Being Uchi-Deshi in Iwama

Make sure you know your basics in taijutsu and weapons. Don’ t go to Iwama before this. Being uchi deshi should be regarded as the possibility to immerse yourself in training and Japanese culture. Your stay should not be considered a vacation. It is both physical and spiritual training, in both techniques as well as awareness training and much more. You have the unique chance to experience Japan and Japanese culture, but always with top priority given to the fact that this is Budo training. Whatever you are doing, it all relates to your training. Deep, rigorous training is called “Shugyo.” This means training at all levels, and at all times- physical as well as mental and spiritual training. Uchi deshi training is Shugyo.
 

Training in General

During practice you will run into many different interpretations of what is being taught. Each person you practice with will have their own way. Keep an open mind and follow the way you are being taught at the time without saying "I know better". In Japanese dojos, sometimes teaching seems to be quite irrational, especially to Westerners who are used to systematic pedagogy and "positive reinforcement." Techniques change occasionally, and everyone wants you to do a certain technique "their" way, oblivious to the fact that someone just showed you another way. Concentrate on learning the "new" way, you can always decide later on if it is something you can use or not.