Here are some tips to help you as you begin your aikido training.
I. Come prepared to move.
When you schedule your visit to Studio Ki, you should come prepared to join class--no sitting on the sidelines here. Wear or bring something that's comfortable (but not too loose-fitting) and that you can move freely in.
You'll be stretching and rolling on the mat.
Changing rooms are available. Please keep your belongings in a bag in the dojo--not in the locker room. Remove all jewelry for your safety and the safety of your classmates. Set phones to silent or airplane mode.
II. Come prepared to move . . . awkwardly
"Beginner's Mind" is an attitude that allows you to take in all things without judgment because you haven't learned the "right" way to perform them. It's a state of mind that experienced martial artists seek to regain through their training.
So, congratulations! As a beginner, you've already mastered one of the most fundamental lessons of martial arts training!
I encourage you to take this opportunity to enjoy the awkwardness and unfamiliarity of the world of aikido that you are just beginning to discover!
At the start of your aikido journey, there will be many new physical sensations and emotions, unfamiliar language, and unwritten rules of etiquette to take in. It may feel like an overload of mental and physical information--much of which won't seem to make any sense. At first.
But perseverance will bring real rewards--I promise you.
And your beginner's mind will be critical to your success. Remain open to the new. Accept that you'll feel awkward--even embarrassed--at times. That your body will ache and your mind will be frustrated by aikido.
But remember that we've all been there. And that we're eager to share what we've learned with you. Your classmates and I will be there with you every step of the way.
So relax and enjoy this special time in your aikido training!
III. Set aside enough time.
For your first visit, you should plan on joining practice from beginning to end. Classes begin promptly at the designated hour, so be ready to line up and bow in on time.
"You don't have to go fast. You just have to go early."
Arrive early so that you can change clothes and get situated. There will be some liability and personal information forms to complete before you are allowed on the mat. Please alot about 10-20 minutes to complete these before class begins.
Studio Ki is a traditional Aikido dojo.
This means that the etiquette, formalities, and style of training we practice are similar to those found in Japan. These can take time to learn and get accustomed to. Giving yourself adequate time to "take it all in" in the beginning will help you navigate this new world.
Finally, plan to stay after practice is finished to speak with Sensei. This is a great time to ask any questions you may have about the training, rules, and etiquette of the dojo.
IV. Leave it at the door.
When I began aikido over thirty years ago, my mother had just been admitted to a hospice unit. My father, brother, and I were spending every moment we could with her in the hospital when I began to train regularly at a local aikido dojo.
The dojo quickly became a space where I could shut out the sorrow and pain of the world for a brief time by focusing on my training. And in that way, aikido truly saved me.
I sincerely hope that the circumstances that have brought you to aikido and Studio Ki are not so tragic as mine were.
But I do encourage you to leave the troubles of the world--no matter how big or small--at the door whenever you come to the dojo. I know first hand that rigorous aikido training at Studio Ki can be a great way to refresh and renew your spirit so that you're ready to meet the challenges of daily life.
And I have experienced--both that summer so long ago and countless times since--the healing power that aikido has to offer. I hope you can experience it, too, at Studio Ki.
V. Commit to training, and protect your schedule
When I lived in Japan, I discovered that too much practice had a negative effect on the quality of my training. Conversely, without regular practice, it's impossible to make real progress.
At Studio Ki, we aim for consistent, high-quality practice.
This requires that we be fully present in our training. That's why it's important to protect your time at the dojo. Make the time in your schedule, and defend it.
And not just for you. Your classmates need you to be at the dojo as much as you need them. None of us can make progress in aikido alone.
At Studio Ki, we are each committed to supporting the entire dojo through our training.
Bonus Tip!
(Once you've decided to take the plunge and join us at Studio Ki):
DON'T practice at home.
Beginners often ask what training they can do at home. Some have even told me of the training areas they've set up in their basements--complete with mats and weapons--intending to practice on their own! While I appreciate the excitement and enthusiasm we often feel when start something new, I honestly recommend that you DON'T practice at home.
There is no substitute for coming to the dojo.
Unlike Yoga, Tai Chi, and some other martial arts, aikido cannot be practiced alone. Yes, there are some stretches and other exercises you might add to your regular gym routine.
But fundamentally speaking, aikido requires other people.
In fact, "ai" (合)--the first character of the word "aikido," can be translated as "connection, merging, blending, coming together, uniting." Notice that none of these things can be done alone.
Also, I have discovered that people who throw themselves into a new passion project often experience burnout, get bored, and soon quit practicing--a real loss for both them and the dojo.
So keep it simple and come to the dojo. Every week. Just come to the dojo. It's where you're needed. And it's where you need to be.
--TC
ADDITIONAL BONUS!
Mention this blog to Cooper Sensei, and receive 10% off your initial membership fees!
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