When are practices held?
We practice each Monday and Wednesday of the week in the SRC small gym A from 5:30 to 7:00 PM. Club members are invited to the Kokikai Southwest Dojo for Friday practice at 6:30 to 7:00 PM.
Do I have to attend all of the practices?
No, we understand that busy class schedules do not always permit regular practice, but the more time and effort you put into practice the more you benefit from it.
What do I have to do before I can practice?
Before you can even step on the mat for practice you must fill out and sign the SRC assumption of risk form. This type of release is required by most athletic organizations, and you should read it carefully before signing.
What should I wear?
The best clothing for Aikido practice is a gi or practice uniform. If you don't already have one, wear loose, comfortable clothing that covers your arms and legs. Shorts and short- sleeved shirts are not recommended because they leave you vulnerable to annoying - and sometimes painful - friction burns during ukemi (rolls and falls). You should never walk onto the mat with shoes on (we practice in bare feet), and you should always wear footwear (sandals, slippers, or some other foot covering) whenever you are off the mat, even for the few steps from the dressing room to the mat. If you have been wearing sandals or other shoes before arrival, thoroughly clean your feet before stepping on the mat, so as not to leave dirty footprints.
What should I NOT wear?
Before practice, remove any watches, bracelets, or other jewelry. Jewelry can be easily broken during practice, and worse yet - could cause injury to you or those you practice with. The same goes for clothing with buckles or other hardware. It is also a good idea not to wear makeup - it tends to transfer from your face to your practice partners' clothing.
Where can I get a gi?
Gi are available from martial arts supply stores, the internet, or mail order catalogs. The club coordinates a mass order of gi, as well as other Aikido practice equipment and books, from a reputable supplier once a semester at a discounted price; talk to senior club members or instructors for more information.
What should I do if I arrive late for practice?
If practice has already started when you arrive, bow onto the mat at the corner by the door and sit there in seiza until the instructor leading practice asks you to join in. Sensei may say "Please join us" or merely bow or gesture in your direction to let you know it is okay to join practice, so pay attention! Remember that the warm-up exercises at the beginning of practice are very important to prevent injuries, so try to be on time. If you arrive too late to stretch properly, you may want to ask Sensei for permission to spend some time warming up on your own before practicing with other students.
What should I do if I have to leave early?
If you must leave early, it isn't necessary to make a big explanation. Simply excuse yourself to your partner and to the instructor leading practice. Do not leave without letting the instructor know you are going. If you know before practice begins that you need to leave early, you should tell the instructor before practice begins.