Uniforms

Your uniform reflects your attitude towards your training. It also reflects on your Sensei and upon Aikido. Keep your uniform neat and clean. Mend it whenever it becomes ripped or torn. Replace it when it becomes shabby. Fold it neatly when coming and going from class.

New students may not have a Gi during their first few weeks or months of practice. This is normal — no one can be expected to invest in a new Gi until they have decided to continue with Aikido. By the time a student has settled in, though, they should be prepared to invest in and wear a regular practice uniform.

Some students practice Aikido while wearing a Hakama (wide-skirted pants worn over the Gi). The Hakama is also a part of the traditional Aikido practice uniform. In some dojos only Yudansha (black belt students) may wear a Hakama, while in others all students must wear one. At the Prairie Aikikai, all students who would like to wear a Hakama may do so at any rank. Because of the extra cost involved, however, students will not be expected to purchase one until they feel ready to do so.

The exact method of wearing (tying) and folding the Hakama is a matter of personal preference. Students should observe what others do, then find their own comfortable way. It is customary at some dojos for junior students to offer to fold the Hakama of Sensei and the senior students. Learning to properly fold a Hakama is necessary not only for this honor, but also for the day when you wear one of your own.

Remove all watches, rings, earrings, and other jewelry during Aikido practice. These have no place in a physical activity and could cause injury to both you and your practice partner. Neither your instructors, Jeffrey or Leslie Hecht, nor anyone else can guarantee the safety of your valuable items. It is best not to bring anything of value to class. If you must, place it well inside the Dojo and be sure to check on it often.