Last week I traveled to Vancouver to train with Robert Mustard Sensei in his Burnaby dojo. I trained for 4 nights in his "regular" classes.  I had been a student of Robert Sensei's in Japan and for almost two years in Vancouver before moving to Texas .  Last week was something all together different though.

First off, since I was a visitor, I was treated with a great deal of respect from Sensei's students and like a long lost friend from Sensei himself.  I was amazed at the family like feeling I got from the dojo. That alone motivated me to train hard and often.

Secondly, the classes themselves were just incredible.  The spirit in the class is infectious and the focus of his students is enough to motivate anyone to become the best they can.

Thirdly, Robert Sensei teaches in a way that you can quickly understand the most advanced ideas and apply them to your own techniques.  He is a great teacher in that way and also the way he keeps the classes interesting and dynamic. In 4 nights I have seen a dramatic improvement in my power and precision of technique (including eri mochi).

Lastly, if Robert Sensei just relied on his interpersonal skills and teaching style alone, he would be considered one of the best in the world.  However there is more.  He sliced through my 6'2" 220lb frame like a hot knife through butter. He destroyed my balance while smiling and telling jokes to his class. This is the "magic" of Aikido, but he explains that there is nothing magic about it, and he shows you how to do it!

I would encourage anyone interested in improving their Aikido quickly to visit Robert Sensei in person. He is one of the best in all regards. Thanks again to everyone at the Burnaby Dojo for such a great week!

Mick Chambers (February 2005)