Beyond the first class:
The advantage of a 'clean slate' and the challenges for advanced practitioners in a unique aikido style
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Introduction to part 2
In our previous article, we delved into the depths of the "Aikido Bermuda Triangle", examining the psychological, social, and other factors that often prevent initially enthusiastic enquirers from even making it to their first class. In this current piece, we take a step further: what happens to those who do cross the dojo threshold? How does their long-term commitment develop, and what unique dynamics can be observed, especially within a community representing a specific, less common martial art lineage, such as the Shoji Nishio style of Aikido, which is rich in weapon-based practices? In this part, we will explore the different challenges and opportunities faced by complete beginners versus more experienced practitioners from other styles.
The complexity of long-term commitment in unique styles
Long-term commitment and retention in a dojo are complex issues, influenced by numerous factors even after a student attends their first class. Particularly interesting are the dynamics that unfold within a martial arts community representing a specific, unique lineage, such as the Shoji Nishio style of Aikido, known for its rich curriculum of practices with weapons.
The blessing of a 'clean slate': When the beginner has an advantage
A common experience in such specialized systems is that complete beginners, arriving with a "clean slate," often integrate more easily and deeply than those who have already gained proficiency in other Aikido styles. They have no preconceptions or ingrained habits to overcome. They openly receive the teachings, and the specifics of that particular style become "Aikido" for them. Therefore, in a dojo that teaches a unique and profound system, the beginner's initial "ignorance" and openness can actually be an advantage for long-term commitment and deep integration into the style.
The experienced practitioner's hurdles: adaptation and "unlearning"
Conversely, more advanced practitioners socialized in other systems not only have to learn new techniques and principles but often also need to re-evaluate, and even partially "let go of," an existing, ingrained knowledge base and movement culture. This can pose a significant mental and physical challenge and may trigger internal resistance. They might feel that "their Aikido" is different and find it difficult to accept unfamiliar emphases, such as the prominent role of weapon forms in the Nishio style and their connection to empty-handed techniques.
Therefore, the previously mentioned call for self-reflection – that every applicant should thoroughly consider whether they can truly undertake the challenges of a new path – applies even more strongly to advanced practitioners approaching a system significantly different for them. Here, the challenge is not only mastering the basics but also flexibly managing existing knowledge and having genuine openness to the new.
The "Empty Cup" philosophy: The fundamental condition for learning
However, it's important to emphasize that this kind of "inflexibility" or difficulty in adapting on the part of experienced practitioners is not necessarily a positive phenomenon and contradicts the openness and receptivity that should form the basis of the martial arts (and learning in general) spirit. As Bruce Lee taught, we should arrive at every training session like an "empty cup," so there is always space for new experiences and teachings. This attitude is particularly crucial when a practitioner with existing knowledge encounters a new system or master. If the "cup is already full," it's difficult to absorb new things, and old patterns can, intentionally or unintentionally, filter the reception of new information.
Beyond initial discomfort: The advanced practitioner's hidden potential for growth
At the same time, although adapting to a new system can initially be difficult for an experienced practitioner, quick rejection or superficial judgment is not necessarily the best decision. With appropriate perseverance and the conscious maintenance of the "empty cup" mindset, it is precisely these challenges that can lead to new insights and skills that can significantly enrich and further deepen the martial artist's existing "professional" knowledge. Mastering new perspectives and techniques, and understanding different emphases, can greatly boost the practitioner's development and broaden their horizons in the long run, even if it seems uncomfortable or even unnecessary at first.
Conclusion
Thus, we can see that even after attending the first class, different paths and challenges await practitioners, depending on their prior experience and their openness to embracing a specific, unique martial art system. While a "clean slate" can often be an advantage, for the more experienced, the challenge also holds immense potential for growth, provided they can approach the new with the humility of an "empty cup."
In the next and final part of this series, we will offer practical advice for hesitant beginners on getting started, provide motivation for perseverance, and examine strategies that instructors can employ, as well as the philosophy of a value-based dojo.