The rules of behaviour for the Dojo fall in to two categories; traditional and safety.

The Rei

You should rei (bow) on entering the Dojo. This signifies that you are ready to learn and are leaving the outside world at the door. You should also rei on leaving the dojo.

You must wait at the edge of the mat and rei to the most senior person on the mat before stepping on. They will rei back to acknowledge you. You must also ask permission before you leave the mat. This is so the Sensei is aware of where everyone is.

The formal rei at the beginning and end of the session is to thank the Sensei for the knowledge they pass on. This bow should be performed by placing the left hand first, then the right. The bow is made with the eyes still looking up, do not look at the floor. On straightening, lift the right hand first, then the left.

You must rei to your partner before you start practicing a technique with them. This says "OK, I'm ready now." You should not attack your partner before they have bowed to you. Once you have bowed move into a yoi (ready) stance.

You should also rei when you finish a practice. This says "OK, that's done. Thank you."

When called up into the center of the mat to demonstrate, especially at a grading, you should rei to the Sensei and then your partner. When you are finished, rei to your partner and then the Sensei before you leave the center.

"Bowing is an expression of gratitude and respect. In effect, you are thanking your opponent for giving you the opportunity to improve your technique." - Jigoro Kano, Founder of Judo, Master of Tenjin Shinyo-ryu Ju-Jitsu and Kito-ryu Ju-Jitsu.

Courtesy

Respect the art and your fellow Jitsuka by having a clean gi and correctly tied obi (belt).

You should keep your finger and toe nails clean and short. You must also remove all jewellery and cover any piercings that will not come out.

Long hair should be tied back so it is under control, preferably in a plait or bunches. A pony-tail is less advisable, as you increase the chance of striking your head on the floor.

You must not lose your temper or swear in the Dojo.

You may not eat, drink or smoke in the Dojo. If you require a drink of water, you must ask to leave the mat.

You must never drink alcohol before training.

Any Brown or Black belt should be addressed as "Sensei". A grade senior to yourself up to Dark Blue should be addressed as "Sempai". A junior grade may be addressed as "Kohai".

The correct way to stand when not practicing is with the left hand resting on the belt and the right hand resting on the left palm. Do not cross your arms, have your hand on your hips or lean against the wall.