * Watches, rings and other jewelry apart from Aikido jewelry should be removed before practicing Aikido.
• * Students must cut their finger and toe nails short.
• * Students should try to observe and learn from the instructor quietly.
• * Useless contests and fights should be avoided.
• * Students should learn Aikido without any attitude.
• * No food or beverages are allowed in the Dojo.
• * Students should be decent enough to obey the instructor at all times.
• * If you are late ask the instructor for permission before entering the Dojo.
• * Students should not change the clothes on the mat.
• * Mat should be cleaned before each Aikido class.
• * Students must address the instructor as Sensei in the Dojo.
• * After receiving the instructions from the instructor, students should bow and say thank you to the Sensei.
• * Try to talk minimum during Aikido class.
• * Students should avoid sitting with their back towards the picture of O Sensei.
• * Do a standing bow while leaving and entering the Dojo.
• * When the instructor teaches in pairs, it is better for others to stand and watch out.
• * If you find some movements difficult, it is better to observe others who are doing it better and improve your own movement.

Learn the above mentioned Aikido etiquettes to make your learning fun and useful.