Basic commands you will hear at every training session:
| Rei | Palms together to salute |
| Naore | Bring your hands down |
| Onegaishimasu | Please (say it clearly, look your partner in the eyes). Said when starting something. |
| Arigato Gozaimashita |
Thank you for teaching me/ working with me (say it clearly too, look your partner in the eyes). Said when you have finished something. |
| Hajime | Begin! |
| Yame | Stop! (You must obey this command instantly as it may be for your safety) |
| Shinkokyu | Deep breath |
| Kiai | Loud, snappy and brief Shout upon strike with fist or foot. (Usually voiced as “Ai!”) |
| Seiretsu | Line up! Command issued by sensei / an instructor facing the class. Shugo! is said right after. |
| Shugo | Assemble! Command given by the kenshi at the front row on the right, when facing the mirror. |
| Kiritsu | Stand up |
| Kamae | Take stance |
| Zentenkan | Turn around 180 degrees : either to face a training partner, or at the end to salute your sensei. |
| Sensei ni rei | Palms together and salute your sensei. As soon as your palms are in front of your face, say: Arigato Gazaimashita! |
| Chakuza | Sit down. Unless told otherwise, should always sit down on your knees (Seiza). |
| Seiza | Sit formally (kneel) |
| Anza | Sit comfortably (cross-legged) |