This page contains a copy of the rules of Aikido Seikikai and is a guide to the required behavior expected in a tratidional dojo. It is not a complete listing of all of the rules. However, we will constantly update this page with useful information on the topic.
Aikido Seikikai dojos are traditional Aikido dojo. The instructors at the main dojo are shihan and professional instructors trained in Japan. The training is carried out according to the rules of a Japanese dojo. That is, when you are in our dojo, it is the same as if you were training in Japan.
We want your training with us to be fruitful and enjoyable. With this objective in mind, you will find below a sampling of the dojo rules that help to guarantee classes of the highest quality in a pleasant atmosphere.
It is suggested that each student read and meditate on these rules. They are for the benefit of all and represent the correct way to pursue your study of the art. There is no intent to insult anyone. If it seems to you that some of the rules are just common sense, understand that we have experienced circumstances in which such is not the case and we present these rules for the benefit of all. If some of the rules are already a part of your personality, observe them and take into account that there are people who lack the same understanding.
As already mentioned, these rules are only a partial exhibition of the rules of a traditional dojo and can be clarified, modified or interpreted by Seikikai and that such clarifications, modifications or interpretations will automatically become a part of the contract between the student and Aikido Seikikai Kenjutsu Jodo Seiki Ryu, S.C. (from here on also known as Seikikai) without the need to give each student a new copy of the rules and regulations. These changes may appear here (we will make every effort to post them here however, when announced in class, they will automatically become a part of the rules and regulations of Seikikai.
AL ENTRAR EL DOJO
PUNCTUALITY
Classes begin and end exactly according to the times indicated.
If you arrive late, go immediately to the locker room, change into your uniform and sit at the edge of the tatami. Wait until the sensei or instructor invites you onto the mat observing all of the etiquette related to entering the tatami.
Lack of punctuality is a serious problem. If you come late you disturb the entire class. Moreover it shows a lack of respect for the dojo, the teacher and the other students. Of course, there might be circumstances that conspire against your timely arrival. Even your family might be the cause. However, the principle cause is usually poor use of your time.
Sometimes we get up late, we wait until the last minute and there is almost always some delay in traffic that makes us later. Late arrival is normally due to poor planning and is a bad habit. 99% of the time the fault lies with the student.
Aikido teaches us the importance of developing a sense of rhythm, timing and punctuality. The teachings of Aikido are not limited to your time on the tatami. The teachings and philosophy must infiltrate in a positive way your whole life. If you are only looking for an exercise class you would be better off joining a gym or and aerobics class.
The policy of the dojo requires punctuality. If you get used to arriving late, you give the impression that your time is more valuable than that of the other students and the teachers. It is really a problem. Moreover, if you arrive even one second late to the class you break the rhythm of the class and will not receive credit for attendance. Your attendance is recorded with the goal of acquiring sufficient hours needed to test. You may benefit from the class but your time spent will not count toward your next test. This can lead to a situation in which you made all of the classes but lack sufficient credit for the exam because of chronic late attendance.
Regarding the classes themselves, this presents a problem. Our policy is that if no one arrives in time (or if only one person arrives on time) the class is cancelled. The rule is that on time arrival means that the student is on the tatami and ready to begin class. Time spent getting ready does not apply. In the case of those who use hakama, ready means that the hakama is tied correctly and the student is ready to begin. Tying your hakama during the initial opening of the class is not acceptable.
Remember, the sensei and the dojo are not there to conform to you. The agreement is that you, as a student, are there to change and to conform to the rules of the dojo.
REI - BOWING
In the dojo, bowing is more or less the equivalent of shaking hands. Making a bow can have a very deep significance o be less significant depending on the intent of the person doing it. It is an act of respect, no an act of worship.
In the dojo, everyone bows. It is not optional. If you can't bow, you can't be a part of the dojo. If someone bows to you, it is disrespectful not to return the bow. The exception is that if the sensei does not return your bow it is not intended as an insult; he may be busy.
There are strict rules governing when and how to bow. There a two types of bow. There is the standing bow (ritsurei) and there is the seated bow (zarei.) There are also differences related to how a man bows and how a woman bows.
RITSUREI
This bow is done standing. The feet are close to each other and the hands are at the sides of the legs (women place their hands on the front of the legs) with fingers extended and together. At this point one bows from the waist from 45 to 90 degrees depending on the social position of the person to whom you are bowing.
Your head must remain in the same relative position to your body when you bow. That is, you don't raise your eyes to watch the person to whom you are bowing. Also, you must keep your spine straight, not curved. If the person to whom you are bowing is of higher rank, you must bow a little lower.
Another detail is that when you bow, you must face the person directly. That is, you don't just incline your head a little to the side or simply nod your head. The bow must involve your whole body.
To do less makes you appear rude and uneducated.
ZAREI
This bow is only done from a seated position called "seiza" (that is seated on your knees) never from a fully seated position. It is not done from a chair or otherwise seated.
Also, do not allow your rear end to rise (for example the way Moslems bow.) You bow from the waist maintaining your rear end flat against your calves.
In zarei, the hands are on the top of the thighs and the back remains straight. From this position, the left hand slides toward the floor directly in front and then the right hand follows. Both hands form an open triangle with the tips of the thumbs touching and the tips of the index finger touching. You then perform the bow maintaining the back straight and aiming the nose at the triangle formed by the hands. You maintain this position for about 3 seconds. Do not bow so low so as to expose the nape of the neck. In any case, you do not raise up from the bow until the sensei has finished and begins to return to the upright position.
The hand movement of a woman doing zarei is to move the hands to the side of the leg and from there, extend them to the front as above. When returning to the upright position the movement is reversed (following the path along the side of the leg.)
There are two reasons why we don't look into the eyes when we bow. The first is that when we raise the eyes, we lose coordination of mind and body. It could be that you think that maintaining eye contact gives you the advantage in case of an attack. The truth is that you delay your reactions this way. The second reason is that when you continue watching the other person it is like saying, "I don't trust you", and not courteous and does not conform to the rules of ki. Remember also that Aikido is a gentleman's art and we do not think in terms of attack. We simply observe the rules of good conduct and politeness. The secret behind these rules protects us.
COURTESY IN THE DOJO
It may be that customs may vary from dojo to dojo. What follows is an exposition of what is expected of students in a traditional aikido dojo.
Never enter the dojo wearing a hat. When you enter the dojo you should perform ritsurei at the door, toward shomen and to the sensei or other ranking students. After removing your shoes go to the changing room and change into your uniform. When you return to the dojo bow again to enter the mat and do your warm ups. If you must leave the tatami let the teacher know and bow off the mat (zarei.) Simply leaving the mat shows a lack of respect.
If the class has already begun, enter the tatami quietly, sit in seiza and wait to be invited into the class. When you enter, walk behind the other students, never in front.
While waiting for classes to begin you can do warm ups or meditation until class begins. The teacher will enter the tatami from one side and performs zarei toward the shomen. From there he will go to the front of the class and perform zarei toward shomen (the class bows at the same time), turns toward the class and everyone does zarei. While performing this zarei the class says, "onegaeshimasu". When inviting another student to practice with you you must say, "onegaeshimasu", when you finish working together you must say, "domo arigato gozaimashita". In both cases you do ritsurei.
Whenever Sensei corrects your technique you must say, "domo arigato gozaimasu". If Sensei begins to talk, sit down immediately (unless Sensei says to remain standing) and listen carefully to what he says. Do not talk to your neighbor while he is explaining the techniques. You should immediately stop what you are doing and pay attention. Also, don't turn your back to Sensei and try to do the technique. Pay attention to what he is doing.
When leaving the tatami for the last time, sit in seiza and perform zarei toward shomen and toward Sensei. When leaving the dojo perform ritsurei.
SITTING AND STANDING
To sit in seiza from a standing position, maintain your back erect and slowly lower yourself to your left knee. From there, lower your right knee. Then sit. You must not use your hands when you sit or stand. You must also maintain you balance. To stand, do the same thing in reverse.
THE CLASSES
When entering the dojo perform zarei to the sensei. If possible the sensei will return your bow. If not, don't be offended. If the sensei is involved with something or if he is teaching the class, don't bother him. Every class deserves and receives total attention from the teacher. In no case should you simply enter the tatami to talk to the sensei while he is conducting the class. However, if there is an emergency, do whatever is necessary to let him know or talk to one of the higher ranking students. Also, never motion to the teacher (like saying, "Come here!"), It is considered rude.
Please attend your assigned class. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the class begins in order to change into your uniform, help with cleaning the dojo and the tatami and to do your warm ups.
If there are black belt classes, these are private (as well as some other classes.) You are not permitted to observe or participate without permission. You can ask for permission if you wish and the teachers will inform you of their decision. Moreover, participation in these classes does not guarantee that you will test for black belt or pass the test.
No person who is not a member may participate in any class. This includes parents or children of a student. No one who is seated in the observation area may interfere or talk to the students during class. If that person has a question, he may speak to one of the higher ranking students after the class. Do not attempt to distract the students or the teacher during a class. If you wish to talk to the teacher, make an appointment.
Only people invited by the sensei may participate in children's classes. Usually, only uchideshi are invited to attend these classes.
Everyone must observe the rules of the dojo at all times.
If any student falls on the tatami and gets hurt, he must move immediately to the side (out of harm's way.) It is dangerous to just lay there and is also a bother to the other students. Also, remaining prone on the tatami is dangerous to the person who is hurt.
Having mentioned this, it should also be noted that ALL STUDENTS should do everything possible such as maintaining proper distance from other students in order to avoid collisions and accidents.
During the class, if the teacher begins to speak, sit down and listen to his instructions if he is speaking to the entire class. If the teacher is speaking only to you or your aite you may remain standing.
In any case, if the sensei is giving you instructions, don't move. Observe carefully what he is teaching you. When he finishes giving you instructions try to practice what he has taught you. The student who receives the instruction must practice the movement at least four times (two times per side) in order to assimilate the new information. What is the value of the teacher taking the time to instruct you if you don't put it immediately in practice?
In the sword class, the custom is to remain standing unless the teacher tells you to sit.
If you are allowed to enter the class on a scholarship, you must maintain your eligibility by keeping your grades up in school as well as observing any other requirements of your agreement. If you do not observe the terms of your agreement, you might lose your scholarship.
If you are taking Aikido classes as a substitute for physical education classes in school, you must maintain your attendance (usually a minimum of 2 classes a week) and be current in your dues in order to receive a letter of attendance. Any failure to comply will result in termination of this agreement.
THE UNIFORM
Your uniform must always be clean.
Men cannot use a t-shirt under the uniform.
Women must use a white t-shirt under the uniform.
If you don't have a uniform you may use a jogging suit. You may not use a t-shirt. You may not wear shorts under any circumstances.
You may not use any type of shoe on the tatami (this rule applies to everyone who enters the tatami whether adult, child, baby or guest.
Everyone must take off their shoes upon entering the tatami.
You may not use socks on the tatami (except under certain circumstances.) Aikido practice is done barefooted.
Every man must take off his hat upon entering the dojo.
It should be noted that every student must wear a clean uniform and bathe regularly. We ask that you also use a deodorant.
You must keep your fingernails and toenails short (applies to both men and women.)
We do not allow the use of patches or logos of other schools on you uniform. the uniform is a white aikidogi. The student may have his name embroidered on the left shoulder of the uniform. You may use the Seikikai logo above your name (we have the pattern and logo in electronic format.) Below black belt the color for your entire logo is black. Black belt and above is gold. Only the shihan may use red. You must have the embroidery done at a shop specified by Seikikai.
If you are short on money or new to the dojo, you may use a jogging suit until you are able to afford the aikidogi.
JEWELRY
You may not use any jewelry. In particular earrings (whether man or woman.)
SAFETY
FALLS
Falls are basic. Learn them. Your progress as a student depends on becoming expert in falls. If you can do good falls you will be protected against injuries.
The student accepts complete responsibility for his own safety in the dojo. The teachers teach Aikido techniques as well as safe forms of taking a fall. Take advantage of these teachings and you will do well in your study of Aikido.
If a student should fall and get hurt, we insist that he move immediately to the side (or off the tatami.) It is not right to bother the other students or to call attention to yourself. Moreover, laying on the mat during practice presents a danger not only to the person injured but also to the other students.
Having mentioned this, it should also be noted that ALL STUDENTS should do everything possible such as maintaining proper distance from other students in order to avoid collisions and accidents.
CHILDREN
Parents! If you want your child to receive the best from their Aikido training, make sure that they attend all of the classes without fail. The instruction is progressive. Your children will learn not only the techniques of Aikido but also techniques that can be applied to their daily life that will help them to live in harmony with others.
Another important point is to make sure that you get your children to class on time. That is they must arrive 5 - 10 minutes before the start of class. On time means that they are on the tatami ready for class when it begins. If they arrive late, they will not be permitted to enter class.
The training your child receives in the dojo can be equally important to that received in school. Why? Because in the dojo, your child receives training that is no longer available in schools. We teach them ideas like respect for legitimate authority, respect for elders and to be good citizens. We also demand attention to their school studies. Aikido is a life style that can have a positive effect in every area of life. Let us share with your children teachings that can serve them well during their entire lives.
It is our pleasure to teach your children but please do not interrupt the class. If your child has behavioral problems at home or in school, we are here to help you. Please don't stop bringing your child to classes as a punishment. This is counter productive and will delay his progress not only in Aikido but also in other areas of life. We are here to help you. Feel free to talk to the teachers to arrange a way in which we can reinforce the values you wish to instill. (Be sure to follow through with the same values at home.)
IN CASE OF ILLNESS
If you get sick and it is contagious, please stay home. We have to take into account the health of all of the students and teachers and it is just wrong to infect others unnecessarily.
If you suffer some form of injury (for example, a broken bone) we suggest that you attend classes in order to observe. Occasionally observing the classes can be of great value. However, if you are unable to participate you will not fall so far behind if you keep up your attendance even if only to observe.
HOW TO RELATE TO THE SENSEI
Please do not enter Sensei's house without being invited.
If you wish to visit with the teachers, make an appointment. Unexpected visits can disturb not only the sensei but also the training of the uchideshi, Sensei's private training or some other project in which the teachers may be involved. It is preferable to make an appointment with the sensei at least a day in advance. If you do show up unannounced, it may not be possible to talk to the sensei.
In Spanish, Japanese or any other language that makes the distinction, you may not address the sensei in the familiar form.
When addressing the sensei you should always refer to him as "Sensei". It is not appropriate to use his name or family name in or outside of the dojo. The correct form of address is: "(last name) Sensei".
It is not necessary to shake the sensei's hand. It is preferable to bow.
If the teacher is seated in seiza, do likewise and bow. It is incorrect to remain standing over the teacher. This rule also applies when dealing with other students.
TESTING
No one may test unless dues or other financial obligations to the dojo are current. Also, regular attendance for at least the previous four months before the exam.
If, for any reason, you lose your membership, you will be required to either make up all of the payments missed or re-join the dojo. A requirement of re-joining the dojo may be that you make up all missed payments plus back-charges.
The sensei decide who will test. If, for whatever reason you can't test on the day of the exam, you must let the teacher know in advance. Failure to attend on your assigned day may result in loss of testing privilege for 6 months to a year or more.
The cost of the exam must be paid BEFORE THE TEST. It is the responsibility of the student to make sure he pays the person responsible for receiving the payments.
All students are required to attend the examinations and in full uniform. This applies even to those who are not testing. Failure to comply may result in suspension of future testing privileges. If you absolutely cannot attend, clear it with the teachers in advance. There should be 100% attendance at all exams. Not attending shows a lack of respect and appreciation not only for the teachers but also for your fellow students. You should be interested in the progress of all of the students. Aikido is not an art of selfishness.
Related to testing; Seikikai recommends paying a little extra each month toward the cost of your exam (or even for uniforms, etc.) We have a special fund for this and it is much less painful to pay an extra 20 or 50 pesos a month. The cost of each exam varies and, in the case of sword examinations can be quite expensive. An added advantage to paying in advance is that this money can be returned to the student in case of need or in case the student can't test. Interest does not accrue.
School age students. We want to cooperate with your parents. So, if you keep up your grades in school, and your parents agree, you will be able to test. If you don't keep up your grades, you will have to wait until the next test. The same rules will apply.
Your ability to take an exam depends on various factors such as, your progress in the art, your falls, how you relate to the other students and with the sensei, how you relate to people outside the dojo and your class attendance. It is essential that you arrive on time and that you be ready for class when it begins. If you come late, even if it is just one second late, you will not receive credit for the class. Punctuality counts!
DOJO MAINTENANCE
The responsibility for keeping the dojo clean rests with all of the students. This means ALL of the students. After each class the students must completely clean the dojo. This includes sweeping, mopping the tatami and the floor, dusting, cleaning the windows and maintaining the bathrooms clean, etc.
If something is out of place, put it in its place (the bokken, jo, a photo that is crooked, trash on the floor, etc.)
If something is missing (for example, toilet paper in the bathroom) look for more and hang it.
The uchideshi are expected to arrive an hour before the start of each class to clean and perhaps to receive special training.
GENERAL CLEANING
This is a topic that affects us all. We have been asked why is it that we don't just hire someone to do the cleaning in the dojo? The reason is simple; cleaning is a part of the student's training and responsibility. It is a part of the discipline. There is no one who is above participating in cleaning the dojo.
This does not simply apply to cleaning the tatami. Aside from this it is the student's responsibility to sweep, clean windows, clean the bathroom and dressing area. It is even necessary to pick up small pieces of trash from the tatami. It is the student's responsibility to sweep the sidewalks and street in front of the dojo. Sometimes it is necessary to paint. Basically one has to be tuned in to the necessities of the dojo at all times. If something is out of place it must be returned.
The bathroom. Don't leave the bathroom dirty. Think of others and of the sensei. Only a spoiled child uses the bathroom and leaves it for others to clean up. A responsible student leaves it clean so as not to inconvenience the next person. It is also a question of health.
DUES
Each dojo or teacher may have their own way of dealing with dues. We offer this information so that you will have an idea of how Seikikai manages dues.
Dues must be paid the first class of each month. This means the first class offered, not the first class you attend. Five days after your due date, you will be assessed a 20 peso late charge.
If you can't attend classes in the next month, we accept payment in advance. It is recommended that you pay in advance for classes in months like December so as to avoid losing your membership.
If you are late in making your dues payment, you will not be allowed to participate in classes until you are current.
If you are 15 days or more late, you may lose testing privileges unless you have made a previous arrangement.
Payments should not be made directly to the sensei in cash. Find the person in charge of receiving payments. If this person is not available, find the teacher and give him your payment in cash in an envelope with your name written on it. We do not provide envelopes. Pay with exact change.
Your due date is the date on which you should make your payment. Most students observe their assigned date of payment and we thank them. However, there are some students who do not. Our policy is that if your date of payment has passed, you cannot enter the tatami until you pay. Period. If you need to change your date of payment, you can pay the difference (usually 15 days of dues.)
If you do not pay your dues on the due date, a late fee applies.
If you cannot pay for some reason, make an arrangement with us. It is unacceptable for you to stop paying without giving us notice and an acceptable reason. Not informing us can lead to the cancellation of your contract with Seikikai. If this occurs you may be required to pay all of the past months plus back charges plus a new membership fee (currently 200 pesos) and a new level of dues based on the current new member rate.
The agreement with Seikikai is not limited in duration. That is to say that dues must be paid each month, on time in order to maintain your membership. This rule applies especially in December and January. Please do not ask us to absorb the cost of your Christmas, birthday or other expense.
To maintain your good standing with Seikikai, view your dues payments the same way you view your house payment or car payment. You don't miss these payments. Don't miss your dues payment. We don't lend money. Using your dues money for another purpose is like using someone else's money without asking.
Seikikai maintains the right to cancel or suspend any agreement for failure to pay or for other cause.
In all cases, if there are uchideshi, they receive all payments and make all arrangements (subject to sensei's approval) regarding payments, extensions, etc. If there is any question, the uchideshi will clear it with the sensei. Sensei's responsibility is to teach, no be an accountant.
If you don't pay your dues on the due date, you may not participate in classes.
If your due date falls on a day when there is no class, it is postponed until the next class day, not till the next day you attend. If your day of payment falls in the midst of a holiday, we recommend that you pay at the end of the previous month to avoid missing your due date.
If your payment is not made in the same week it becomes due, you may have to pay a 50 peso fine.
If you cannot pay for some reason, make an arrangement with us. It is unacceptable for you to stop paying without giving us notice and an acceptable reason. Not informing us can lead to the cancellation of your contract with Seikikai. If this occurs you may be required to pay all of the past months plus back charges plus a new membership fee (currently 200 pesos) and a new level of dues based on the current new member rate.
If you have a problem making your payment on time, you can speak with one of the uchideshi to ask for an extension. Seikikai reserves the right to charge a back charge in this case.
If your payment is a month or more late, Your membership may be cancelled. If this occurs you may be required to pay all of the past months plus back charges plus a new membership fee (currently 200 pesos) and a new level of dues based on the current new member rate.
It is possible for Seikikai to suspend your membership (for a pre-determined amount of time) in case of an emergency. However, you must ask in advance of your due date and Seikikai reserves the right to accept or reject your request. If accepted you may be required to pay a maintenance fee in advance to cover the period of suspension.)
All special events and functions must be paid for in advance. It is not acceptable to pay after the event.
YOUR MEMBERSHIP
Your membership can be managed in various ways. Costs and terms may vary depending on your association (whether you are a regular student or a special student) or according to the state or country in which you are a member.
Classes are conducted in Spanish, English or Japanese. If you do not speak or understand one of these languages, we will assist you as much as possible.
Seikikai reserves the right to accept or reject any membership. Moreover, anyone can be dismissed for any cause whatsoever.
Every student or parent of guardian must sign for and accept all of these rules. As already mentioned, the student or guardian accepts that these rules are only a partial exhibition of the rules of a traditional dojo and can be clarified, modified or interpreted by Seikikai and that such clarifications, modifications or interpretations will automatically become a part of the contract between the student and Seikikai without the need to give each student a new copy of the rules and regulations. These changes may appear here (we will make every effort to post them here however, when announced in class, they will automatically become a part of the rules and regulations of Seikikai.
If necessary, Seikikai can, at its option, make exceptions according to necessity. Such exception in the case of any individual does not obligate Seikikai to make the same exception in the case of any or all students.