Ki Stone Dojo

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

1. Bow to the Shomen (front of dojo) upon entering and leaving the dojo or mat. Also bow to the Sensei and the students when entering or leaving the mat area. This shows that you respect them and the place where you train.
2. Be on time for class. This shows you are serious about your training and the time you spend in the dojo. If you are late, wait to be invited on the mat 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 are to be removed upon entering the dojo and placed in the shoe rack. No jewelry or watches of any kind are to be worn on th mat area. This is a contact art involving grabbing, throwing, and falling techniques. 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 or walkway, emptying trash, etc. Every bit you do shows you care about your training.
6. No horseplay will be tolerated. Anyone who becomes disruptive or disregards the safety of other student of the class will be asked to leave.
7. 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.
8. Have respect for everyone in the dojo. Students must maintain a respectful attitude towards instructors, junior, and senior students. Have the respect and awareness for the level of ability your partner has. Keep in mind personal hygiene, this is a close quarter activity (trimmed nails, long hair tied back, etc). 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 on the mat from the Sensei. While on the mat Sensei will be addressed as "Sensei" and not by first name.
9. Have courtesy and self control. Follow any and all directions given by Sensei. Students are to pay attention to the instruction and the task at hand. Anyone disregarding these 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.
10. Remember, its all in the attitude...click here
11. Click for Terms and Phrases heard in the dojo