Hajime

Hajime (始め / 初め — often phonetically spelled or mis-transcribed as haijimi or hajimi) is the Japanese word for "begin" or "start."

Martial Arts Context & Usage

• Command to Start: In traditional karate (as well as Judo, Kendo, and Aikido), Hajime is the standard verbal command issued by an instructor (Sensei) or referee to signal the immediate start of an exercise, kata, line drill (kihon), or sparring match (kumite).

• Dojo Etiquette: When Hajime is called, practitioners initiate their movement with focus, speed, and intent. It is paired directly with the command Yame (止め - "stop"), which signals practitioners to freeze, reset, and return to ready stance.