Every dojo has them.
The students who seem to improve faster than everyone else.
Most people assume they're naturally talented. But after many years of teaching, I've noticed something different.
The students who make the most progress often share a few habits that have nothing to do with athletic ability, flexibility, or natural gifts.
In this week's video, I explore what those habits are and why they matter.
One of the ideas may surprise you.
Watch here:
See you on the mat!
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🌿 Your Practice Prompt
During your next class, choose one technique and approach it as if you've never seen it before. Rather than trying to demonstrate what you already know, look for one new detail in the movement, timing, posture, or connection. Notice what changes when you stay curious.
Share your experience—I read every reply.
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Lia Suzuki
Author
• The Teacher
• Mastering The Shoto
Director: Aikido Kenkyukai International USA
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LET'S TRAIN TOGETHER!
🗓 Upcoming Seminars
2026
- July 1
Aikido Demonstration and Conversation: A Martial Path of Peace and Healing
Saint Paul's Episcopal Church
Lia Suzuki Sensei
Brookline, MA, USA
⭐ 30TH ANNIVERSARY FEATURE
This year’s Summer Camp marks 30 years of Aikido Kenkyukai International USA.
- July 15-19 (Early Registration closes June 13!)
AKI USA Annual Summer Camp & 30th Anniversary Celebration
Lia Suzuki Sensei, Hideo Numata Sensei, and others
Los Angeles, California, USA - August 29-30
Shanghai Xijiao Aikido Dojo 15th Anniversary Celebration
Lia Suzuki Sensei & Others
Shanghai, China - September 4-6
Aikido of San Diego
Lia Suzuki Sensei
San Diego, CA, USA - September 14-15
PSV Heidelberg Aikido Sansuikai Dojo
Lia Suzuki Sensei
Heidelberg, Germany - September 16-20
Bewegung & Lebenskunst Bonn
Lia Suzuki Sensei
- - September 16-17: Yudansha Seminar
- - September 18-20: Mixed Levels Seminar
Bonn, Germany - September TBD
Aikido Shinboku e.V.
Lia Suzuki Sensei
Düsseldorf, Germany - September 25-27
Aiki Dojo Sehnde
Lia Suzuki Sensei
Sehnde, Germany - October 2-4
Mountain West Aikido - Livingston
Lia Suzuki Sensei
Livingston, MT, USA - October 9-12
Redlands Aikikai
Lia Suzuki Sensei
Redlands, CA, USA
2027
- September
Ima Juku Aikido
Lia Suzuki Sensei
Baarn, Netherlands - More Seminars added soon...
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