First Visit
Want to try Aikido? Our recommendation: come and attend class. Don’t worry if you have no experience. We were all beginners once.
Here are some simple tips for your first visit.
What to Bring
- Workout clothes (white dogi if you have one).
- Sandals or slippers for off the mat.
- Water or sports drink for rehydration.
When to Come
- Anytime! All classes are open. Please contact CAC in advance if planning to attend.
- Try to come at least 15 minutes before class to receive a tour, fill out paperwork, change and chat with members.
- Running late? No problem. Enter quietly and someone will step off the mat to greet you.
What to Do
- Watching: Feel free to train, but simply observing is okay.
- Preparing: After changing, remove all jewelry (rings, earrings, etc.)
- Bowing: In Aikido, everything begins and ends with a bow (stepping on/off the mat, starting/ending class, etc.). Follow as best you can.
- Training: The instructor will demonstrate; just try to copy (your partner will help).
- Talking: Talking (even laughing) during class is fine. But be mindful of volume and don’t distract from training. Also refrain from talking when the instructor is demonstrating.
- Questions: Never be afraid to ask them.
And…
- When all else fails, imitate (After all, when in Rome…)
- Mistakes are good. Be patient. If you knew it already, you wouldn’t be here.
- Breathe, relax and have fun.
