Ernie firmly believes in creating a strong foundation of basic skills on which one builds more advance maneuvers. We spent the vast majority of our time ensuring that this hard-earned foundation wouldn't crack or settle as we progressed. Each new exercise dovetailed nicely with the last, and conscious control over the helicopter was emphasized continually. Recommended daily allowance Each morning, Ernie plugged in and gave us, individually, the maneuvers we should practice during the day. We then observed a similar routine in the afternoon.
Breaks are an essential part of the day.
Ernie compares this learning process to a funnel with a small hole at the bottom. While you're learning, you're pouring in information, and as long as you're not pouring in too much, the funnel stays relatively empty. But, if you pour too quickly, the funnel fills up and, eventually, overflows. A short break gives the funnel time to empty, after which you're refreshed and ready to learn some more. We spent our evenings relaxing, going over points learned during the day, chatting, doing bench-work, etc.