Several martial arts schools have a standard code of behaviour steeped in tradition. This includes everything from movement in and out of the dojo, how one puts on his (or her) uniform, and how we address each other.

General Etiquette

Even if you are familiar with other Martial Arts, please recognize that each dojo has it's own style. Below are some of the basic etiquette rules we follow during practice at Ka Muso Kai:

• Arrive early enough to assist with preparing the dojo for training
• Remove shoes outside the dojo
• Bow to the room as a sign of respect when entering or exiting
• Show respect to other Iaidoka (practitioners)
• Practice in bare feet
• Accept the instructions of the Sensei (teacher) without hesitation unless you require clarification
• Assist with dojo clean-up duties

Hajime no Reiho

"Hajime no Reiho" translates as "opening etiquette." This refers to the sequence of actions we perform when we prepare to train. 

Our opening Iaido etiquette involves:

• Stepping into line from most senior (sempai) to most junior (kohai)
• Bowing to the shinzen (shrine)
• Sitting in seiza
• Bowing to the sword, becoming one with it
• Placing the sword into the obi (belt)
• Securing the sageo (cord)
• Standing 

Owari no Reiho

"Owari no Reiho" translates as "ending etiquette." This refers to the sequence of actions we perform when we conclude training. 

Our closing Iaido etiquette involves:

• Stepping into line from most senior (sempai) to most junior (kohai)
• Sitting in seiza
• Taking the sword out of the belt
• Bowing to the sword, thanking it for protecting you
• Bowing and thanking the sensei
• Standing and bowing to the shinzen (shrine)

The etiquette differs slightly for each martial art. However, reverencing the shinzen and showing respect to our sensei, sempai, weapon, and each other is common to every art.

Hajime no Reiho Video Demonstration

Muso Shinden Ryu style