GYODOKAN JUNIORS

Welcome to Gyodokan! Here’s how we show respect and train safely together. It may seem like a lot to remember at first, but soon it will feel natural.

🥋 Dojo Greetings

At the start of class, we bow and say:
👉 “Onegai shimasu!” — Please teach me / Let’s train together.

At the end of class, we bow and say:
👉 “Dōmo arigatō gozaimashita.” — Thank you very much.

DOJO ETIQUETTE

  1. 🙏 Respect your teachers
    Always call your teachers “Sensei”or name + Sensei (for example, Cathy Sensei).
  1. 🥋 Look sharp and ready
    Wear a clean uniform with your belt tied properly before class.
  2. ⏰ Be on time
    Arrive a few minutes early so you can get ready and bow in together.
  3. 🧹 Help out
    Help to set up the mats before class and tidy up or clean after. If you know the etiquette, help others who might be new!
  4. 🚪 Stay on the mat
    Only leave if it’s an emergency or if Sensei gives permission. Use the toilet and drink water before and after class.
  5. 🪷 Sit and listen
    During demonstrations, sit in seiza (kneeling) and please don’t talk. Watch carefully so you can learn.
  6. 💬 Ask politely
    It’s good to ask questions – just wait until Sensei finishes showing the technique.
  7. 🤝 Train kindly and safely
    Be gentle, kind, and respectful to your partners. Everyone learns at their own pace.
  8. 🏠 Aikido stays in the dojo
    Techniques are for practice only, not for playing or using outside on your family or other children.
  9. 🙇 Show respect
    Bow when you enter or leave the mat, and to your partner before and after practice. Respect for others is at the heart of Aikido.

Your teachers:

Cathy Sensei

Ivan Sensei

James Senpai