I know nothing about Aikido a buddy of mine is wanting to learn Aikido The school he picked out sound like a major Mcdojo I told him to look around more. What should he look for and stay a way from. I did not know that aikido was that much different from karate? Thanks for your time.

You should go watch. Alot of places may sound like mcdojos, advanced fee's/special programs, some are actually done in good faith. Karate and Aikido are different in approach to combat and philosophe. You won't hear anyone yelling while practising nor should punch/kick be countered with punch/kick. Believe you me, it is effective but in order to get to that point takes time and is ultimately up to you.


http://www.aikidofaq.com spells it out for ya in plain english.

About what to stay away from, I'd say if you know the term mcdojo you should have atleast some understanding of what it entails. What you should look for is a dojo that has an atmostphere which you feel you could practise in, also a sensei whom you see teaching in a way in which you believe you will learn. Perhaps you could also post the dojo you guys are going too, someone here may have attended.

I would suggest the St. Louis Ki Society. The dojo is small (definitely not a mcdojo) and in my experience the people there are kind and helpful. I believe the head instructor is Rupert sensei. They have a website with directions, I believe. Anyway, best of luck.

Joe

I would look at the Ki Society dojo, as suggested
http://www.stlki.org/
or an ASU school
http://www.stlouisaikikai.org/ or west end aikikai at 314-532-2442
Both are reputable organizations with experienced and reasonably high ranking instructors.