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“Do not think that the power you have is only the power you ordinarily use and moan
that you have little strength. The power you ordinarily use is like the small, visible
segment of an iceberg. When we unify our mind and body and become one with the
universe, we can use the great power that is naturally ours. ” – Tohei Sensei

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Aikido difficult to learn?

Like any martial art, studying Aikido takes time and patience. We all learn by trial
and error, which is why you need a good sense of humor and ask plenty of
questions. It’s generally agreed that it takes about a year to become familiar and
more comfortable with the various moves. But what generally takes longer is
developing your mind and being open to new concepts. In fact it's a never ending
study. That is where your greatest advancements in Aikido will come from.

What should I wear?

We usually wear a white gi (martial arts uniform). But in the beginning, it’s all right
to wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. No earrings or sharp edged jewelry.
Higher-level students will also wear a hakama, which looks like a black skirt. A
hakama is really a very loose fitting pair of pants. But whatever you wear, please
keep it clean and shower (a must!). Your training partner will appreciate it!

What’s the training atmosphere?

You cannot learn Aikido without making mistakes. So, we believe in a relaxed
atmosphere, where questions, and a lot of smiles are permitted. We want you to
feel comfortable at the dojo. It’s an atmosphere of cooperation, not competition.
Students come in all shapes and sizes and varying physical condition. And they
currently range in age from their teens to their 70's.

What if I arrive to class late?

Sometimes being late is unavoidable. Traffic problems, taking care of kids,
working late, etc. If you're late, change quickly, bow before getting on the mat and
join the class. We want you to participate!!

Is there competition in Aikido?

While the KI Society does have taigi (kata) competitions (not required), students
do not enter martial arts tournaments. Before I started studying Aikido, I saw a
film that said there are no winners and no losers in Aikido. The purpose is not to
be better than someone else. One of the purposes is just to be better ourselves.

Are there different colored belts?

We generally wear either white or black. A white belt is worn until the Shodan (1st
degree black belt) test is passed. A hakama can be worn after passing the 3rd
kyu test, which takes about a year and a half of training. Some dojos (martial arts
schools) allow the use of brown belts, and our children’s classes use various
colored belts. There are also different ranks in Ki development, which must be
passed before certain Aikido tests.

How long does it take to earn a black belt?

About 5 to 6 years. There are about 150 arts (throws) to learn as well as
numerous taigis. You must also learn how to roll safely. Think of a black belt
more as a journey, not the goal. Remember, a black belt simply means we’re
serious beginners, not know-it-alls. Aikido, like any martial art, can be studied for
a lifetime. A few years ago, an instructor in his 90’s taught our summer camp!

So, you have summer camps?

Each summer, KI-Aikido in Maryland and Virginia sponsor their own summer
weekend camps featuring top instructors. They’re a great way to learn and meet
fellow students. We also have periodic seminars. Check the Special Events link
for details.

What if I've studied other martial arts? Will it help or hurt?

Hard to say. It depends how open your mind is. Aikido concepts can be new and
challenging. We don't try to "beat up" the other person. Many attacks are
redirected and turned into a throw, not blocked. Plus mind and body must work
together. It is not strictly physical. Don't let the ego get in the way of learning
something new.

Can I take a free class?

Absolutely! We recommend watching a class first and then taking a free class on
the next visit.

Will I practice with black belts?

Students of all levels practice together, although beginning students will not
perform the arts at “full speed.” What often appears as speed is really the result
of movements becoming second nature, reflecting the flow of KI. Respecting
each other is a requirement, no matter what the rank. We help each other learn. It
helps to leave the ego at the door. It only gets in the way.

Do I have to wait for a beginners’ class to join?

No. You may start at any time. So, what are you waiting for? Well?

Do I have to be big and strong to study Aikido?

No, if done correctly a smaller person can throw a larger person. It’s important to
practice with people of all shapes and sizes.

But I'm too old?

Says who? You'd be surprised at how much you can learn and do no matter the
age. It's not too late, but find out for yourself by coming to watch. Or take a free
class. Aikido takes patience, sometimes that only comes with age. Someone
said, "By the time I get a black belt I'll be 50!" Well, think of it this way, you're
going to be 50 anyway, or whatever age. So, why not accomplish something in
the meantime?

You talk about mind and body coordination, why? I can walk and chew gum at the
same time, what more do I need?

Mind and body coordination, in part, means allowing your mind and body to work
together to make you much stronger than you think you are. Tense movements
are much weaker than relaxed ones. How you think can affect you physically.
Tohei Sensei came up with a system to teach this. Also, please don't throw your
gum on the sidewalk. :-)

What is your philosophy of teaching?

Here are some quotes from Tohei Sensei that should help:

"Spare no effort when you teach. You advance as your students advance. Do
not be impatient when you teach. No one can learn everything well at one time.
Perseverance is important in teaching, as are patience, kindness and the ability
to put yourself in your students' place."

"Do not be a haughty instructor...Training requires an atmosphere of mutual
respect between teacher and student. If you see a haughty man or woman, you
see a shallow thinker."