Etiquette

Entering/Exiting the Dojo

Sweep mat before class
Assist instructor in setting up/taking down the shomen, ceremonial bokken, attendance binder and weapons (if used)
Sweep mat and surrounding area after class

Bow whenever entering/exiting the mat
Sit in seiza (formal Japanese posture with knees underneath) in a straight line before the shomen before start of class
When in seiza hands should be resting in the lap or on the knees
When in seiza aviod placing hands on hips or crossing your arms
The instructor will lead a group bow and a clapping of the hands at the start/end of class
If late, bow when entering the mat, then sit in seiza at the edge until invited by the instructor
Remain in seiza when the instructor is demonstrating
If seiza becomes uncomfortable, bow and switch to crosslegged sitting
Never sit in seiza with your back directly to the shomen
When not training stay out of the way and be mindful of those who are trainig
If training with an odd number, remain in seiza until your turn
If you need to fix your uniform, face away from the center of the mat when doing so
If you need to leave the mat, inform the instructor prior to bowing out and exiting

The person testing will shikko forward when called by the instructor
An uke will shikko forward when called by the instructor and take a position to the left of the person testing
Uke and person testing bow in the following order

If instructor calls for a new uke, the present uke bows and exits, followed by the new uke entering and bowing (either standing or shikko, depending on situation)
The instructor will call out the techniques to be performed. The person testing and uke will continue performing the technique until asked to stop
If weapons are required, they will be handed to person testing from predetermined persons sitting in the line

The recipient will shikko forward when called by the instructor, take a position before them and bow
The instructor will present the certificate and promotion
The instructor and recipient will mutually bow, the recipient shikko back to the line

The general etiquette at most dojo is the same, but the degree of formality may differ
Remove shoes at door if required
Address all instructors as “Sensei”
Offer to pay a mat fee even if one isn't requested
Respect the conduct, content and style of training practiced
Observe differences in etiquette (ex: clapping/no clapping, additional bowing, other forms of address)
Some dojo line up in order of rank. As a visitor it is polite to sit at the left/next to the lowest ranks unless otherwise instructed