Etiquette

Etiquette is as much a part of your training as is learning techniques. Standards of etiquette may vary from one dojo or organization to another, but the following guidelines are nearly universal.

* In most dojo, it is proper to bow when entering or leaving the mat.

* No shoes on the mat.

* Be on time for class. If you do happen to arrive late, join in quietly.

* Avoid leaning against the walls or sitting with your legs stretched out.

* Remove watches, rings and other jewelry before practice.

* Do not bring food, gum, or beverages onto the mat.

* Please keep your fingernails and toenails clean and cut short.

* Keep your training uniform clean, in good shape, and free of offensive odors.

* Please keep talking during class to a minimum. What conversation there is should be restricted to one topic - Aikido. It is particularly impolite to talk while the instructor is addressing the class.

* Do not engage in rough-housing or needless contests of strength during class.

About Bowing

It is common for people to ask about the practice of bowing in aikido. In particular, many people are concerned that bowing may have some religious significance. It does not. In Western culture, it is considered proper to shake hands when greeting someone for the first time, to say "please" when making a request, and to say "thank you" to express gratitude. In Japanese culture, bowing (at least partly) may fulfil all these functions.