Testing, Ranks, & Aikido Belts
Aikido exams are quite different from tests at school or university. As in school, the purpose of exams is to assess and examine students' progress in the arts and practice. But unlike those exams, grading tests are designed primarily for students. The period of preparation and practice for a test, and the 1-on-1 work you'll undergo together with a veteran student is a period of continuous development, of movement, body, mind, and spirit.
Testing Process & Procedures
Test Preparation
Aikido exams generally take place on the last Wednesday of each month. On this day there will be a shorter lesson followed by the tests.
To be eligible for the exam, the students must have the required number of days of training for their next exam. At the beginning of each month, a list of students who are eligible to test will be published in Dojo. It is the student's responsibility to prepare for the exam with one of their seniors who are able to train with them all the required techniques and principles on the exam.
Kyu Ranks (White Belts Exams)
On the day of the exam, you must complete the Integral Dojo test application and pay a fee 100 nis.
Dan Ranks (Black Belt Exams)
All black belt exams are officially recognized by "Aikikai" and Hombu Dojo (the international Aikido headquarters in Tokyo, Japan). All black belt exams will be conducted by the Integral Dojo chief instructor, Miles Kessler Sensei.
On the day of the exam, you must complete the International Aikikai test application and pay the appropriate fee for your "dan level." If you do not already belong to the International Aikikai then Check with the office to see
After the test After the test, a meeting with Dojo-Cho should be arranged to receive feedback on the exam.