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These are the answers to some commonly-asked questions. If you do not see your particular question here, please contact our instructors and they will be happy to help you.
Health and Safety
I have a physical disability. Can I still practice aikido?
We do not discriminate against anyone with disabilities, and we are pleased that you are interested in our school and welcome you! Aikido can be physically strenuous, however, and we want to ensure a safe training environment for you. We recommend you consult a physician prior to enrolling, and we will be happy to speak with you and your doctor about the requirements of aikido training.
I am very out of shape, but would like to start learning aikido. Is this possible?
Students at our school begin at many levels of physical fitness. We encourage everyone to train at the level of their ability, both for their safety and their enjoyment. However, aikido training can be fairly strenuous, and if you have any doubts about your physical ability to participate, please speak with an instructor and/or your doctor to determine if you can safely train.
Learning & Progression
What are belt ranks in your school?
Our adult aikido ranks progress through five white belts (5th kyu ('gokyu') to 1st kyu ('ikkyu')), and then through ten black belts (1st dan ('shodan') to 10th dan ('judan')). We also have eight ki ranks ('shokyu' to 'kaiden'). Children wear colored belts starting with white and progressing through yellow, orange, green, blue, and purple. By the time children are ready for advanced rank they are generally training in the adult classes.
How long will it take to get my black belt?
Everyone trains and progresses at different rates, so your advancement is dependent on your motivation, your class attendance, and your aptitude. With consistent and motivated training, the average time from the introductory class to a black belt rank can be approximately five to seven years. It is important to keep in mind that black belt rank is not the end goal, and in fact it indicates only that you have attained the basics and are ready to be a serious student.
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