I used to teach gymnastics at the YMCA. I spent agreat deal of time into trying to make everything afordable for the members. I tried to get them discounts on Leos, always looked for discounts on hotels when we traveled and gave countless private lessons to kids for free. It seemed the more I gave, the more everyone expected. The Y gutted our program and everyone was fired. I'm now teaching at a club where the dues are two or more time as much. The equipment is better and membership is great. We don't have enough instructors to teach the kids who are willing to pay the bigger fees.

If money paid to an Aikido club seems high to you. Ask yourself if you would work for the money your instructor makes from Aikido? Chances aree your answer is no. If he is a full time instuctor, he needs to earn a living too.

John Glass