Etiquette in the dojo
Before and after practicing judo or engaging in a match, opponents bow to each other. Bowing is an expression of gratitude and respect. In effect, you are thanking your opponent for giving you the opportunity to improve your technique.
Bowing is done either sitting or standing.
Bowing is marking a beginning and an end, it is understanding the need to respect rules because without rules, the exchange becomes impossible and anarchy is ready to take over.
When we step on the tatami, we have an obligation to be aware of others and to respect them for who they are and what they have lived. It is because we bow that we can express our inner nature, demonstrate our physical worth and apply our mental capacity, to perfect our soul steadfastness, without ever finding ourselves in the role of victim.
If the bow is therefore a framework for the practice of judo, it also influences it. Once we bow to each other, we enter a world where all blows are not allowed, in a universe where the opponent is as important as the self. To mark this breathing time, is to show humility despite the intensity of the fight that is ahead.
In that sense, the bow of the judoka is much more than a barrier gesture. Bowing has the power to allow us to express ourselves completely, in accordance with the rules and with total freedom of movement and intention.
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 Kodokan Judo
Examples of salutes for judokas
| Moment | Who | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Stepping in or out of the tatami | Shihan and the dojo | To enter shinto shrine, basically holy land, to practice by the judo rules. To remind that self ego remains off the tatami. Pay respect to Shihan and the dojo. |
| Before and after a practice | Instructor, uke or fellow judoka | By this posture of respect, with empty and free hands, without defence, we become aware of the other and show our consideration, demonstrating self-control. Show gratitude for the teaching, the partnership and the contribution to self improvements |
| Before and after a practice | Instructor, uke or fellow judoka | By this posture of respect, with empty and free hands, without defence, we become aware of the other and show our consideration, demonstrating self-control. Show gratitude for the teaching, the partnership and the contribution to self improvements |
| Greeting, acknowledging, expressing gratitude | All | To bow to each other is to illustrate in a simple and powerful way the bond of brotherhood that links all judoka. |
Respect, courtesy, and consideration for others
Judokas are expected to exhibit proper decorum in the dojo. The dojo is not the place for idle talk or frivolous behaviour. In practice or in a match, students should go all out, and when resting they should watch others practice; by doing so they may learn something.
Eat-ing, drinking and smoking are not tolerated in the dojo, and students are urged to keep it neat and clean. Bowing is marking a beginning and an end, it is understanding the need to respect rules because without rules, the exchange becomes impossible and anarchy is ready to take over.
Personal hygiene is also important. Judokas should be clean and keep their fingernails and toenails short to avoid injuring others. The judogi should be washed regularly. To get the most out of training, one should always practice moderation in eating, drinking and sleeping.
Respect the dojo
- Keep the dojo clean. Proactively contribute to its maintenance.
- Be tidy and respect practitioners’ space in the changing area.
- Bow to Shihan, Sensei and the dojo when entering and leaving the tatami.
- Maintaining composure and sportsmanship
Respect others
- Be quiet to respect the teaching of Sensei and the practice of others.
- During line up, sit down on your knees by the visitors area if you are on the tatami.
- Gently explain judo rules to non judoka. (Ex: Non stepping with shoes on the tatami)
Personal hygiene
- Judoka work in contact with each others.
- Keep your fingernails, toenails, beard, underwear and gi clean.
- Do not wear anything else than your judogi to prevent injuring others.
- Mind your judogi and show respect to others by wearing it in the dojo only. Outside is dirty, don’t bring dirt in. After practice you are sweaty, the world does not need your odour or body print.