Training outside

I was walking through Central Park in NYC yesterday and came across a herd of Aikidoka practicing in an open space. I inquired and discovered that it was one of the local groups which had lost their lease and been rendered dojo-less.

It was interesting to see them dealing with Aikido outside of the uniformity and "comfort" of the mat. (Not to mention the grass stains!)

How many folks have experienced Aikido al fresco? Did it have an affect on your perceptions?

Once i did Aikijo and Aikiken "al fresco" it was a very nice thing to do i hope to get the chance to do it again.

Our club do weapon work about once/week and it is all outside. We're quite lucky 'cos we can do it on University grounds. We've also done it on the local beach (and many people practise ukemi on the beach) but there is a possibility of being arrested for carrying an offensive weapon if you're not careful (so we tend to hide away somewhere).

Great thing about weapon work outside is it is less dangerous 'cos you have more space and you can do massive long Kumitachi without fear of running off the end of the mat or hitting someone. Also there are interesting variables like direction of the sun and uneveness of the ground to think of. (and you also get a nice tan).

I've yet to try some bokken work in a forest, but I think that may be a fun experience!

Ian

I did, once. Took some ukemi for a friend on dry,parhced grass, in a t-shirt. Very painful grass burn .

Also, ukemi on the beach is fun, especially after a gigantic wave hits you back, you turn and roll!


Sid