Developing a caring attitude

It is the responsibility of the principal teacher present to ensure that his or her class practises safely. As his or her student, you too bear a level of responsibility to those with whom you will be training. Some Shindo techniques can maim or kill.

The observance of elementary safety rules during practical training is of vital importance. By observing simple precautions and being aware, there is absolutely no reason why anyone should suffer any form of injury during training sessions. Remember that during the practical exercises you will be practising with another person's body. You can practise effectively without excessive contact. Take care of your partner and respect his or her body by using appropriate and controlled movements according to the instructions given by your teacher. Shindo students enjoy their training, however, please enjoy it within the safety limits imposed by common sense and a caring attitude.

Working to your own limitations

You will not be pushed into doing something you are afraid of or cannot do. Rather you will be encouraged, your teacher will demonstrate and support, but recognise that there may be moves which you are just too nervous to attempt, or physically unable to do. Your teacher will strike a balance so that s/he does not force you into doing something, but encourages you to tackle new experiences. You will be watched carefully throughout training especially if you seem nervous or anxious about a move. However, it is important that you communicate with your teacher throughout training. Don't be afraid to tell your teacher about your fears and feelings regarding training. Ask questions and resolve problems together.

Disabilities

It you have a long term physical disability or condition, you should have detailed this on the Application for Training form that you submitted. If you did not, for your own safety and well being, please ensure that your teacher is informed without delay. If you develop or sustain a short-term physical disability which you feel may be aggravated by physical activity it does not matter. You do not have to do what you cannot, however, you MUST inform your teacher on arrival so that he or she can accommodate you. You should also tell any partner with whom you might practise.

Clothing and footwear

Shinseido students wear the traditional keiko gi (training suit). However, beginners who have not yet purchased a gi should wear loose fitting and comfortable, casual clothing. Track suits and old sweaters may be best, (although these might be too warm in the summer months). Trouser bottoms, shorts, or slacks can also be worn. Training participants normally work in bare feet, however, if there is a problem with that speak to your teacher who may permit you to wear soft footwear such as 'kung-fu' slippers or similar (these are available through your teacher).

Jewellery

You must not wear jewellery, watches, wrist and neckbands, rings, chains or other metallic or hard objects during training.

Practice area

The area in which the class is held has been checked carefully before you begin training. Any fixtures or fittings which participants could fall against have been moved to a place of relative safety. However, learn to be aware of the things around you and develop spatial and positional awareness. Be aware of other students who are working in the same group as you and where they are standing in relation to you.

Mats

It is possible that the mats used for groundwork training can slide apart. It is very easy to turn an ankle or bruise an elbow between two mats. Therefore, check that the mats are pushed together before each technique is effected. If the mat area is small, make sure you have enough individual space to fall safely without hitting someone else.

Size of group

No Shindo teacher will work with a group that is too large. The instruction of large groups, especially of younger participants is difficult and a teacher cannot watch everyone at once without a great deal of experience. In such cases an assistant teacher will help to look after the group.

Teaching

The Shinseido teacher will always show a class clearly what s/he expects in a practise - kicks and punches hurt. You can practise effectively without contact, and you will be shown how to do this.

Falling

Falling is dangerous - take it at your own pace. Look after your knees, elbows and head. Listen to, and follow the teacher's instructions. If you bang your head, concussion can follow (symptoms are sickness, headaches, possible double vision and dizziness) so make sure that you sit out and rest. If symptoms persist, you must see a doctor. Always report an incident or injury to the teacher, it is unlikely, but not impossible that an incident has gone unnoticed.

Arm locks

Beware of arm locks. They should be effected gently and a word of acknowledgement or a tap must be used to indicate when they are effective.

Newcomers to physical exercise

If you have not exercised for a long time, you may be very stiff after an initial session. The warm ups before each session will help you to ease into the routines gently. Take it easy at first and build up the activity, take a hot bath afterwards. Do not do something that you feel you cannot do.