FAQ
What is Aikido training like?
As in any martial arts system, there are both physical and mental aspects of training. The physical training in Aikido is diverse, covering general physical fitness and conditioning, as well as specific techniques. Because a substantial portion of any Aikido curriculum consists of throws, the first thing most students learn is how to safely fall or roll. The specific techniques for attack include both strikes and grabs; the techniques for defense consist of throws and pins. After basic techniques are learned, students study freestyle defense against multiple opponents, and techniques with weapons.
What's a typical class like?
Classes start with a warm-up followed by falling and rolling (ukemi) practice. The instructor (sensei) then demonstrates a technique with one of the senior students. When finished, the class breaks up into pairs or groups to practice. More senior students will typically pair up with newer students. Multiple techniques will be taught throughout the class and students will switch partners or groups during practice to help facilitate a better understanding of the techniques being taught. Techniques will vary depending on the class make-up and the intensity will vary depending on the student's level of fitness and ability to fall.
Will I learn self-defense?
Yes, our training is always done with self-defense at the forefront. Our instructors teach traditional Aikido techniques, but are always mindful of the practicality of a technique. Our instructors cross train in other arts, which provides additional insight into the value of one technique over another. There is never one perfect way for everyone in every situation. All instructors at Valley Forge Aikido keep an open mind and are constantly looking for better techniques. Our first goal in training is developing the proper mindset. We'd always like to avoid a fight, but if we must defend ourselves or our loved ones, we must be able to draw on that mindset to bring out technique when it's needed.
Do you have an introductory class?
From time to time we will run a promotional introductory class. However, we do not have a regularly scheduled introductory class. We recommend that you stop by when it's convenient for you and try a class. We will work with you to get you started.
Dojo etiquette?
There are some very simple etiquette rules in the dojo. At the beginning of each class, the sensei and the students line up in the formal kneeling position called seiza. Senior students (sempai) will be to your right. Students below your level (kohai) will be to your left. At the beginning of class the most senior sempai will call out "Shomen ni rei" (bow to the front), bow. When sempai calls out "Sensei ni rei" (bow to the teacher), bow and say "Onegaishimasu!" (please be so kind as to teach us). During class whenever sensei is presenting a technique, students line in seiza until the instruction is complete. At the end of each class, sensei and students again line up and sit in the formal seiza position. Again, sempai to your right, kohai to your left. Sempai will again call out "Shomen ni rei" and Sensei ni rei". As you bow to your sensei, say "Arigato gozaimashita" (thank you very much). Sempei then calls out "Hotagai ni rei" (bow to your fellow students).
Practice safety at all times. When a technique is being applied to you, tap loudly with your hand on the mat or on your person to indicate to your partner that they should ease up or release the tension. Always be respectful to your sensei, fellow students and to the facility. We take great strides at Valley Forge Aikido to maintain a clean and safe facility.
What is the ranking and promotion system in Aikido?
As in other Martial Arts systems, Aikido utilizes the kyu and dan system of ranking. There are no competitions in Aikido. The aikidoist progresses through the kyu and dan ranks by completing a minimum number of training hours followed by a test demonstrating proficiency in the respective techniques. All tests are cumulative. The student begins with 7th kyu and improves his or her standing upward through the kyu ranks until one reaches the 1st kyu. After passing the 1st kyu test, the student prepares for the Black Belt test, or for the rank of Shodan (1st dan). Students can continue their training to achieve Nidan (2nd dan), Sandan (3rd dan), Yondan (4th dan), etc. The highest present rank in Aikido is Judan (10th dan).
How long does it take to get a Black Belt?
If you train on a regular basis, meet the minimum time and training period for each kyu level, and successfully pass each kyu level test, you will likely be able to test for Shodan (1st dan) after four to five years of training. Your advancement will depend on your skill, time, commitment, determination and testing success.
What do I wear when training?
If you are a beginner, you can simply wear sweat pants and a T-shirt. Prior to taking your first test, you will need to purchase a typical white gi. This can be purchased through any on-line martial arts supply store. Or, just ask us and we can order one for you. Kyu rank students wear just the gi and a colored belt indicating their rank. Dan rank students wear gi with black belt and traditional hakama.
How much are the dues?
Dues are collected monthly. Contact us regarding fees. See our payment options pages for payment methods. You can train as often as you like.
Rules in Aikido training?
We have two rules while training: don’t get hurt and don’t hurt anyone!
As in any martial arts system, there are both physical and mental aspects of training. The physical training in Aikido is diverse, covering general physical fitness and conditioning, as well as specific techniques. Because a substantial portion of any Aikido curriculum consists of throws, the first thing most students learn is how to safely fall or roll. The specific techniques for attack include both strikes and grabs; the techniques for defense consist of throws and pins. After basic techniques are learned, students study freestyle defense against multiple opponents, and techniques with weapons.
What's a typical class like?
Classes start with a warm-up followed by falling and rolling (ukemi) practice. The instructor (sensei) then demonstrates a technique with one of the senior students. When finished, the class breaks up into pairs or groups to practice. More senior students will typically pair up with newer students. Multiple techniques will be taught throughout the class and students will switch partners or groups during practice to help facilitate a better understanding of the techniques being taught. Techniques will vary depending on the class make-up and the intensity will vary depending on the student's level of fitness and ability to fall.
Will I learn self-defense?
Yes, our training is always done with self-defense at the forefront. Our instructors teach traditional Aikido techniques, but are always mindful of the practicality of a technique. Our instructors cross train in other arts, which provides additional insight into the value of one technique over another. There is never one perfect way for everyone in every situation. All instructors at Valley Forge Aikido keep an open mind and are constantly looking for better techniques. Our first goal in training is developing the proper mindset. We'd always like to avoid a fight, but if we must defend ourselves or our loved ones, we must be able to draw on that mindset to bring out technique when it's needed.
Do you have an introductory class?
From time to time we will run a promotional introductory class. However, we do not have a regularly scheduled introductory class. We recommend that you stop by when it's convenient for you and try a class. We will work with you to get you started.
Dojo etiquette?
There are some very simple etiquette rules in the dojo. At the beginning of each class, the sensei and the students line up in the formal kneeling position called seiza. Senior students (sempai) will be to your right. Students below your level (kohai) will be to your left. At the beginning of class the most senior sempai will call out "Shomen ni rei" (bow to the front), bow. When sempai calls out "Sensei ni rei" (bow to the teacher), bow and say "Onegaishimasu!" (please be so kind as to teach us). During class whenever sensei is presenting a technique, students line in seiza until the instruction is complete. At the end of each class, sensei and students again line up and sit in the formal seiza position. Again, sempai to your right, kohai to your left. Sempai will again call out "Shomen ni rei" and Sensei ni rei". As you bow to your sensei, say "Arigato gozaimashita" (thank you very much). Sempei then calls out "Hotagai ni rei" (bow to your fellow students).
Practice safety at all times. When a technique is being applied to you, tap loudly with your hand on the mat or on your person to indicate to your partner that they should ease up or release the tension. Always be respectful to your sensei, fellow students and to the facility. We take great strides at Valley Forge Aikido to maintain a clean and safe facility.
What is the ranking and promotion system in Aikido?
As in other Martial Arts systems, Aikido utilizes the kyu and dan system of ranking. There are no competitions in Aikido. The aikidoist progresses through the kyu and dan ranks by completing a minimum number of training hours followed by a test demonstrating proficiency in the respective techniques. All tests are cumulative. The student begins with 7th kyu and improves his or her standing upward through the kyu ranks until one reaches the 1st kyu. After passing the 1st kyu test, the student prepares for the Black Belt test, or for the rank of Shodan (1st dan). Students can continue their training to achieve Nidan (2nd dan), Sandan (3rd dan), Yondan (4th dan), etc. The highest present rank in Aikido is Judan (10th dan).
How long does it take to get a Black Belt?
If you train on a regular basis, meet the minimum time and training period for each kyu level, and successfully pass each kyu level test, you will likely be able to test for Shodan (1st dan) after four to five years of training. Your advancement will depend on your skill, time, commitment, determination and testing success.
What do I wear when training?
If you are a beginner, you can simply wear sweat pants and a T-shirt. Prior to taking your first test, you will need to purchase a typical white gi. This can be purchased through any on-line martial arts supply store. Or, just ask us and we can order one for you. Kyu rank students wear just the gi and a colored belt indicating their rank. Dan rank students wear gi with black belt and traditional hakama.
How much are the dues?
Dues are collected monthly. Contact us regarding fees. See our payment options pages for payment methods. You can train as often as you like.
Rules in Aikido training?
We have two rules while training: don’t get hurt and don’t hurt anyone!