Dogwood Aikikai offers classes at many different times by several different instructors. How to best derive the maximum benefit from our dojo community is very much based on individual experience and is a personal preference. Here are some things to consider.
There are two martial arts, that are very complimentary, that are taught at the dojo: (1) Aikido including both open hand technique and aiki weapons and (2) Iaido
Fundamentals
Aikido fundamentals are taught in the context of preparation for the 5th kyu test (first test). Key components include: ukemi, attackes, openings, techniques, body movement, posuture, and hip control. New students are encouraged to attend Sunday, Monday and Thursday classes so that their progress can be tracked along with other students that are working on their introduction to Aikido and the critical technical foundation of the art.
Sunday, Monday, and Thursday:
These classes are split into three components. (1) Aiki weapons are taught for the first part of each class with an emphasis on the development of posture, correct body movement, and understanding distance; (2) Aikido fundamentals are taught from a technical and conceptual perspective with emphasis on drilling the core foundation that Dogwood Aikikai stresses for the 5th kyu test (first test). This work sets the foundation that enables students to more easily progress through the art; and (3) the class is split by experience level and while newer students continue to train fundamentals, experienced students focus on more complicated and dynamic practice.
Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday:
These classes are general that offer a broader spectrum of technique throughout the whole class. Unlike the fundamentals classes, these classes are focused more on techniques rather than the curriculum to attain and maintain a proficient foundation.
Friday:
The Friday evening class is dedicated to ukemi or the technique of attacking, falling, being thrown, etc.
Early Morning Classes:
Each of the morning classes on Mon-Wed-Fri is a general class.