Basic Etiquette

Jo Training Etiquette is an important part of the discipline. Aikido has its roots in Japanese culture; as part of the heritage of the art, Japanese terminology is used and certain aspects of Japanese etiquette are adhered to in the dojo. It is not too complex and students are not expected to perform faultlessly at first; just follow the senior students when in doubt.

Bowing (rei) is used to show respect, gratitude or apology.
Bow from the sitting position (seiza):

when first stepping onto the mat
to O-Sensei at the formal beginning of class
to O-Sensei and the instructor in turn (whole class)
to your partner when beginning and after practicing a technique
after you accidentally bump someone or make a mistake in practice
to O-Sensei when leaving the mats

The bow is usually accompanied by one of the following expressions:

Onegai shimasu (pronounced oh-neh-guy-she-mass): roughly meaning "please", as in "please instruct me" or "please practice with me"; said to sensei at the beginning of class, after he gives instruction for a technique, and to ask a partner to practice with you.
Doumo arigatou gozaimashita (pronounced doh-mo-ah-ree-ga-toh go-zai-mash-tah): meaning "thank you very much"; said to your partner after practicing a technique and to sensei at the end of practice.
Sumimasen (pronounced soo-mi-ma-senn): meaning "I'm sorry"; after a bump or mistake.

Bow from standing whenever you enter or leave the dojo.

Warm up Be changed and on the mats before the posted practice times. When sensei begins the class, students line up in seiza (sitting), with the highest ranked person at the right-hand end of the line; all other students may line up in random order. If you arrive late, sit at the edge of the mats, bow to O-Sensei, wait in seiza until sensei gives you permission to join the class, then bow to sensei and begin practice. If you have to leave the mats during class, ask sensei for permission.

After a technique has been practiced, sensei will clap to signal the end of that technique; quickly line up sitting in seiza (order of rank does not matter) to watch the demonstration of the next technique. During class, discussion should be minimal; try to learn through senses other than hearing. Watch closely, try to get the feel of the movements, ask only when you do not understand. If it is necessary to speak, do so quietly.

Personal hygiene reflects your attitude and respect for yourself, the discipline, and your fellow practitioners. Keep your dogi and yourself clean. Fingernails and toenails must be kept short. Long hair should be tied back. All jewellery must be removed. No shoes are allowed on the mats; please remove your shoes and leave them outside the door.