HOW TO BE A PERFECT STRANGER ON THE MAT

February 11, 2020

Curious about taking a trial lesson, but don't know what to wear, where to stand or how to act? Don't worry, we've got you covered. We're the most beginner friendly school in town.

What to wear?

Students who are members of the dojo will wear a traditional white dogi (karate uniform), and those who train in Aikido will also wear the navy or black divided skirt called a hakama. During your trial period, however, you won't be expected to purchase any special clothing or gear. Just come in a pair of sweats and a tee shirt or other clothes suitable for exercise. For the Aikido class, we recommend that you wear long pants instead of shorts to save your knees from friction on the canvas-covered mats. 

When to arrive? 

If at all possible, arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled class, so you can be dressed (we have dressing rooms available) and ready to train when class begins. 

However, we'd rather you arrive late than not at all. If you arrive and your class has already begun, please sit quietly at the edge of the mat until the instructor asks you to join. We promise not to keep you waiting long. 

How to stand and sit, when to bow? 

In a traditional dojo, you bow when you enter, and when you step on and off the mat, before you begin training, and when you switch partners. Don't worry, though, we'll teach you etiquette as you train with us, and we will always be polite about it. No one is going to be upset with you if you forget how to sit or stand or take a weapon from the rack. We're here to help you, and we believe that the most important part of etiquette is making others comfortable. When you enter the dojo, come find an instructor, introduce yourself (we'll be happy to meet you), and ask any questions you'd like answered. 

How do I get started? 

Just call Mark Clark at (931) 644-5022, and we can schedule your free trial lesson!

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