One of the prerogatives of being an uchideshi is to be able to participate in black belt classes, or any other special classes, even if he or she is a white belt ranked student. Practicing among much more advanced students and trying to keep up with them is not an easy task. The first trick an uchideshi learns is how to tie his belt loosely so that It comes undone every so often. In this way he can take a short break to catch his breath while he is tying his belt again. Of course, all senpai students know this trick and will not give a new uchideshi a chance a chance to rest even with an untied belt. In this case the clever uchideshi has to continue his practice with his uniform flapping awkwardly about him. Keiko (practice) is the highest priority for an uchideshi, and no matter how busy he or she is with other tasks, he or she must attend classes daily. Those who hold down day jobs or work nights need to make sure that there is absolutely no conflict between their jobs and practice schedule. Keiko for the uchideshi is not a spare-time activity, second in importance to their job. Rather, jobs are held down in an uchideshi's spare time to support their training at the dojo. At first, an enthusiastic uchideshi tries to attend all of the classes held each day. At Nippon Kan there are three classes held over a four-hour period each evening. When considering this training as a long-term program, it is better to not push too hard or too fast. Pacing is a very important part of planning. It is better to try to attend two classes each evening. Basically, an uchideshi is in training twenty-four hours a day, and although practice is the highest priority, it is important to try and maintain some balance. The lessons to be learned at the dojo are not always taught only on the mat. It has been found that overly-enthusiastic new uchideshi who practice at all classes tend to try to stockpile new techniques while ignoring the other aspects of their training. In such cases it is better for them to be told to reduce the number of classes they attend. Concentrating excessively on classes may produce a skillful Aikido technician, but there is much more than technique to be learned. A balance of activities is important for overall development. Towards this end, ten minutes of toilet cleaning can be equal in worth to an hour of practice in class.