A dojo is a place where students are taught the benefits and disciplines of martial arts.  At the same time it improves their strength in body and character.  To accomplish this, certain behavior and standards must be adhered to:

1.  Bow to the Kamiza (front of dojo) upon entering and leaving the dojo and mat.  This is a tradition of showing respect to the founder of Aikido. When the instructor comes on the mat, they and the students bow towards the kamiza. The students then bow to the instructor, formally opening the class. The same is done for the end of class. When changing partners during a class, you should acknowledge both the partner you are leaving as well as your new partner with a bow. This shows that you respect them and the place where you train. Students should never sit on the mat with their backs to the kamiza, nor should they pass between the instructor and the kamiza.
2.  Be on time for class.This shows you are serious about your training and the time you spend in the dojo. Socializing is for before and after class. Students should assemble quietly at least five minutes before class is to begin. Students should line up in seiza and take this time to clear their minds and prepare themselves for practice. It is preferable that everyone in the dojo, students and spectators alike, be silent during this time. If you are late, it is proper to wait in seiza on the edge of the mat, to be invited to participate from the Sensei while class is in progress.
3.  Proper attire is a white judo or karate dogi (uniform).  These can be purchased on line, see the links page for suggested sites.  The dojo offers a few dressing rooms for changing.  Putting on your dogi helps one get into the proper mindset for class.  New students that don't have a dogi yet should wear a plain white t-shirt and sweats.  Arrive to class early and get suited up in a timely and orderly manner.
4.  Shoes and jewelry are not allowed.  Upon entering the dojo, shoes are to be removed and placed neatly in the shoe rack. No jewelry or watches of any kind are to be worn on the mat area! This is a contact art involving grabbing, throwing, and falling techniques.  Bulky or hanging jewlery is dangours for the individual and those trainning with them. Simple wedding bands/rings are acceptable.
5.  Help maintain the dojo. It is customary before class to clean the dojo. You can help by dusting, sweeping the mat area, walkway, and changing rooms. Picking up and emptying the trash, etc. Every bit you do shows you care about your training.
6.  Keep resistance to a minimum.  There is a level of cooperation in Aikido, especially when first beginning.  This is not a contest for winning, but an opportunity to see both sides of a situation.  In more advanced levels of our Aikido there will be a place to be  more aggressive.
7. Have respect for everyone in the dojo.  Students should conduct themselves with a responsible attitude towards instructors, junior, and senior students. Have the respect and awareness for the level of ability your partner has to help prevent injuries. Keep in mind personal hygiene, this is a close quarter activity (trimmed nails, long hair tied back, clean uniform, washed hands etc.).  While on the mat Sensei will be addressed as “Sensei” and not by first name.  
8.  Have courtesy and self control.   Don’t lie on the mat, lean against walls, sit with your legs outstretched or have food on the mat.   Follow any and all directions given by Sensei. Students are to pay attention to the instruction and the task at hand. Once engaged in practice, clear your mind of everything but the lessons given. Anyone who becomes disruptive or disregards dojo rules will be given one warning and if this behavior continues, they will be asked to leave the class until they can follow the established rules.
9.  You must have permission to leave the mat area. This is a safety issue and there are no exceptions. If you need to leave the mat during class, ask permission from the instructor first. Then if you are to return to class already in progress, wait to be invited back on the mat from Sensei.
10.  The way you conduct yourself outside the dojo is also important. Students should have a proper and respectful attitude toward yourself and others. Students should never do anything that could bring discredit to themselves.  Do not show your training, let your training show, it’s all in your attitude (click here).

Please go over and make sure that you understand each of these rules prior to training at the Ki Stone Dojo. If you have any physical or medical conditions,  inform the Sensei of them. If you have any further questions you can reach Guy Williams Sensei at 964-9675