Aikido Student Handbook

8/6/2019 Aikido Student Handbook

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I am very pleased to introduce you to the study of Aikido. It is my hope that

this student handbook will be a valuable guide in helping you tounderstanding Aikido, our methods and philosophies.Once you begin training as a student, dont feel that you have to memorizeall the information in this handbook. It is here to help you, just in case youhave questions or are in need of handy reference material. If you have anyquestions about what you are doing, seeing or feeling as you enter intopractice with us, ask. Ask the advanced students, or ask the instructor.Asking questions is vital in helping you to understand what you arepracticing.

Respectfully,

Brian Perkins Sensei

*Shinjin (True Heart, True Mind) Aikido Dojo is an independent dojo and assuch is not under the political thumb of any other Aikido schools (dojos) ormartial arts organization(s). Politics have no place in this dojo and will not beallowed to interfere with time that should be spent training. Any affiliationswith any other martial arts clubs, schools and organizations, or associationsare based solely upon the decision of Perkins Sensei.

WHAT IS AIKIDO?Aikido is deeply rooted in the samurai warrior tradition and incorporatesconcepts from the Yagyu school of swordsmanship. It is also based upon thefounders nearly 20 year study of Daito-Ryu jujutsu which was gentled andtransformed by his deeply religious convictions and his belief in thecelebration of life, creation, and loving protection of others.Its circular movements are used to redirect aggressive and offensive attacksback to the assailant. The intent of Aikido is to subdue and control ratherthan damage or destroy the attacker. Aikido did away with the maiming andcrippling techniques of the older Japanese martial arts and replaced themwith techniques of control and compassion. It is, for example, one of the onlymartial arts recommended to parents of abusive children.Aikido is a relatively new martial art, dating from the 1920's when it'sfounder, Morihei Ueshiba (O-Sensei), began to develop what he wouldeventually call "Aikido". Aikido can mean "the way (do) to harmony (ai) with


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ki. Ueshiba's talents in swordsmanship and Daito-Ryu jujutsu can be clearlyseen within each Aikido technique. In 1924 he had an altercation with aJapanese naval officer in which the officer repeatedly tried to strike him witha bokken (wooden sword). Ueshiba was able to ascertain the intent of thestrike just before it occurred, and simply evaded the attacks without causing

any injury to the officer. Immediately afterwards, he said "I was enlightened -the source of martial arts is God's love...the loving protection of all beings".He'd found that he could not bring himself to physically harm his opponent,even after all of the training he'd had.Thereafter, to teach his concept of "harmony", he developed his Aikido bysoftening the original martial arts he had mastered which were designed tokill or injure. In Aikido, the goals are to either throw the person away or pinthe person to the ground. Aikido is not a substitute for Christianity or otherreligions, but it does maintain the high ethical standards of religion.Aikido techniques are very powerful and effective. Aikido holds can beextremely painful, but they are not designed to cause great injury. Throws to

the ground can be hard or soft, depending on the severity of the attack andwho the attacker happens to be. Most aikido schools (some may saystyles) have no competition or tournaments. Techniques are practiced incooperation with one or more partners. At this school we try to maintain thisattitude while keeping the training realistic.Aikido is a great martial art for women, children and the elderly. In aikidosize and strength are not an issue. Aikido uses the attackers own weight,inertia, strength, and energy in such a way that smaller persons actuallyhave an advantage. It may seem impossible but it is very real.

OUR PHLOSOPHY

It is often gratifying to think that an attacker deserves anything you can dishout. From both the legal and practical standpoints this is untrue. Legally, youare limited to a type and degree of defense appropriate to the incomingattack, to do what is necessary to control the situation and keep yourself andyour loved ones safe. Practically, you are more likely to face assault fromsomeone you care for, such as a drunken friend, than from a malevolentstranger.Aikido skills allow you to deal with either one, but you must practice for thatcontingency. Aikido attitudes are practical self-defense against ending up injail yourself for assault or murder. Regardless of the attackers identity, dowhat is needed to control the situation and protect all those concerned. No

more, no less.

"Defend yourself without vengeance; harmonize with any attack ofany description".

We learn and apply the skills that we use in training in our daily lives. Thebenefits of aikido are both external (physical) and internal (spiritual). Theyembody timeless strengths and values that are frequently eroded by modern


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lifestyles. The way of aikido can also be very practical, empowering people toface the challenges of life with clarity and tranquility.

TRAININGTraining is based upon a firm grasp and understanding of the foundation orbasics of Aikido. I can't stress enough the importance of the basics! Anotherarea which is sometimes grossly misunderstood and ignored is the role ofuke (the student attacking). If uke consistently gives half-hearted, sloppyattacks, all you will learn is how to give sloppy, half-hearted defensivetechniques. Unfortunately, in the many years of teaching and training invarious styles of martial arts, I have seen time and time again unfocused andunrealistic attacks in classes where nothing was ever really accomplishedbecause of the lack of intent from uke. Focused attacks with intent while

training are of great importance while training in Aikido.As with the weapons training within aikido, the empty hand techniquescontain an almost endless combination of attacks and defensive techniquesto master. Underlying all practice is the study of body awareness, bodymovement, hand/eye co-ordination and realism. Training in empty handtechniques is done in the same fashion as weapons training. Students beganat a slow, strong pace, gradually increasing the speed and power dependingupon the skill level of the individual. The instructor will choose thetechniques to practice in the class according to the curriculm. The instructormay look at different defenses for a single attack or at different attacks thata single defense may work with. Class is typically split into empty hand

techniques and weapons work.

COMMON CHALLENGESEvery student is encouraged to practice at their own pace and level.However,many beginners will experience some common difficulties that can be part ofstarting the training.The first difficulty is simply being a beginner. Everything will seem strangeanddifficult, and you will feel clumsy and out of place. Dont worry. Beginners

aresupposed to be beginners. The advanced people will welcome theopportunity to helpyou with your practice, just as they were helped when they were beginners.Beginners often feel uncomfortable being attacked or acting the role of theattacker. However, the attack/defense process is a model for all of lifeschallenges, andlearning to handle feelings of discomfort in training is a way of finding how to


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handle some oflifes more difficult moments.We practice using pre-arranged attack/defense movement routines. These"kata" aremeant to create a safe practice situation in which you can learn the basics,

so that youhave general patterns which you can intuitively and spontaneously modify tofit thespecific requirements of a real attack. Kata are not meant to be actualcombat.Some beginners have a hard time accepting corrections to their techniques.Try not to be ashamed of making mistakes. During practice, the instructorwill ask people to help demonstrate the techniques to be practiced. Ofcourse, someone has to act the role of the attacker inorder for the instructor to demonstrate the defense. Many people feel shyabout

demonstrating in front of the class, but everyone gets used to it. It is anopportunityto participate and learn, but you can always ask not to be used if it makesyou toouncomfortable. Another area of confusion has to do with individual learningstyles. Everyone isdifferent, and each person learns and teaches in his or her own unique way.You may findthat some styles of practice dont seem to speak to you and you may feellike avoidingthem. Sometimes it is right to follow your intuition and practice the way you

knowyou need to. However, if you avoid everything that is unfamiliar andconfusing, youwill miss out on new possibilities. Sometimes it is right to practice what youareshown, even when you dont understand it or agree with it. Normally, properclassetiquette is to practice respectfully whatever is being taught in class.If you are engaged in a practice that you feel is more than you can handle,youhave options. In most situations, the problem can be solved by asking your

partnerto go easier. But if this does not help, you can simply excuse yourself andmove topractice with another partner or sit out the particular practice that is difficultfor you.At the next immediate opportunity, you can resume normal practice.If there is some part of the practice that is too uncomfortable, talk with theSensei or the advanced students about it and they will help you find a way to


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deal withit. You may wish to put off doing that part of the practice until you have moreexperience. Usually it is possible to modify the training and make it moresuitable for your stage of practice. In any case, as a beginner, you will neverhave to

do anything that you dont want to, and you will never be made fun of.If you experience a problem or conflict with a specific person during practice,you should talk with Sensei directly about it, or you could talk with seniorstudents ifyou would find that more comfortable. You could also arrange a meetingbetween youand the other person, with Sensei present to help. Ask questions. If you havedifficulties, talk with a senior student or an Sensei off the mat when fullattention can be given to your concerns. Most of all, dont let the difficultiesget you down...YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

ADULT/BEGINNERS CLASSESDesigned to give new students a strong foundation on which to develop theirtechnique. Emphasis is on learning how to roll and take falls (ukemi),footwork, basic techniques (kihon waza) and principles of Aikido (balancebreaking, centering, extension).

CHILDRENS/TEENS CLASSESKids start out by learning the basics. A strong, solid foundation in the basicsis stressed from day number one. They are taught the foundation of Aikidothrough games and activities that keep them engaged They learn how to

avoid conflict and become aware of their surroundings. At the same time itpromotes the development of important social skills as they work with oneanother. The training enviroment emphasizes safety within a friendly andrespectful atmosphere. Through a set of warm up exercises and Aikidotechniques children and teens improve their awareness and attention,balance and strength. Physical and mental discipline, as well as confidence,character and respect for others, grow with each passing month.All of the children and teens are encouraged to perform within their level ofcomfort and ability, but with strict attention and correctness of form. Inmaking this a part of every class, we ensure safety and continuingimprovement of the students range of motion and flexibility. Next students

move to practicing their forward and backward rolls. Students then begin towork in pairs, practicing attacks and throws that have been taught by theinstructor. In working together they are taught from the very first techniqueto value safety and the safety of their partner. Such awareness allows olderstudents to work with and help the very youngest of students. Respect forpeers, instructors and students is always expected, encouraged anddemonstrated. The behavioral rules within the dojo are few and simple tolearn. Over time students will learn them from their senior students or


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instructors. As with all things learned, these new skills will be carried out thedoors of the dojo, to family, school and community.

FEES

Class fees are paid for the month at the beginning of each month. If you joinin themiddle of a month, that month is prorated, but after that you will beexpected to payfor the whole month even if you will be practicing for only part of it. Classfees are $60.00 per month per adult. Childrens/Teens classes are $50.00 perchild per month. For information about family rates please contact theSensei. There is also a discount for those who pay three monthsUNIFORMS/CLOTHINGFew Aikido schools require that have a uniform at your first class or classes.

At Shinjin Aikido Dojo you are welcome to wear any comfortable sportswear.Please consider that jeans may greatly restrict your motion and that you willbe in positions where big, baggy shorts were never meant to be viewed.Sweatpants provide freedom of motion and will protect your knees fromabrasion on a canvas mat or from sticking to a vinyl one. A long-sleeved t-shirt will protect your elbows and forearms. For attacks and grabs, however,shirts that are too stretchable or flimsy will be a problem to you and to yourtraining partner. You should plan on purchasing a uniform within or slightlyafter your first months classes.Typically there are two kinds of uniforms available for purchase online orfrom martial arts stores /sporting good stores. These are...

1. The heavy-weight Judo style uniform2. The lighter karate style uniformEither is acceptable for class. Both have advantages and disadvantages. Feelfree to talk to Sensei about choosing a uniform if you are unsure which typewould be most beneficial to you or your child.

PRACTICE / EXERCISES TO PERFORM AT HOMEMany students ask what they can practice when they are not on the mat.There are countless numbers of drills and exercises that you can perform at

home that will aid you in your study and advancement. Doing the basicstretching and breathing exercises at home will significantly improve yourpractice. Likewise, paying attention to balance, centering and movement inall your daily tasks will be very helpful. There are numerous weapons drillsthat you can perform at home that are highly recommended. Feel free to talkto Sensei about different training methods and training devices that you canimplement at home.


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DOJO RULES / SAFETY GUIDELINES*A copy of these rules and safety guidelines will be displayed near the doorwithin the dojo.

1. No horseplay or loud, boisterous behavior permitted.

2. No swearing or foul language.

3. No student shall be under the influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs. If astudent is discovered to be under the influence of any such substance thewill be immediately dismissed from class. If the student is in child/teen classand their parent(s) are not present, the parent or legal guardian will becontacted immediately so that the student may be removed from the school.

4. No illegal drugs/alcohol will be allowed in this dojo, or on this property.

5. Absolutely no sexual harassment of any kind will be tolerated. Thisincludes dirty jokes, cell phone images, etc. If a student or parent has anyquestions of concerns regarding this subject within the dojo please bring it to

the attention of the sensei as soon as possible.

6. Long hair shall be worn in a suitable fashion for practice (put in braids orponytails).

7. No jewelry shall be worn during practice (necklaces, earrings, etc.)

8. All students shall bow to the shomen upon entering and exiting the dojo.

9. All students shall bow to the shomen upon getting on or off the mat.

10. Students shall act in a courteous and respectful manner to instructors,their training partners and guests. Rude, insolent behavior and talking backwill not be tolerated.

11. Good personal hygiene is expected of every student. This includescommon sense things such as keeping fingernails and toenails trimmed,showers, etc.


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12. Keep your uniform clean and folded in the required manner. Do not cometo class with your uniform wadded up in a ball in your duffel bag.

13. Cell phone use, as expected, is frowned upon during class. Some

individuals for whatever reason, and for whatever purpose may need toleave their cell phones on. If this is the case please discuss it with Senseibefore class starts as it is very annoying and distracting to others to havecell phones ringing all throughout the duration of class.

14. There will be no intimidating or bullying of other students.

*****It is of great importance that parents, and or students come to me ifthere are ever any questions or concerns. If there is an issue that needs tobe addressed, I will address it A.S.A.P.! However, I cannot give it the

attention it deserves if I am unaware there is an issue. I have an open doorpolicy and if a parent needs to speak with me and is unable to do so duringclass, they are always welcome to contact me at anytime by phone.*****

INJURIESInjuries occasionally occur. If you are injured, make sure to inform theinstructor, both of the injury and the circumstances which led to the injury.Make sure to seek appropriate medical care when needed. Use commonsense when injured. Do not continue to train in any instance where it maymake the injury worse. The instructor will determine whether or not the

student may continue to train during that class depending on his assessmentof any injury.

HEALTH AND SAFETYFor safety reasons, you must remove rings, jewelry and such. It is importantthat you trim your finger and toe nails short. However, precautions areimportant in dealing with all diseases. You are responsible not only for yourown health and safety but also for the healthand safety of your training partners. If you know or suspect that you haveany illnesswhich might affect or infect others, or which might impair your ability to train

safely,you have the obligation to refrain from training until you are not a risk toothers oryourself.

POLICY ON BLOOD-BORNE PATHOGENSEvery once in a while, someone will get scratched or cut during practice andbleed. We


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have adopted a policy to minimize the risk of transmission of HIV, Hepatitis-B, andother blood-borne diseases. It is important to realize, however, that currentmedicalevidence suggests that the risk of transmission of HIV during the type of

body contactthat occurs in this training is extremely slight. Organizations such as theNCAAand the U.S. Olympic Committee have concluded that persons infected withblood bornepathogens should not be barred from participating in contact sports. Theseorganizations have concluded that the already-slight risk of transmission ofHIV andother blood-borne diseases can be reduced further by adoption of the CenterforDisease Control universal precautions with regard to exposed body fluids.

In the dojo, we will observe these universal precautions. This means thatinstructors and students shall treat all exposed blood as if it were infected.First aid supplies will be available for most minor injuries (cuts, scratches,etc.).The following measures will be observed at all times:

1. Preparation for training:The most frequent points of contact betweentraining partners are the hands. Other exposed parts of the body, which aresubject tothe risk of cuts and abrasions, are the feet and the area of the face and neck.For thesereasons special precautions must be observed. Inspect the exposed parts of

yourbody prior to training to ensure there are no breaks in your skin such asabrasions,open cuts or sores. If you have any breaks in your skin, clean them with asuitableantiseptic and cover them securely with a leak-proof dressing before comingon thetraining mat. Make sure that breaks in your skin stay covered while you aretraining.Suitable taping, gloves or socks will be necessary. If you notice that someoneelse has

an open cut or sore, immediately advise them of the fact and cease trainingwith theindividual until the appropriate covering is in place. If the person does notimmediately remedy the situation, notify the class instructor immediately.Inspect your hands and feet to ensure that your fingernails and toenails aretrimmed and smooth.

2. Procedure for wounds incurred during training: If a wound becomes


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uncovered, is open, or is bleeding even to a minor extent during training,immediatelystop training and leave the mat until the bleeding stops and the wound issecurelycovered as described above. If you need assistance in stopping the bleeding

andcovering the wound, each person assisting you shall wear a pair of latexgloves(available in the first aid kit). All used gloves and bloody cloths or dressingswill beplaced in a leak-proof plastic bag and disposed of carefully. Hands shall bewashed withsoap and hot water immediately after gloves are removed. Minor bloodstains on uniformswill be treated with the disinfectant solution kept by the first aid kit. If thereare major

blood stains, the uniform shall be removed immediately, placed in a leak-proof container,and handled carefully until it can be laundered or disposed of. There are NOexceptions!

3. Procedures for contact with anothers blood: If you come intocontactwith your practice partners blood, immediately alert your partner to the factthatthey are bleeding, leave the mat and follow appropriate disinfectantprocedures. If you

do not know who is the source of the blood, immediately locate theindividual who isbleeding. Then both of you should leave the mat and follow appropriatedisinfectantand protection procedures.

4. Procedures for blood on the mat:The partner of the bleeding personshould stand by the blood and ensure that other students do not come intocontactwith the blood on the mat. The bleeding person should leave the mat toattend to the

bleeding. The blood, regardless of amount, should be cleaned upimmediately bywiping down the exposed surface with the disinfectant solution provided forthatpurpose. Each person assisting in this task shall wear latex gloves and shalldispose ofthe gloves and clothes used for the cleanup in the manner described above.Upon


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completion of the cleanup, immediately after gloves are removed, eachassisting personshall wash his or her hands with soap and hot water.

CURRICULUMPlease note: Only registered members will have access to the full curriculumwhich shows hours required for training and in depth listings of techniquesrequired for each rank. The following is a general outline of the overallsyllabus.

(Mudansha/Undergraduates): all students under black belt rank.

5th gokyu: (white belt)Ukemi (rolling, breakfalls and falling safely).Shikkyo (forward and backward).Kamae (postures)Tenkan (left & right)Forward foot Irimi (left & right)Irimi ashiChudantsukiShomenuchiYokomenuchiTai sabaki: with partner for chudan, forward foot (omote) back foot (omote).Ai hanmi katate dori: forward foot (omote) back foot (omote).KaitenUchi kaiten exerciseTenkan ura (backfoot irimi tenkan, stepping behind).Tai sabaki with partner for jodanAi hanmi katatedori: forward foot irimi (omote), back foot irimi (omote).Gyakyu hanmi katatedori: front foot irimi (omote), back foot irimi (omote).Kaiten: uchi kaiten exercise.Tenkan: stepping forward with forward foot breaking partners grip.Soto kaiten (omote)Soto kaiten tenkanShiho-nage: ai hanmiShiho-nage: gyakyu hanmi


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4th yonkyu: (yellow belt)All of the above, plus the following:Tachiwaza shomenuchi ikkyoTachiwaza katatedori nikkyo

Tachiwaza yokomenuchi shiho-nageTachiwaza kokyu-nage (2 attackers)Suriwari kokyo-hoBukiwaza : 31 jo kata, 7 ken suburi

3rd sankyu: (green belt)Tachiwaza shomenuchi: ikkyo, nikkyo, sankyo, yonkyuSuwari waza shomenuchi: ikkyo, nikkyo, sankyo, yonkyuTachiwaza ryotedori shiho-nage, tenchi-nageTachiwaza yokomenuchi shiho-nage

Tachiwaza shomenuchi irimi-nage, kote-gaeshiTachiwaza kokyu-nage (2 attackers)Suriwaza ryote dori, kokyu-nageBukiwaza: 31 jo kata (including paired kata), 13 jo kata, 20 jo kata, 7 kensuburi

2nd nikyu: (purple belt)All of the above, plus the following:Tachiwaza shomenuchi ikkyo, nikkyo, sankyo, yonkyuSuwari waza shomenuchi ikkyo, nikkyo, sankyo, yonkyu

Suriwaza katatedori ikkyo, nikkyo, sankyo, yonkyuHanmi-handuchi katatedori shiho-nageTachiwaza shomenuchi irimi-nage, kote-gaeshiTachiwaza chudantsuki irimi-nageTachiwaza katatedori irimi-nage, kote-gaeshi, kaiten-nageTachiwaza katatedori jiyuwazaTachiwaza ryotedori tenchi-nageTachiwaza kokyu-nage ( 3 or 4 attackers, jiyuwaza)Suriwaza kokyu-hoBukiwaza: 31 jo kata (including paired kata), 13 jo kata, 20 jo suburi, 7 kensuburi, 3 tanto dori.

1st ikkyu: (brown belt)All of the above, plus the following:Tachiwaza katate dori kiiyo, nikkyo, sankyo, yonkyuSuriwaza katate dori ikkyo, nikkyo, sankyo, yonkyuSuriwaza yokomenuchi ikkyo, nikkyo, sankyo, yonku


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Suriwaza ushiro ryotedori ikkyo, nikkyo, sankyo, yonkyuSuriwaza yokomenuchi gokkyuHanmi-handachi ryotedori shiho-nageSuriwaza ryotedori shiho-nageTachiwaza shomenuchi irimi-nage, kote-gaeshi, kaiten-nage

Tachiwaza chudantsuki irimi-nage, kote-gaeshi, kote-gaeshi, kaiten-nageTachiwaza katatedori irimi-nage, kote-gaeshi, kaiten-nageTachiwaza ryotedori tenchi-nageKatate dori, ryote dori, morote jiyuwazaTachiwaza suwari kokyu-hoTachiwaza suwari kokyu-nage (4 attackers)Bukiwaza: 1 paired kata, 13 jo kata, 20 jo suburi, 7 ken suburi

(Yudansha/Graduates): 1st degree black belt and above.

*Requirements for the rank of shodan and above are available only to

students who have reached ikkyu (brown belt).

SHODAN: (1st degree black belt)NIDAN: (2nd degree black belt)SANDAN: (3rd degree black belt) YONDAN: (4th degree black belt)GODAN: (5th degree black belt)ROKUDAN: (6th degree black belt)SHICHDAN: (7th degree black belt)HACHIDAN: (8th degree black belt)

RANK & TESTINGRank is not important in and of itself. Taking a test is a valuable opportunitytopractice harder and consolidate your understanding of and skill in thetechniques thatare part of your test. After gaining enough practice time to meet theminimum test requirements,

students are welcome to apply to take a test. Note that the hours requiredfor a test arecounted from the last test. Note that any given student may need more thanthe minimumnumber of hours to be comfortable and skilled enough with the techniques,and theinstructor may ask students to continue practicing until they are truly readyfor the


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test rather than allowing them to takes tests for which they are not ready.Preparation for a test consists of practicing the specified techniques afterclassand during the free practice period. Remember to review all the techniquesfor the

earlier tests you have taken. You can ask the higher ranked students or theinstructor for help in refining your techniques. It is helpful to practice with asmanypeople as possible since each person will contribute something a littledifferent to yourunderstanding of the techniques. You will be ready for the test when youhaveattained a certain fluidity and comfort with the execution of the techniques.Note that there are many correct ways of executing techniques of aikido. Theinstructors, in accordance with the standards put in place by Sensei, havedesignated the appropriate test versions of the required techniques. If there

are questions about the techniques, ask the black belts, or ask Sensei.Testing involves more than just the physical execution of the techniques. Iwant to seepresence of mind and good flow. In addition, your attitude toward yourself,toward yourpractice partners and this school are part of the test. It is necessary to havea sincerecommitment to practicing hard and doing well coupled with a healthy non-attachmentabout taking the test and passing or failing. If a person is too anxious to takethe test and

get the rank, that means they are not ready to take the test. If a studentresents or resistsbeing corrected and doesnt feel gratitude for the caring and effort it takes topoint outmistakes, that means they have already failed the test. On the occasion inwhich someonedoes fail a test, the attitude with which they receive that failure is important.Failing atest is not really a failure. It is an opportunity for self-reflection and increaseddedicationto learning. We have all been there. I myself have failed tests before and it

can be an unpleasent experience, but only if you let it. It is important not tobecome discouraged with the difficulties of polishing your technique andyour spirit but to keep practicing with enthusiasm and sincerity.In the test, I or a designated instructor will look for a number of elements inyour executionof the techniques. Some of these elements include, but are not limited to;(1) Correct posture.(2) The execution of the technique.


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(3) Relaxed, smooth and continuous movement.(4) There must be proper blending with and control of the attack.(5) Focus your concentration.(6) Maintain a proper balance.

You will begin each test by moving out to the center of the mat with youruke. Youboth bow to the designated instructor, then to each other. You shouldperform whatever technique is asked for, on both right and left sides, withboth omoteand ura versions, and you should continue to demonstrate the techniqueuntil askedto switch to another. At the end of the test, you bow to your partner, then totheinstructor and then move back to the line of students. Application forms willbe available for students to fill out. Fill the form at least one month before

the test so that the instructors can begin to evaluate your readiness fortesting. If you have any physical limitations that make certain testrequirements inappropriate for you, please note that on your applicationform, and the testrequirements will be adjusted accordingly.

NAMES OF TECHNIQUES/GENERAL TERMS:

ROLLS AND BREAKFALLSCorrect methods of using breakfalls and rollling techniques to practicethrows safely.

STANCES AND FOOTWORKHanmi (half-body stance, left or right hanmi)Shinentai (natural stance)Ai-Hanmi (harmonious or mutual stance)

Gyaku-Hanmi (reverse stance)Shikkyo (knee walking)*Male and female triangles*Diamond pattern*6 and 8 count patterns*Bodyshifting*Foot traps, foot takedowns and foot placement


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FRONT GRABSKatate-Tori (single hand attack)Katate Kosa-Tori (single hand cross attack)Katate-Tori Ryote-Mochi (attack to single hand with both hands holding)Katate-Tori Ryote-Tori (both single hands grabbed by both uke's hands)

Kata-Tori/Kata-Mune-Tori (lapel or shoulder attack)Ryo-Kata-Tori/Ryo-Munetori (grab to both lapels/shoulders)

ATTACKS FROM THE REARUshiro-Tekubi-Tori (rear wrist attack)Ushiro-Hiji-Tori (rear elbow attack)Ushiro Kata-Tori (rear shoulder attack)Ushiro Kubi-Shime (rear neck attack)Ushiro-Tori (rear attack)

STRIKING (Atemi/Gunting)

Shomen-uchi (front strike)Yokomen-Uchi (side head strike)Mune-Tsuki (middle punch)*Trapping hands*Closed/open fist*Percussion strikes*Finger jabs*Elbows

OSAE-WAZA AND KATAME-WAZA (joint locking techniques)

Ikkyo (first teaching)Nikyo (second teaching)Sankyo (third teaching)Yonkyo (fourth teaching)Gokyo (fifth teaching)

NAGE-WAZA (throws)Kokyu-Nage (breath throw)Katate-Kosa-Tori Kokyu-Nage Irimi Tobikomi (cross hand attack, enterby jumping in)

Shiho-Nage (four direction throw)Yokomen-Uchi Shiho-Nage Irimi (diagonal strike to head entering w/fourdirection throw)Yokomen-Uchi Shiho-Nage Tenkan (diagonal strike to head, fourdirection throw w/turn)Shomen-Uchi Ikkyo Irimi (front strike to head, first wrist lock withentering)Shomen-Uchi Ikkyo Tenkan (front strike to head, first wrist lock done


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w/turning)Kote-Gaeshi (wrist bend)Mune-Tsuki Kote-Gaeshi Tenkan (mid level punch w/wrist bend)Ude-Oroshi (arm drop)Katate-Tori Kokkyu-Nage Tenkan Ude-Oroshi (same side grab, breath

throw, w/turn & arm drop)Zempo-Nage (forward throw)Ryote-Mochi Kokyu Zempo-Nage Tenkan (both hands grab, breaththrow, throwing forward throw w/a turn.Ushiro-Nage (rear throw)Ushiro-Tori Tekubi-Tori Ura-Gaeshi (rear attack to wrists, with a turningto the rear)Tenchi-Nage (Heaven and Earth throw)Zagi Kokyu-Dosa (seated breath-movement) *Taigi #5 variations

*SINGLE STICK AND SINAWALLI

*Warm up drills*Flow practice 5 & 2*Combat drills*Attack targets 12*Postures (the house)*Defensive counters*Disarms

BASIC AIKI SWORD (with bokken)Kihon (basics and fundamentals)

Uchi Kata (striking methods)Renraku Waza (combination techniques)Suburi (1 thru 7 solo exercise)Suburi (1 thru 7 two man drill)

BASIC AIKI JOSuburi and 31 count kataKumitachi (1 thru 5)Kumitachi variationsKumijo (1 thru 7)Jo-Tori (1 thru 11)

Jo & Taijutsu (1 thru 7)Jo & Ken (1 thru 10)


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COMMON TERMS / DEFENITIONSYou dont need to be fluent in Japanese to practice aikido. You dont need tomemorizethe following vocabulary, but you will hear these words in the practice. Overtime the

words will seep into your memory, but having a vocabulary sheet will helpyoubecome more comfortable with practice.The pronunciation of Japanese words is very simple in that any word in thelanguageis made up of one or more short syllables which are generally given equalemphasis.The consonants of Japanese are usually pronounced like those of Englishexcept theR, which is closer to our English L mixed with D. (This Raito soundsmore like

light-oh not right-oh. The vowels are pronounced like those of Spanish orLatin asfollows:A - ah as the a in fatherE - eh as the e in metI - ee as the i in MarineO - oh as the o in oboeU - oo as the u in rule

SENSEI

Senseiis the Japanese word for teacher. However, it means more than justteacher. Itliterally means born before and carries with it a feeling of respect towardthose whohave walked the path of wisdom before you and are your guides now.

SEMPAI/KOHAISempaiare students senior to you, and kohaiare students junior to you. InAikido, it is traditional for sempai to take responsibility for helping kohai.Before andafter class you can approach the senior students for help with technique and

questions about your practice. It isnt an imposition to ask sempai for help. Itis partof the tradition of sharing and helping in your practice. And when you are asempai, you willpay back your sempai by helping your kohai.

Ai: harmony or love.Ki: spirit or energy.


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Do: the way or path,Aikido: the path to a harmonious spririt.Kiai: a shout in which or by which one's energy is focused.Bu: war or warfare.Shi: knight or scholar.

Shinjin: true heart, true mindBushi: warriorBushido: the way or code of the warrior.Jitsu or jutsu: techniques or practicesBudo: the martial wayBujitsu: the study of fighting techniquesSamurai: from the verb meaning to serve The warrior class of feudal Japan.Hara: the lower abdomen. The center of energy & movement.Haragei: the cultivation of HaraTanden: the haraKotodama: meditation on the sounds of Japanese syllables.

Zanshin: continuity of concentration, alertness, remaining prepared for thenext attack.Shin: mind or heartMushin: no mindTakemusu Aiki: limitless Aikido, spontaneous manifestation of inifinitetechnique.Musubi: unification of oppositesMisogi: purification practice as refinement and purification.Dojo: training hallShomen: the front of the dojoDeshi: student, disciple

Sensei: teacherO'Sensei: literally, great teacher. Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido, isknown to Aikidostudents as OSenseiSempai: senior student, one who began Aikido before youKohai: junior student, one who began Aikido after youAikikai: Aikido Foudation. Japanese umbrella organization headed by adescendent ofMorihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido.

Ichi: 1Ni: 2San: 3Shi: (& yon in some 4 combinations)Go: 5Roku: 6Shichi: (& nana in some 7combinations)


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Hachi: 8Ku: 9Ju: 10

Kyu: white belt grades

Dan: black belt grades the first black belt grade or a holder of it.Yudansha: black belt holder(s)Keikogi: practice uniformObi: beltHakama: black divided skirt/pantsSeiza: formal kneeling position.Rei: bow or salutationReigi: ettiquetteDozo: pleaseOnegai Shimasu: (final u is silent) I request the favor.Domo Arigato Gozaimashita: I am very much/humbly obliged to you.

WEAPONSJo: wooden staff approzimately four feet longBo: wooden staff approzimately six feet longTanto: wooden practice knifeKen or tachi: japanese long sword. Two handed, curved, single edged.Katana: the Japanese swordBokken: wooden practice swordShinai: split bamboo practice sword

Karambit: knife with curved blade shaped like a tiger claw.

BODY PARTSAshi: legMen: face or headShomen: top or front of headYokomen: side of headMe: eyesKubi: neckKata: shoulder

Hiji: elbowTe: handTekubi: wristKokyu: breathKote: back of the handTekatana: little finger edge of the palm, hand bladeMune: chest and stomach regionDo: trunk


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Kuchi: mouthHara: lower abdomenKoshi: lower back

PRACTICE TERMSKeiko: practiceTenouchi: gripping the swordBuki-waza: weapon techniquesBatto-do jujutsu: drawing and cutting with the sword.Kamae: stancesKiri-kata: cutting techniquesHappo: eight basic cutsWaza: techniqueKamae: a stance of readinessHanmi: the oblique, T-stance, literally half-body.

Hidari: leftMigi: rightGedan: lower level of the bodyChudan: middle level of the body.Jodan: upper level of the body.Tsugi-ashi: shuffle step entryAyumi-ashi: walking step entryOkuri-ashi: transport step entryAi hanmi: both partners with their right or left foot forward.Gyaku hanmi: one partner with left foot forward, the other with right footforward.

Tenkan: turning around to the rearIrimi: entering in a straight lineTentai: pivot from one hanmi to the other.Hantai: in reverse orderUke: receiver a person who receive a technique. It generally refers to theperson who attacksand is thrown.Nage: thrower a throw or the person who does the throw.Maai: the distance between uke and nage. It literally means Harmony ofspace.Kuzushi: unbalancing an opponents posture

Kokyu: breathing, breath powerUkemi: the art of taking falls, literally receiving body.Sutemi: (pronounced stemmy) a sacrifice technique, in which nage fallsdownto effect a throw.Tai no henko: basic blending practiceKokyo dosa or kokyu ho: partner ki practice done in seiza, practice forcoordinating breath, ki & movement. Literally, breath power exercise.


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Shikko: knee walkingHanmi handachi: nage is kneeling and the uke attacks from a standingposition. Literally, half standing, half sitting.Suwari Waza: both nage and uke are kneeling.Taijutsu: the unarmed/empty hand techniques, body arts.

Kata: prearranged attack/defense exercise.Suburi: individual practice of a single movement of the ken or jo.Atemi waza: striking techniquesHenekawaza: switching from one technique to anotherKaeshiwaza: counter techniquesTanto dori: knife taking techniquesTachi dori: sword taking techniquesJo tori: staff taking techniquesJiyu waza: freestyle defense practice, any technique may be used.Randori: freestyle attack, any attack may be usedKumi tachi: 2 person sword practice

Kumi jo: 2 person jo practice

Documents

Aikido Student Handbook