Equipment

• Each student must provide his or her own gi (uniform) and zori (sandals or other footwear).
• The student should not be barefoot EXCEPT on the mat. No footwear of any kind should be worn on the mat. As well, ALL jewellery should be removed before practising.
• A trial class can be taken in any loose clothing without buckles that covers the knees and elbows, such as a sweatsuit.
• If you wish to participate in the weapons class, you must provide your own bokken (wooden sword), jo (short staff) and tanto (wooden knife). The dojo usually has these items for sale, or can arrange to procure them for you.
• Uniforms are available for purchase from the dojo, please ask Sensei for current pricing and availability of sizes.

Etiquette

The traditional etiquette of Japanese martial arts will be observed in our dojo at all times.

Bowing

• Bowing is an important part of Budo etiquette. Please note that this bowing has no religious significance.
  
• Students should perform a standing bow when they walk in the dojo door.
  
• They should perform a seated bow when first stepping on the mat.
  
• When the students line up as class begins, they should perform a seated bow of respect in unison to the portrait of O-Sensei at the front of the room, and then to the instructor.
  
• They should perform a seated bow to each partner, before and after practising with them.
  
• At the end of class, it is time for another seated bow in unison to the portrait of O-Sensei, and then to the instructor.
  
• After class, it is customary to perform a seated bow to each person you have practiced with and thank them.
  

Silence

Aikido cannot be learned with the mouth. It is important to practice as intensely as you can at your level, so the distraction to your own partner and to nearby students caused by speaking should be avoided where possible. Don’t speak unless it is necessary or you are asking a question of the instructor. And please don’t speak while the instructor is speaking.

Sensei

Sensei basically means “teacher,” but it is also a polite form of address. At the very least, the person instructing the class should be addressed as Sensei and his or her instructions noted carefully and followed to the best of your ability.