Hokutoryu Ju-Jutsu follows traditional budo etiquette, which is based on respect and loyalty toward the art, the dojo, the sensei (masters), instructors, and training partners. Each practitioner must take their partner’s size and skill level into consideration. The dojo, originally a space dedicated to meditation, is not a place for eating, drinking, or socializing. The instructor holds full authority in the dojo, and no one may enter or leave without their permission.

Always arrive on time for class. Arrive at the training hall/studio/school (dojo) a few minutes early so you have time to change into ju-jutsu uniform/suit (ju-jutsugi). The time before class should not be used as a social hour, don´t disturb the previous class as they train.

Equipment

For beginners’ courses, clothing should be suitable for indoor exercise, and training is conducted barefoot. During the course, practitioners are expected to obtain a proper ju-jutsu uniform (ju-jutsugi) with the appropriate badges: the Hokutoryu Ju-Jutsu badge is worn on the left chest “over the heart,” and the club or school badge is placed on the left sleeve. The national flag may be added when attending international seminars. No other badges or decorations are permitted on the uniform. Kyu-level students wear a white ju-jutsu uniform with a belt corresponding to their rank: white, yellow, orange, green, blue, or brown.

Dan-level practitioners may wear black trousers with the uniform and a black belt marked with their Dan grade. Higher Dan grades may also wear red-and-white belts (6th–8th Dan) or red belts (9th–10th Dan). Students of green belt or higher are expected to bring their own boxing gloves, a fiberglass or rattan stick, and a wooden knife for training.

Cleanliness is a fundamental principle of ju-jutsu and budo. Practitioners must ensure that their uniform and equipment are clean, intact, and in good condition before each training session. Soiled or torn uniforms are not allowed All rings, necklaces, earrings, nose rings, watches, and other jewelry must be removed, and fingernails must be short. Long hair should be tied back, and heavy or staining makeup is prohibited. Feet must be washed before entering the dojo to keep the training mat (tatami) clean. While moving from the changing room to the dojo, appropriate indoor footwear such as slippers or sandals should be worn.

Training

The class starts and ends with common bow (rei) at kneeling position (seiza) by ju-jutsu instructor´s command when the students are lined up. When the instructor is 3rd degree black belt or higher, or he/she is the highest black belt in the club, the outermost student will command the first bow for the instructor (”sensei ni rei”), then the instructor will command the second bow.

If student is late and the class is already started, he/she should kneel on the edge of the mat. When the instructor gives permission to attend, student bows at kneeling position and enter the mat. No leaving from the mat allowed without instructor´s permission.

If the Chief Instructor of Hokutoryu Ju-Jutsu (Soke) visits your school, you must stop what you are doing; Instructor or senior person must call the class to attention and by his command (“soke ni rei “), everyone must bow.

Every time when the instructor has shown or gave advice students must bow. Training with a partner starts by instructor´s command “hajime”. Partners must be faced and bow to each other. After instructor´s command “yame” (stop), partners will bow again to each other.

Always address the instructor as “sensei” (black belt) or “sempai” (senior coloured belt). If called upon by the instructor, immediately say: “sensei” or “sempai”. Always obey instructor´s instructions.

There should be no unnecessary noise in the training hall. Talking, yelling and laughing must be kept to a minimum. No arguing or mocking allowed. Never lose your temper in the training hall while practising. All conflicts are left outside the training hall. Advanced students should set a good example for lower belts and train with them gentle.

If your uniform or belt (obi) needs adjusting, turn away from instructor and then adjust.

No chewing gum, food or drink is allowed in the training area.

Be loyal to your school and instructor. Work hard, have a serious attitude, think positively, and try your best.