What to Expect
Class Structure...
Before classes start, students typically begin warming themselves up on or off the mat. Once the instructor is ready to begin class, the students will line-up on the mat and take the formal kneeling (seiza) position.
The instructor will then take seiza facing the front of the dojo, raise his/her hands and bow to the floor. At the same time, the students will also bow to the front. The instructor will then turn on his/her knees to face the students, and everybody will bow while saying, “Ōnei gāshi masu." (oh - nye ga-she mas), which translates as “I wish to learn from you.”
Classes begin with about 10 minutes of stretching and warm-up exercises designed to get the blood flowing and loosen up the muscles and joints. Once the class is sufficiently warmed-up, the instructor will go into the day’s techniques and practice sessions.
In between each technique, the class will take seiza wherever they are, face the instructor and watch as he or she instructs.
Very few injuries occur during our classes. But, like any type of exercise – let alone a martial art – injuries and accidents can happen. If you have a minor cut, scrape or burn (mat burns do happen), we have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand. We also have compression bandages and ice packs on hand to handle minor sprains, bruises or similar injuries in the off chance they occur.
At the end of class, the instructor will tell the students to fix their gi and line-up. The students turn to the back of the dojo, arrange their uniforms and belts and line-up in seiza. The instructor and students will then perform a courtesy bow ritual similar to the one that started class. The exception is that when the instructor and students bow to each other, they say, "Dōmō ārigatō gozai māshita" (do-mo ah-ree-gah-toe go-zee mas’ta"), which means "thank you very much."
Finally, before anybody leaves the mat, the instructor and students will bow to each other individually.
Dojo Courtesy…
At the Florida Aikido Center, we practice traditional Japanese dojo etiquette. You will quickly pick up on many of the customs and courtesies we use during your training, so there’s no need to feel intimidated or put off.
It is important to note that the rituals and etiquette we practice are not religious in nature, even though it may appear so to first time observers. The acts of bowing, kneeling and pressing of hands (as well as formal titles like “sensei”, "sempai" or “shihan”) are simply signs of respect.
When entering or exiting the mat, face the front wall of the dojo and bow from the hip. This is a traditional sign of respect, recognizing the dojo as a place of learning and honoring those individuals whose hard work built it.
If during class, you need to get a drink of water or need to tend to an injury, you may have to leave the mat. This is perfectly okay, simply inform the instructor before you do so. However, do not leave or enter while the instructor is demonstrating a technique, and be sure to bow when stepping on or off the mat.
Please turn off your cell phone before class begins unless you have need of it for important family or work-related purposes.
If you are late for class, come in and take seiza (formal kneeling position) at the side of the mat when you are ready to join the other students. Once the instructor invites you in, step onto the mat, bow to the front of the dojo and follow the instructor’s directions.
Aikido students should ensure their finger and toenails are properly trimmed and remove all jewelry prior to class. This is as much an aspect of courtesy as it is a major safety factor.
Never go on the mat with shoes on unless told to do so by your instructor.