Following traditional forms of etiquette in the dojo is an essential aspect of our training and should be practiced with sincerity. One finds, if ones remain with Aikido for long, that Dojo Etiquette is not a set list of rules and regulations to follow, but rather a living attitude. Just as discipline is a tool to use only until we learn to love the thing that is good for us, so the following list is a basis upon which to build our awareness of right thinking and right acting in relation to others.

1. The Sensei is treated with respect at all times.
2. The Instructor is referred to as Sensei at all times, on and off the mat.
3. Never interrupt the class to question unnecessarily. If you must ask a question, wait until an appropriate moment.
4. Do not call out to or interrupt the Sensei while he/she is teaching.
5. There should never be conversation of any kind while the Sensei is demonstrating.
6. Never argue about a technique. If there is a problem that cannot be resolved, ask the Sensei for help.
7. Never interrupt another student’s training to ask assistance. Wait until the Sensei is available to help.
8. When receiving personal instruction, remain quiet until the Sensei has completed his explanation. Then bow.
9. When Sensei is teaching a point, do not attempt to move ahead to another point, thinking you know what is next.
10. The formal sitting position on the mat is seiza. If you have an injury, check with the Sensei, and/or if the Sensei suggests, you may sit cross legged, but do not sit with legs outstretched or lean against posts or walls, or lie down during class. Once in the dojo, you are here to train.
11. Never be idle during practice. You should be training or if necessary, seated formally awaiting your turn.
12. For all Assigned Instructors, attending all Ki, Kyu, and Dan tests (children and adults) is an essential part of your teaching responsibility. This gives moral support to the students, and allows you an over-view that you might otherwise miss.
13. Always respect the Sensei’s weapons located at the Shomen. Never use these weapons for your own training.
14. As a student, always arrive at the dojo with plenty of time to sign in, change into your gi, and report to the mat at least 15 minutes before class is to begin.
15. If you are late for class, wait at the side of the mat until the Sensei signals that you may join the class.
16. When handling weapons prior to the class, treat them with respect, and do not play with them.
17. If you go to train in another dojo, or another school of Aikido, do not attempt to impose your style of training upon them. Instead, try to grasp exactly what the Sensei is teaching.
18. No gum chewing or eating is allowed on the mat during training.
19. No rings, watches, or jewelry of any kind should be worn during practice.
20. If you are ill or over-tired, do not attempt to train in the dojo.
21. Your body and, in particular, your feet, must be very clean before you step onto the mat.
22. Always enter the dojo with an empty mind. If you think you know already, it will be difficult for you to learn.
23. Never come to train when you have ingested any type of drug or alcohol.
24. Any questions pertaining to training should be referred to the Chief Instructors.
25. A place of martial arts training should be kept spotless. If you see something that indicates otherwise, for example rubbish or dirt on the floor, don’t wait for someone else to correct it. This is part of your training.
26. If you are in the dojo, but not on the training mat, respect the teaching and stay quiet and pay attention.
27. Treat your training tools with respect. Your gi should always be clean and mended. Your ken, jo, and tanto, should be in good condition, and in their appropriate place when not in use.
28. There will be no smoking in the dojo.