Membership & Culture

Dojo Etiquette & Principles

The dojo is not a gym; it is someone else's home, and you are a guest. Respect is expressed through action.

  • Bowing & Onegaishimasu: Greet each partner with a bow and "Onegaishimasu" (Please take care of me, and I will take care of you).

  • Safety & Intensity: Aikido and BJJ are physical arts. Maintain focus and intensity, but never take things lightly to ensure safety.

  • Tapping Out: The tap is a universal signal of reaching one's limit. Immediately cease all application of movement or physical pressure when your partner taps.

  • Diversity: Our members come from all walks of life with one common goal: to learn and defend. We learn together through movement and discovery.

  • No Division: We do not discuss polarizing topics such as politics or religion that can sow division.

  • Cleanliness: After training, everyone participates in sweeping and wiping down the mats. We clean the dojo together.

“The dojo is a “lighthouse” or a “sanctuary” for many. It is a place where we can seek refuge, reset, reinvent and discover a different part of ourselves.” Ray Feliciano