I?ve been practicing Aikido at Brooklyn Aikikai for the past year, and here are some of my observations: \r
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1) The ratio of black belts to beginners at this dojo is something like 5 to 1. So beginners, like me, are constantly benefiting from experienced instruction. Their teaching styles vary to some degree too, so the instruction is nuanced.\r
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2) There?s a strong spiritual and social component to the dojo. Zen meditation (Zazen), weekend Zen retreats, potluck dinners, and parties are all in the offering, and any student can participate as much as they like to.\r
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3) A number of visitors frequently pass through Brooklyn Aikikai; other Sensei, Roshi, Jujitsu and Karate specialists, Aikido students from Japan and South America, students from local high schools, etc. So there are always new people adding something to the practice sessions, which never feel repetitive.\r
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4) The physical space of the dojo is special too. It?s very traditional (Japanese), and has an immediate mind-clearing ambience. It?s truly an oasis from normal city life.\r
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5) Lastly, but most importantly, Sensei Robert Savoca is an extremely gifted instructor. He has an uncanny ability to account for each student?s individual level of development and push them to new heights. He is constantly available to every student as well. I can honestly say that I have never met a more physically fit person before in my entire life, and I have been astounded by the level of athleticism that I scene in practice. Sensei Savoca?s extreme dedication to Aikido, in the fullest sense of the discipline, is extremely admirable.\r
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Brennan
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