What to Expect
Students may start anytime.
Practice is done at a suitable pace - slow if inexperienced, new students are present, and at a moderate or fast pace if experienced students are present. We believe that technical skills are acquired slowly with deliberate, aware practice. All students are required to abide by Rei-ho, the rules of etiquette, which means proper respect for the teachers, senior students, art, and the physical space (dojo) where we practice. Physical limitations, within reasonable limits, will not be a barrier to training. Techniques can be modified, or alternatives suggested, to work with limitations (knee pain, back problems, and so on). We believe strongly in conditioning so much of the time will be spent in aikido-specific strengthening drills, with attention paid to proper biomechanics. We take a long-term view of practicing this art, so we emphasize good habits (posture, breathing, movement, awareness, basics). Students expecting immediate street-effectiveness, ability to break bricks, flashy gymnastics skills are advised to look elsewhere.
Students are expected to help with maintenance of the dojo and in keeping it clean. We view the aikido training hall (dojo) as a spiritual space where we get back to our center, maintain our center, and move with our center. Bullying, excessive displays of egos, unsafe practice, and not listening to teachers may lead to immediate dismissal from classes.
Are Classes Fun?
The above description of classes and philosophy may seem to be too serious and not fun at all. Far from it. As the word Yuwakan means, a training hall to develop friendships and harmony, we are interested in creating a harmonious aikido community of caring practitioners, who are dedicated to following this art of peace and non-violence. The reason for seriously following etiquette, or Rei-ho, is to ensure safe practice for all, and to make sure that naturally stronger people do not use the dojo as a platform to bully on naturally weaker persons. Learning the art together, understanding the complex ways in which human body works, developing awareness of your surroundings, having a healthier mind and body, developing the spirit to work hard and learn to get up after being thrown (ukemi), transferrring the lessons of non-violence to your personal life, certainly all these make the practice of aikido fun. Best way to find out is to come to the dojo and watch a few classes and find out for yourself.