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I never quite understood the reason for the faster improvement after a seminar than in a regular class.Could it be be due to the Ki aura that is emitted by the presence of the Shihan or the need to perform is created and thus makes one go the extra mile. I am certain that Sugano Shihan's 30+ years of practice has created an unfathomable amt of Ki accumulation waiting to be harnessed in a technique. I want to believe that the "high quality" Ki infused in the air improves one's technique.
You have decided to start your class, what is expected of me and what should my expectations be ?
1) Attend class with an open mind, there are many concepts that may contradict your belief( culturally, religiously or scientifically)
2)Attend class with a clarity of mind; leave your worries behind so that you can be focused. Why ? ( read explanation 1 below)
3)You need undivided attention. Pay attention to the whole movement, the steps taken, the shift in the center of gravity and the hands movement. A lot to digest but ..this is Aikido.
4)Never interrupt and instructor when they are executing a technique.
5)Do not sit or stay too near to the instructor and his uke {ou-kay} ( partner in the execution of technique). Give them space for the demo !
6)Always be proactive, look for a more senior student to practice the technique. Go to them bow and say onegai shimasu{oh- nee-guy she-must} ( please may i )
7)Never ever go to your instructor and ask him to be your uke. This is rude in Japanese culture as hierachy is practiced.
8)Never resist a technique being applied. Many times, injuries arise from resistance and using too much force.
9)Learn good ukemi {ou-kay-mee} ( falling technique), this avoid the pitfalls of injury preventing you from training Aikido.
10)Patience is essential. You may not be able to understand the technique now, give yourself some time to digest it.
09-16-2009 05:11 AM 
