Aikido is a virtually infinite martial art. It is, at its best, a way of re-discovering the Universe in ones self. It is an effective form of self defense at the same time it is an invaluable system for personal development. Traditionally Aikido was practiced as a "Martial Way" or Budo. It was very severe training and was not widely practiced by members of the population as a whole.
Kyu Test Procedures · Kyu Test Requirements · Dan Procedures · Dan Requirements Aikido Adult Beginner Classes We have instituted a program to get the complete novice off to a solid start. The classes listed on the schedule are open to beginners only. It is expected that the new student will attend at least two of these classes each week. The fundamental skills required to practice the art will be covered including forward and backward rolls, how to execute the basic strikes contained in Aikido, the essential footwork movements, and simple techniques designed to start reprogramming the body to relax and to imprint correct basic body mechanics in the new student. These classes are designed to be very basic. The student must attend these Beginner Classes until he has permission of the instructors to move into the Open Level Classes. The average new student should be able to accomplish this in approximately three months. Students are expected to attend these classes until they have taken their second Kyu Test which is 5th Kyu. After that they are welcome to attend the Open Level Classes. Aikido Open Level Classes When the student has received permission to move out of the Beginner Level Classes he may attend any of the Open Level Classes on the schedule. This includes the sword and jo classes. Students are responsible for weapons technique on their rank testing so they are highly encouraged to regularly attend weapons training. In the Open Level Classes students will be introduced to the various Kihon Waza or "basic techniques" of the art and their variations. The focus in this class is on techniques as they exist on the Kyu Test Requirements. Although more training is clearly better, a student who consistently attends three or more techniques each week should be able to eventually attain a solid level of competence. Rank testing is based on a combination of time on the mat guidelines and recommendation of a "trainer" with whom one works to get ready for a given test. There is no automatic advancement simply because of "time in grade" but rather we insist that each candidate be able to perform at the appropriate level before he is allowed to test for the next grade. Aikido Advanced Level Classes These classes are restricted to 3rd Kyu (Brown Belt) and up. Occasionally, we also allow students with substantial martial arts backgrounds in something other than Aikido to participate. The requirement is simply that people need to be able to fall spontaneously, strike with speed and power, have the basics of weapons work down, and want to train in a more demanding fashion. The focus on this training is on deepening the understanding of essential principles, developing the ability to spontaneously and creatively apply technique in any situation, and on practicing Aikido as Budo. These classes are required for advancement to 3rd kyu and above. Private Lessons Private lessons with Ledyard Sensei are available. Students can train in the regular classes and use private lessons to enhance their skills or they can simply train privately (it is best for at least two students to train this way). |
Bookstore
Video Store
Events Calendar
Related Links
Members Only
Aikido
It's not about fighting.
It's about not fighting.
Aikido Eastside
13410 SE 32nd St
Bellevue, WA 98005
425-802-3125
Email Us
