Table of Contents
   Introduction
   Program of Classes 
         Introductory Classes 
General Classes Weapons and Advanced Classes
Workshops and Seminars
Children and Teen Program
Two Cranes Teaching Staff
Making the transition from beginner to general student

Starting Class Buying a Keikogi (training uniform) Preparing for Class Stepping on and off the mat Lining Up for Class Bowing in Joining Class
Attendance System
Student Responsibilities Philosophy of the Dojo and training
Etiquette Misogi Training Fees/Dues Health and First Aid
Visitors Watching Class Visitors Who Train Liability Forms Mat Fees Exams/Promotion Process During the exam Belts Kyu Exam Guidelines Glossary of Terms
Kimberly Richardson Sensei, Chief Instructor

 

 


Introduction

 

Aikido is a martial art and spiritual discipline created by Morihei Ueshiba O Sensei (1883–1969). The name Aikido consists of three parts: AI means harmony; KI refers to life energy, the essence of all things in nature; DO means a path or way. Thus Aikido can be thought of as the way to harmonize vital energy. It is a way to cultivate profound personal growth through martial arts practice. Aikido is the study of harmony within each person (mind, body and spirit), and ultimately, harmony with the universe. The self defense techniques practiced in Aikido teach us, in an experiential and physical way, the power of harmony which can transcend and eradicate violence.

The founder of Aikido was born in 1883 in Japan. An exemplary martial artist, he combined his expertise with his spiritual and ethical insights to form modern Aikido. His genius was to discover that applied non-violence is one of the most potent weapons human beings possess. The experienced
warrior O Sensei realized that a true martial art must transcend concerns of winning and losing; it must be a means of personal transformation leading to the realization of the harmonious nature of the universe. Until his death in 1969, O Sensei dedicated himself to teaching and continual exploration of the Art of Peace.

Aikido emphasizes physical fluidity and mental
acuity rather than effort and strength in resolving the conflicts presented in the techniques. Relaxation under stress is encouraged as well as centering and energy awareness. Focused awareness and full commitment, rather than physical resistance,
are what provide the power behind Aikido defense techniques. Aikido also fosters


The foundation of Aikido is within becoming empty like the sky. From this standpoint,
the freedom of harmonious movement is born. Becoming empty means to discard all
illusory thinking and mistaken ideas of self.
                                                                                                                        
Morihei Ueshiba O Sensei

calmness and self-confidence so that conflict can be resolved in an assertive and peaceful manner, on and off the mat.

Everyone trains together, old and young, veterans and beginners, flexible and stiff. By training with different partners, one learns to shape the technique to fit each situation. One discovers how to find resolve in each encounter with each person. This is a practice that invites us to build a solid foundation in the art of living mindfully and skillfully.

Aikido teaches that effective self-defense requires
responsiveness, rather than reactive movement. The practice of Aikido encourages intelligent action and cultivates precise movement. Self-defense skills acquired in training provide a broad range of responses to attack and also develop an attitude of protection for both self and aggressor. Aikido assumes that true victory is achieved when conflict is brought to peaceful resolution.

This handbook is designed to introduce you to the practice of Aikido at Two Cranes Aikido. We will discuss the fundamental philosophy and goals of Aikido training, how to begin training as a student, what to expect during a class, dojo etiquette, how to participate in getting (and keeping) the dojo ready for class, training fees, and more.

Intentions set energy into motion. Intent is real. To effectively lead intent, you must
establish a rhythm, a tempo prior to physical action. Get your intention clear and give
it your complete commitment.

Tom Read Sensei
Program of Classes
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We offer a variety of classes including Beginning, General, Advanced and Weapons classes, as well as classes for children and teens between the ages of 6 and 16, and special workshops and seminars.

Introductory Classes

Two Cranes Aikido offers a comprehensive eight week Introductory series of classes for new students. These classes provide a beginning study of the basic principles and practices of Aikido to adults. These formal Introductory Classes are offered on an ongoing basis. Students are invited to sign up for this series at the beginning of each month either by visiting the dojo or signing up onlne.


Students participating in the Introductory Series will be invited to attend up to four classes per week: on

Monday evening 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday evening 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Saturday morning 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Tuesday morning from 7:00 - 8:00 a.m.

These classes are geared toward basic techniques. We encourage students to attend at least two classes per week if possible.

 


 

Pre-registration for the Beginners Series is
encouraged but not required. Students interested in joining the class should come early on the first day of class to register. Loose, comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely is recommended; a formal training uniform (keikogi) is not required. Please consult the class schedule insert for the fee for this series.

We ask that anyone interested in Aikido at Two Cranes come in and watch a class in session before they come in for their first class. You do not need to make an appointment in advance.

General Classes

General Classes are the main classes for ongoing Aikido practice. Adults who have practiced Aikido for eight weeks are welcome in these classes. We offer General Classes seven days a week at various times. Please consult the class schedule for times.

Advanced Classes

Thursday night class 7:00-8:00 p.m. is open to brown belt and black belt students to train. All students are invited to watch this class.

Weapons Classes

Weapons classes focus on individual and paired training techniques primarily with the long and short staff, sword and knife. These classes are available to 5th kyu and higher ranking students.

Aikido is natural movement. If you can walk you can do Aikido.                                         

Motomichi Anno Sensei                                                                       Top
Workshops and Seminars

We offer special training opportunities with guest and in house instructors. These workshops and seminars provide us with exposure to the training of other, senior Aikido practitioners from all over North America and the world, as well as afford us the time to focus intently on aspects of our training such as randori and ukemi. Additional fees are requested for workshops
to pay the guest instructor and to support the
dojo.

Children and Teens Program


Two Cranes Aikido offers classes for children starting from age six. The focus of our youth programs is to introduce the practice of Aikido to young people. This includes the study of the following Aikido principles: cooperation, nonviolence, awareness, balance, respect, self-defense, integrity, sincerity, and self-esteem. We offer programs for three age groups:

         Ages 6–10: Beginner
        Ages 8–12: General/advanced
        Ages 12–16: Teens & Teens weapons

Each program is lead by an experienced black belt who directs the focus of the program and closely monitors the training and development of each student. Adult Aikido students often serve as volunteer assistants to the instructors in each class.
These are very popular programs that can have waiting lists. If you would like to register your children in a class, please call the dojo, expressing your interest in the program and the ages of your children, and the easiest way to contact you.

Two Cranes Teaching Staff

Students at Two Cranes receive instruction not only from Kimberly Richardson Sensei, but also from her colleagues and her highest ranking students. These instructors bring to the dojo a vast array of personal practice and wisdom. In addition to training with Kimberly Richardson Sensei, most instructors have extensive training from a variety of Aikido instructors. The founding instructor staff includes: Anne Yamane, Daniel McAbee, Joey Perlmutter, Richard Darby Senseis. Other instructors include David Hurley, Helmut Floss, Kris Allott, Cynthia Wold, Jim Allbaugh and Taryn Sass Senseis.

Sara Gerhart Snell is the Program Director for the children and teens classes. She also teaches adult classes.
When one understands the working of spiral energy and trains oneself in the truth of
the spirit, Aiki is created.

Morihei Ueshiba O Sensei

Making the Transition from Beginner to General Student


Once you have completed the eight week Introductory Series you have two options.                              Top

1. In general, completing the eight week Introductory Series enables you to become a member of the dojo and participate in general classes. Eight weeks is a relatively short amount of time to learn the basic skills needed for general practice. Students are always invited to participate in the Introductory classes for another eight weeks for the same fee as the original series price. Before attending general classes we ask that you can are comfortable with forward and backward rolling. Richardson Sensei monitors all students’ progress and will discuss any concerns with you. If you elect to join the dojo all general classes will be available to you with the exception advanced class (Thursday night). We strongly encourage you to continue to attend the Basics Class night as you acclimate to being a general student of Two Cranes.

Your membership dues are due on or by the first of each month.  In addition to monthly dues, there is a one time registration fee due when joining the dojo. Students can pay online or deposit a check in the dues box at the dojo. As with all fees, the registration fee is listed on the inserted class and fee schedule.
2. You are always welcome to continue your practice as a “beginner”, which means you can attend the classes designed to address basic skills.

If you choose this as an option you will be asked to pay the same fee as the introductory Series listed on the class schedule. The fee covers eight weeks and begins the date you write the check. For clerical reasons this is the simplest way to track your payment and training. Please let us know this is what you have chosen to do by including a note with your dues payment.

Often students find it helpful to continue exclusively attending the classes geared toward basic skills for a period of time. We consider this an indicator that a student is consciously working within their safety zone or limits. This is your practice and therefore it is your responsibility to know what is best for you.
The techniques of Aikido are intended for us to use in examining the nature of power, to
engage in compromising self-scrutiny, and to realize our potential as powerful, compassionate,
self-aware human beings.

Mary Heiny Sensei
Starting Class
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Formal Aikido practice begins when we walk through the door of the training hall or “dojo”. Upon entering the dojo, we make a standing bow towards the shomen. The shomen is a shrine dedicated to the spirit of Aikido and is located at the main wall at the front of the dojo,
where the picture of O Sensei hangs, along with the calligraphy of aikido and fresh flowers. This bow is a gesture of respect for the art of Aikido and for ourselves, rather than a religious observance. We honor traditional Japanese etiquette by removing our shoes and placing them in the shoe racks beside the door or neatly under the bench. Shoes should never be worn on the mat. This is a part of our practice and a gesture of respect for the dojo.

Buying a Keikogi

A keikogi or “gi” is a traditional, white training uniform. There are many different styles and cloth types. Although welcome, you are not expected to invest in a gi for the first few months of your training. When you feel clear that you plan to continue your training, then it is appropriate to consider the investment.

The dojo sells several styles of gi for the convenience of the students. Gis may be purchased elsewhere but they must be white. We recommend buying training uniforms on the slightly large size because they often shrink in the wash. If you would like to buy a gi, please check the misogi list on the bulletin board for the student who can help you.


Preparing for Class

Prior to training please remove any jewelry that may cause harm to yourself or your partners . Keep your fingernails and toenails cut short.

Stepping On and Off the Mat

Before stepping on or off the mat please bow respectfully towards the shomen. This is a gesture of respect for the dojo and for our Aikido training.

Cleaning / Misogi
Before each class we dust the mat and vacuum the rugs. Often this is when students will take the time to perform any misogi duties they have signed up to do for the month.

After the mat has been dusted you are encouraged to stretch out, practice rolling, train with another student, or take in a moment of quiet.

Aikido is the way of nonresistance and is therefore undefeatable from the start.
Morihei Ueshiba O Sensei
Lining Up For Class
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Class begins with the students seated in a neat
row facing the shomen, or front wall. Out of respect for Aikido, our instructor, and ourselves, we sit with an erect posture in seiza (kneeling). You may sit cross-legged if seiza is very uncomfortable or if you have injured knees. If there are more people than will fit in one line, we either make two lines or the line is extended along the sides of the mat in a “U” shape so that everyone is in the “front” row.

Bowing In

After some moments of sitting quietly, the instructor will move to the center of the dojo and lead us in the opening ritual. We bow two times, then clap four times, then bow one more time. The instructor will then turn toward the students at which time we offer a mutual bow. During these opening ceremonies, we endeavor
to bow and clap in unison, following the lead of our instructor. The form and complexity of this practice has its origins in Shinto spiritual tradition, invoking the elements to ready us for practice.

Joining Class in session

If class has begun before you are able to get to the dojo please enter the dojo quietly and proceed to the dresing rooms. When your are ready to train please wait at the edge of the mat until the instructor acknowledges you. This is a sign of respect to the person teaching as well as a safety precaution.

Offer a standing bow before stepping on and then a seated bow in as we do at the beginning of class quietly (two bows in seiza followed by four claps and one more bow). If the class is warming up it is considered poor etiquette to engage in different warm ups than the rest of the class, as it would be if you had been in class from the start. If you have missed the warm ups please take a moment to stretch in the back of the dojo before joining class. It is critical that you follow this request for your safety as well as for the safety of all students training.


If you ever have to leave class early please notify the instructor and bow out at the edge of the mat on your own before leaving the mat. The process of bowing in and out of class is the same.

Attendance System

It is your responsibility to mark your training
days on the board next to the office. This helps Richardson Sensei to have a more accurate awareness of how often you train. It is also a good way for you to quickly note how often you are training.
True budo is for the purpose of establishing harmony.
Morihei Ueshiba O Sensei
Student Responsibilities
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This section addresses some of the fundamental responsibilities of being a student of Aikido at Two Cranes. In the dojo we have a unique environment, therefore, we have focused this section on some important aspects of what it means to be an active, conscientious student. We encourage all community members to enhance their personal practice by engaging in the process of maintaining a respectful and well kept dojo.


Philosophy of the Dojo & Training


This dojo follows the traditional rules of conduct. Its spirit comes directly from the founder of Aikido and the succession of his teachings handed down from teacher to student. It is the responsibility of each student to act appropriately and to honor these teachings.

Our atmosphere of harmony and respect is a result of every student’s dedication to these principles.

Cleaning (misogi practice) is an active expression of thanksgiving and respect. It is the responsibility of each student to assist in keeping the dojo clean.

You cannot buy technique. The monthly dues
provide a place for training and a way in which to show gratitude for the teaching received. It is each students responsibility to pay dues on time (the first of the month).

Respect the dojo, respect your training and respect your fellow students and teachers.

 


It is important to honor the way in which
the instructor of the class directs the training. Receive instruction and carry out suggestions for training sincerely.

It is the moral responsibility of each student never to use Aikido technique to harm another person or as a way to display his or her ego. It is a tool to develop a better society through character development of the individual.

There will be no aggressive ego conflicts on the mat. The purpose of Aikido is not to fight and defeat an enemy, but to fight and defeat your own aggressive instincts.

The strength of Aikido is not in muscular
force, but in flexibility, timing, control and
compassion. Be aware of your limitations and take care of yourself.

Everyone has different physical abilities and reasons for study. These must be respected. True Aiki is the proper and flexible application of technique appropriate to any changing situation. It is your responsibility to cause no injury to your training partner or yourself.


True budo is for the purpose of establishing harmony.

Morihei Ueshiba O Sensei

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Etiquette

In an Aikido dojo, the observation of basic forms of etiquette is integral to the creation of a respectful and attentive atmosphere. The training mat is the heart and soul of the dojo and there are certain procedures, attitudes and rules that pertain to it. Since rigorous
physical training takes place on the mat, the
possibility for injury to oneself and others is always present. Serious injuries incurred during Aikido practice are rare because correct training rules are stressed. Safety and respect are top priorities in the dojo. If you have any questions about etiquette, please ask a senior student for clarification.

The most basic form of etiquette is the bow. The bow is not an expression of religious formality, but rather an act of respecting the universal creative
intelligence within us all. Aikido is not a religion, but a spiritual discipline dedicated to the education and refinement of the spirit.

The words spoken at the beginning of practice
between the students and instructor are, “Onegai shimasu.” Loosely translated it means “Please train with me”. “Domo arigato gozaimashita” (“You have my gratitude”) are words spoken at the close of class or whenever appropriate. This is a respectful way of saying thank you.

Since the class is opened and closed with a formal ceremony, effort should be made to be on time and participate in this event. You are encouraged to arrive early enough to allow for stretching and warming up before class, whenever possible.




Sitting quietly for a few moments before class is an excellent way to center yourself before training.

If unavoidable circumstances require you to
be late, you are still encouraged to come to class. Please wait beside the mat until the instructor signals permission for you to join the class.

• When the instructor demonstrates a technique, you should sit quietly. After a demonstration bow to the instructor, students
bow to a partner and begin practice. When the end of a particular practice is signaled (often with two claps), students bow to their partners and quickly line up in seiza for further instruction. It is most appropriate to bow to a partner sitting next to you on either side during class.

For reasons of safety, respect, and courtesy, it is essential that the teacher’s instructions be followed exactly. Many Aikido techniques can be dangerous if not practiced properly. Emphasis should be placed on learning as much as possible through intent observation and concentrated practice.

 


                                                               Top

O'Sensei

Talking must be kept to a minimum so that you can experience learning through the body. Don’t correct or instruct your training partner unless you are asked to do so.

The instructor is addressed as Sensei when on
the mat.

Respect students with more experience. Never
argue or debate about technique on the mat. You are welcome to discuss any questions you may have after class with the instructor or another
available black belt instructor.

It is Nage’s responsibility to care for the safety
of their Uke.

Students need to be aware of the level of their
training ability. It is the student’s responsibility to inform your training partner if your limits are being exceeded.

You are welcome to sit and observe class at any time. If you do so, please sit respectfully with attention to good posture.

Do not lean against the walls in the mat area.
There should be enough space between you and the wall for someone to walk by.

Respect your training uniform. Gis should be kept clean. Please do not leave gis in dressing rooms (with the exception of neatly folded hakama).

The use of alcohol and drugs prior to class is
prohibited. Students taking prescribed medication
that could possibly affect their training and the safety of others are requested to advise the instructor.

If blood should become present on the mat
during training, the individual who is the
source of the bleeding needs to leave the mat
and care for the wound. The partner of the
person bleeding will clean the area by spraying
the area with hydrogen peroxide, letting it
foam and then wiping it up. The spray bottle
of peroxide is found in the first aid station.

All levels train together in most beginning
and general classes. Newer students should not hesitate to ask more advanced students to train with them.

If you are injured, you are encouraged to train by watching class. Although there may seem to be extensive amounts of etiquette to learn, it will come to be a natural way of interacting as you continue to train. If you cannot abide by these rules, you will be unable to study Aikido in this school.
Bowing
Aikido is not a sport. It is a discipline; an educational process for training the mind, body and spirit. Physical technique is not the true objective, but a tool for refinement and personal growth.

Mitsugi Saotome Sensei                                                                                                                                                          Top
Misogi

We train ourselves to develop a spirit of cooperation, open heart and humility. In order to maintain an atmosphere conducive to such effort we must attend to the cleanliness of the dojo itself. The daily attentiveness directed at the dojo complements our training by encouraging a quiet sensitivity to our surroundings and fostering an attitude where each person, seeing that something needs to be done, simply does it. In this way nothing is left undone, either in the dojo, or in our daily lives.

We organize dojo misogi in this way: some tasks are the long-term responsibility of the chief instructor and teaching staff; other tasks are rotated among the active members of the dojo. There are sign up sheets for a variety of misogi tasks. Please look them over and contribute in whatever way you can. The following is an outline of what is expected according to rank. This is a general guideline.

All levels, including white and blue belts: sweep mat and sign up for monthly misogi tasks (see list posted on the bulletin board) Blue & brown belts: help introduce new students to misogi, help students find gis, sign up for longer term misogi.

Brown belts: help run seminars by signing up
for assorted jobs.

Shodan: organize/oversee seminars and cleaning
for seminars, sign up for longer term misogi tasks.

Training Fees

As much as we wish that money were not associated with our training we still have to pay the rent and bills. Your dues do exactly that – they pay the bills. This means that paying your dues on or before the first of the month helps us out tremendously and shows a level of respect and consideration of the dojo that we appreciate. We want to be sure you are credited for all payments properly. To ensure that this happens, please clearly communicate what your payment is for (dues, gi, seminar).

Dues ensure our dojo expenses are covered. If you are able to pay your dues while away for any reason or are sick or injured, it is very much appreciated.

Please consult the insert for accurate dues and fees. If you are having any difficulties paying your dues please consult with Richardson Sensei.

Dues: this is a regular amount paid monthly in
exchange for the opportunity to attend classes.

Registration Fee: This is a one time fee that covers the clerical expenses of setting up a new student.

Insurance Fee: This is a fee that occurs once a year to cover our annual insurance bill.

Misogi removes the outer layer, takes off the cover, scrapes off the dust. If your eyes are closed, you can’t see the light. If you are wearing gloves, you can’t feel the earth. Misogi cleanses and refines; it opens the eyes and peels off the gloves.

Mitsugi Saotome Sensei                                                                                                                                                           Top

Health & Safety

Aikido training involves close contact between the students and the instructional staff. Please help to maintain everyone’s health by staying at home if you are ill. If you become infected with lice, chicken pox, Hepatitis, or any other ailment in which people at the dojo may have been at risk of exposure, please contact the dojo immediately.

Please attend to your hygiene before getting on
the mat. Wash your hands, and make sure your
training clothes are clean.

First Aid

There is a first aid station in the back of the dojo.
Here you will find first aid supplies, athletic tape, nail trimmers, etc. If you find that you are bleeding at any time you are in the dojo, please immediately clean and cover the wound. It is very important that you also immediately remove any bloodstains from the mats or floors; there is a spray bottle with hydrogen peroxide solution on the first aid Station.
If you are injured while training, please inform the instructor immediately. It is not necessary to inform the instructor if you receive a minor injury such as a scratch. There are ice packs in the freezer for immediate first aid use.

 

If you have a condition that may need attention
such as diabetes, epilepsy or uncontrolled
asthma it is your responsibility to make the
instructing staff aware of it. It is up to you to
ensure that what you need is available to you
when you need it. This also pertains to all students keeping emergency contact numbers on up-to-date.

Safety

For the purposes of the safety of the Two Cranes community we ask that all dojo members abide by the etiquette and philosophy of the dojo. Although this rarely occurs,  we reserve the right to require you to discontinue your training if you behave abusively toward yourself or others. Our priority is the safety of all students.

Hands
Visitors
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Watching Class

Observers are always welcome during our classes.
As a student at Two Cranes Aikido, please
acquaint guests with basic dojo etiquette.

We place a high value on the warmth and welcoming atmosphere at Two Cranes Aikido. If you are a student and notice someone unfamiliar on the bench it is appreciated if you greet them and see if you can answer any questions.  Typically this should be done by a student who is a brown or black belt. If no brown or black belt students are available, any other student
may take the initiative.

Visitors Who Train

If the visitor is an Aikido practitioner you have not met before, introduce yourself, acquaint them with the dojo and make sure they speak with the instructor before class begins.

Liability Forms

It is especially important that all training visitors
fill out a Visitor’s Liability Form before getting on the mat. Ask them if they have filled out one of our forms in the last year; if they have not, please ask them to fill out a new one. Please place their form on the office desk. If they wish to be on our mailing list be sure to get their mailing address.


Mat Fees


There is a $10 mat fee for visitors. Mat fees can be paid with cash (please have them put it in an envelope and indicate who paid and what for) or a check made out to Two Cranes Aikido and place it in the dues box.
throw

Don’t concentrate on technique. Work on opening your heart instead. Aikido is heart to heart transmission.

Motomichi Anno Sensei
Promotion Process
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Testing is a natural extension of our training.
Although testing is not a requirement in this
dojo, it is an opportunity to advance one’s training
by focusing on a series of techniques and
principles appropriate to one’s level. The testing
process invites students to challenge themselves,
improve their technical ability and deepen their
understanding of their practice.

Adult ranks begin at 5th kyu and progress to 1st
kyu and then to 1st degree black belt (Shodan).
Dan (black belt) ranks ascend in number. In
preparation for a kyu exam, you are required
to train for a set amount of time and attend
seminars. These requirements are listed below.
Each kyu rank poses specific techniques
which students are asked to examine in depth.
Techniques from a previous test may also be
called on the current test. Preparing for a test
allows us all the opportunity to push ourselves
ever higher in our training. The testing process
is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your
level of training as a presentation to the dojo
community. Therefore, students are not asked
to demonstrate until they are already training
at that level.


If Richardson Sensei has not approached you
regarding an upcoming exam and you are interested in testing, please make an appointment to speak with her.

If you are interested in engaging in the kyu
exam process:

-Keep track of your class attendance.

-Fill out the test application form and pay the test fee . There is a $50 testing fee for each kyu rank. The shodan testing fee is $100. Nidan and higher testing fee is $200.

-Make sure you have spoken directly to Sensei
  about the testing process and have arranged
  a time to meet with her.

-You are encouraged to train at least 3 times
  a week as you prepare for your test.

-Be sure you are familiar with the opening
  and closing bowing formalities of a test and
  that you have an uke to begin your demonstration with. Your uke needs to be   either your rank or one rank above you.

The Number of Training Days Required for Kyu Rank:
5th kyu – 50 training days
4th kyu – additional 80 days + 1 weekend seminar prior to testing
3rd kyu – additional 100 days + 1 weekend seminar prior to testing
2nd kyu – additional 125 days + 2 seminars per year.
1st kyu – additional 175 days + 2 seminars per year.
During the Exam:

You will be asked to demonstrate your understanding of basic technique appropriate to
your level.
You will be asked to demonstrate spontaneous
movement and response appropriate for the attack.
You should demonstrate concentration and
awareness throughout your test.
Speed is not your priority during a test, but
continuity of movement is important.
A technique should be demonstrated continuously
both left and right, until there is a signal from Richardson Sensei to stop.
Both irimi and tenkan should be used whenever
applicable.
You will be expected to know and respond to
the Japanese terms for techniques

Belts (Obi)

Colored belts indicate a student’s rank and
progress. After taking an exam, you may wear
a colored belt, as appropriate.

5th Kyu: White
4th Kyu: Blue
3rd Kyu: Blue
2nd Kyu: Brown
1st Kyu: Brown
Dan: Black
The product of Aikido training is not the physical power of technique; it is the power of wisdom. But solid technique is the first step, the foundation on which to build. The movement and shape of the body reveals and simultaneously affect the movement and shape of the spirit. I cannot reach inside you and grasp your spirit. But I can help you to change the shape of your hunched and aggressively tightened shoulders. I cannot make you open your heart and communicate with others. But I can show you how to stand with your shoulders back, your spine erect and open to their movements. I can show you the
beginning of the path to communication. I can help you discover a more powerful and compassionate way to react to the aggressions of others.

Mitsugi Saotome Sensei
Kyu Exam Guidelines
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5th kyu (white belt)

Tachiwaza (techniques from standing)

• Shomenuchi Ikkyo (irimi & tenkan)
• Shomenuchi Iriminage
• Katatedori Shihonage (irimi & tenkan)
• Morotedori Kokyunage
• Aidori Kotegaeshi
• Ryotedori Tenchinage
• Kokyuho

4th Kyu (blue belt)

Includes proficiency of all previous kyu requirements. Where appropriate, techniques should be demonstrated from irimi and tenkan, omote and ura.

Suwariwaza (techniques from kneeling)

• Shomenuchi Ikkyo
• Katadori Ikkyo, Nikkyo, and Sankyo
Tachiwaza (techniques from standing)
• Shomenuchi Ikkyo & Nikkyo
• Yokomenuchi Shihonage
• Aidori Iriminage – two ways
• Katatedori Kokyunage – one forward throw & one backward throw
• Morotedori Ikkyo
• Ushiro Tekubidori Sankyo
• Tsuki Kotegaeshi
• Jiyuwaza (freestyle) with one uke
• Kokyuho

3rd Kyu (blue belt)

Includes proficiency of all previous kyu requirements. Where appropriate, techniques should be demonstratedfrom irimi and tenkan, omote and ura.

Suwariwaza (techniques from kneeling)
• Shomenuchi Iriminage

• Katadori Ikkyo thru Yonkyo
Hanmihandachi
• Katatedori Shihonage
• Ushiro Tekubidori Kotegaeshi

Tachiwaza

• Shomenuchi Ikkyo thru Yonkyo
• Yokomenuchi Ikkyo (include entering style)
• Ushiro Ryokatadori Ikkyo
• Morotedori Kokyunage (two throwing forward, one backwards)
• Tsuki Iriminage
• Katatedori Kokyunage, Kaitennage (uchi & soto)
• Jiyuwaza with two uke
• Kokyuho

2nd Kyu (brown belt)

Includes proficiency of all previous kyu requirements. Where appropriate, techniques should be demonstrated from irimi and tenkan, omote and ura.

Suwariwaza

• Shomenuchi Ikkyo thru Yonkyo
• Yokomenuchi Iriminage (2 ways, include entering)
• Katadori Ikkyo thru Yonkyo
• Katatedori Kotegaeshi
Hanmihandachi
• Katatedori Kaitennage (uchi & soto)
• Ushiro Ryokatadori Kokyunage
Tachiwaza
• Shomenuchi Iriminage, Kotegaeshi, Kaitennage
• Ryotedori Shihonage
• Katatedori Kotegaeshi
• Morotedori Ikkyo
• Ushiro Ryokatadori Ikkyo thru Sankyo
• Tsuki: 3 variations
• Aidori Koshinage
• Katatedori Koshinage
Jiyuwaza with two uke
Randori with three uke
Kokyuho

 

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cynthia

 

Be like Nature

Motomichi Anno Sensei

joey

1st Kyu (brown belt)

Includes proficiency of all previous kyu requirements. Where appropriate, techniques should be demonstrated from irimi and tenkan, omote and ura.

Suwariwaza

• Shomenuchi Iriminage, Kotegaeshi
• Katamenuchi Ikkyo – Yonkyo
• Yokomenuchi Ikkyo – Yonkyo

Hanmihandachi

• Ushiro Hijidori Kotegaeshi
• Ushiro Ryokatadori Sankyo
• Ushiro Tekubidori Shihonage
• Ushiro Kubishime Kokyunage
• Ushiro: 5 variations any Ushiro attack

 

Tachiwaza
5 variations: each attack including Koshinage

• Tsuki (including Tsuki to face and  Kaitennage)
• Shomenuchi
• Yokomenuchi
• Morotedori
• Ryotedori
• Katamenuchi Iriminage
• Tsuki Kaitennage
• Morotedori Koshinage

Tantowaza: attacks from Tsuki, Shomen, Yokomen, slash and from behind


Jiyuwaza with three uke
Randori with three uke
Kokyuho

stuber

Why I practice Aikido

I practice Aikido because when I walk into the dojo, my problems
are outside, and here I get to train and be free. Aikido helps me defend
myself if I have a problem out in the real world, and gives me a wide
amount of knowledge about how to ground myself when I am frustrated.
I practice Aikido because it helps me recognize that everybody
deserves the same amount of love and everybody is equal. Aikido helps
me get the flow of energy and movement without hesitation. Aikido
means so much to me. Not only does Aikido teach me how to defend
myself, but it also teaches me that everyone comes to this world for a
purpose, even those who do awful things. I practice Aikido in the love
I have for Helmut and Kimberly Sensei and all of my friends here. All
of them are family to me. Aikido helps me not hurt people when I get
really mad at them, to get in my center and try to stay there. So far I
have learned that being out of my center is ok, as long as I know how
to find it later on. Every time we bow in and out of class, I whisper to
myself I am deep in the earth, I am deep in the earth, I am deep in the
earth.

Katherine Stuber, Age 10

anne
Glossary of Aikido terms
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KIMBERLY RICHARDSON SENSEI,  Chief Instructor

Kimberly Richardson Sensei — MA, LMT and
6th degree black belt — began her 29 years of
training with Mary Heiny Sensei. Determined
athleticism, psychotherapy practices, body
work training and energy awareness skills are
key elements of her spirited teaching. She has
studied throughout the United States, Canada
Europe and Japan, notably with Saotome, Ikeda, Dobson, Anno and Read Senseis. In addition to her extensive studies she has acted as the chief instructor for the Apple Computer Aikido School in Cupertino, California and at Seattle School of Aikido.

In 1995, Richardson Sensei founded Two Cranes Aikido, where she teaches the philosophy and practice of Aikido to people of all ages. As an adjunct faculty member at Antioch University she offers Aikido as Martial Art and Spiritual Practice.

There are two ways to live your life: as though nothing is a miracle, or as everything is a miracle.

Albert Einstein

 
© Copyright 2004, Two Cranes Aikido
   Revised 2007