Introduction
Etiquette in Aikido (in fact all martial arts) is an expression of universal common sense and courtesy. The remarks on the following pages are not a comprehensive list of “rules” for practice/membership within the association. Ultimately, it is better simply to digest them and obey the “spirit of the law”. While there are many “rules” and “conventions”, the best advice is follow instruction and ask questions if ever in doubt.
Breaching these codes of conduct can result in loss of membership, without warning, depending on the cae in question.
As a Member
Members (which includes both students AND instructors equally) will at all times:
- Treat others with consideration and respect.
- Not discriminate on grounds of race, gender or any other factor unless it is directly related to the safe practice of your chosen martial art (whether this is physical safety, mental safety or general safeguarding).
- Follow instruction to the best of your ability with sincerity and good faith.
- Follow safety rules and regulations to the best of your ability.
- Respect and celebrate difference in our group, and not discriminate against anyone else on the grounds of gender, age, race, sexual orientation or ability.
- Report any incidents of bullying, including homophobia and transphobia even if you’re just a witness.
As an Instructor
Instructors will at all times:
- Implement our safeguarding policy and procedures to their fullest extent where engaging with Under 18s and Adults at Risk.
- Report any concerns about, or allegations of abuse or poor practice to our Lead Safeguarding Officer (LSO), Richard Mann.
- Listen to any concerns that students or parents may have.
- Consider your behaviour — do not engage in any behaviour that constitutes any form of abuse;
- Respect your position of trust, and maintain appropriate boundaries and relationships with young people;
- Keep any coaching, safeguarding (where necessary) and First Aid training up to date.
- Ensure the appropriate legal clearance and insurance is in place within their club(s).
- Ensure understanding of relevant legislation.
- Ensure that licences are renewed on time.
- Keep students in your sessions safe by supervising appropriately, using safe methods and techniques, and by putting students’ safety first.
- Be aware of training methods and techniques that are unsuitable for young people, and adapt accordingly.
- Be sensitive to the needs and concerns of students when supervising paired or group exercises.
- Make sure you have appropriate ratios of Instructors/Assistant Instructors to participants before the session begins (1:16).
- Ensure equipment is fit for purpose, safe to use and accessible.
- Respect students’ trust and rights whilst being honest and open with them.
- Champion everyone’s right to take part and celebrate difference in our group by not discriminating against anyone, regardless of gender, race, age, sexual orientation or ability.
- Stop play if an injury happens, administer minor first aid and call for help when necessary – ensure that all injuries are recorded in the accident book.
- Use constructive and positive methods of developing students’ skills, without humiliating or harming them.
- Behave appropriately online in accordance with positively representing Integrity Martial Arts.
- Challenge and address instances of poor, negative, aggressive or bullying behaviour amongst all students.
- Lead by example when it comes to good sportsmanship, etiquette, positive behaviour and commitment to martial arts.
- Develop positive relationships with parents/carers, and update them regularly about their child’s development.
- Make Integrity Martial Arts a friendly and welcoming place to be.
As a Student
Students will at all times:
- Be responsible for your own safety.
- Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable Spirit.
- Look after equipment and premises as if they were your own.
- Maintain personal hygiene and cleanliness.
- Make sure any loose jewellery is removed and earrings and rings are either removed or covered with tape.
- Not smoke or consume alcohol on the premises or during classes, gradings, competitions or when representing us.
- Be mindful of the reputation of the group and act to positively promote and represent Integrity Martial Arts.
- Refrain from any antisocial or illegal behaviour either during group activities or in your own time.
- Be aware that the effects of illegal drug taking exhibited at any Integrity event will not be tolerated.
- Treat other students with respect and appreciate that everyone has different levels of skill and talent.
- Make Integrity Martial Arts a welcoming and friendly place to be.
- Support and encourage your fellow students.
- Respect your Instructors, and the Instructors and students from other clubs.
- Be a good sport and demonstrate appropriate etiquette.
- Play by the rules.
- Follow all safety policies.