Each relationship is different, however there are some general comonalities in my experience when it comes to certian things, and like with other pursuits in life, the right kind of "training" can only benifit one in their endeavors.

I was blessed enough to be trainned by a group of older practicioners of the art, in a manner early on that tuaght one to be flexible and inventive in one's submission, (focus was not on what exactly to think or do in any given situation, but on how to think for one's self and figure out whats best for each situation as it arises and quickely) and adjust to the needs of the dominant at hand. I have found that training useful in a wide variety of D/s situations and relationships.

So basically in my experience it is a misconseption to think that one type of training precludes another or that learning to serve one individual or group of individuals will taint one for serving others.

I do however agree that as mentioned above, your dominants idea of training may or may not include such things. You should ask what exactly he or she means.

In any event I think one should allways keep in mind a passage that a friend/mentor of mine is fond of and uses for her signiture:

"Do you know, ultimately," I asked, "who will prove to be your one best trainer?" "No, Master," she said. "You, yourself," I said, "the girl, herself, eager to please, imaginative and intelligent, monitoring her own performances and feelings, striving lovingly to improve and refine them. You yourself will be largely responsible for making yourself the superb slave you will become."

Page 210 - Savages of Gor