What to expect
We are often asked how our classes work. Sometimes we have special beginner workshops, but don’t wait until then to begin! In Aikido practice, all levels practice together, and everyone adjusts their technique to the level of their partner. (This is an important aspect of training for everyone!)
The best way to check us out is to visit a class (watching or participating), but many people like to know what to expect. Following is some basic information, but just follow along.
A general rule of thumb is: Take care of your partner and yourself (i.e., don’t injure others by training above their level; and don’t risk injury by training above your own level, and be sure to let everyone know if you have special training needs–training tape, a bandana, armband or other marker can be tied on to help everyone remember).
How Class Works
When it is time for class to begin, everyone lines up (sitting in seiza, or kneeling) along the line on the mat. The instructor then walks onto the mat, and everyone bows toward the front, then claps twice, then bows again toward the front. (This is Japanese tradition, but some people prefer not to clap. That’s fine.) The instructor then turns toward everyone, and all bow, saying onegaishimasu (“oh-nay-guy-she-mahs” meaning please). See also Dojo Etiquette.
The instructor then leads everyone in silent stretching and warm-ups. Then everyone will line up again, and the instructor will call someone up to help demonstrate the first technique. (If you have bad knees, you may sit cross-legged rather than kneeling during this time.)
After the demonstration, find a partner to practice with (just turn toward someone and bow, saying “onegaishimasu”). You will be uke (receive the technique) four times (twice on each side), and then you will be nage (do the technique) four times, etc., until the instructor claps. Then everyone lines up, and the rest of class continues this way.
We usually change partners every technique. If you find there is an odd number of students, the partnerless person should kneel or sit cross-legged at the edge of the mat, facing any practicing pair. The practicing pair should notice the third partner and rotate him/her into their practice.
At the end of class, everyone lines up and repeats the beginning bowing sequence. Then we usually make a circle near the front to discuss any club business.
Finally, remember that everyone was a beginner once! Our club founder, George Bevins Sensei, often recommended that beginners focus first on giving good attacks and taking good ukemi (rolling, etc.), in order to be able to practice at a higher level more quickly and thus able to improve in technique more quickly.
