Testing

Testing

Testing for the ranks before shodan (first level black belt) is done at TCAC under the direction of our Chief Instructor. Testing takes place  in conjunction with one of the periodic seminars , usually three times a year. (Also see the note about 6th kyu tests, below)

Testing in Aikido is entirely noncompetitive. In the test, you will be asked to  demonstrate the skills you have acquired . The ranking system is based on both a sound knowledge of specific techniques and time spent on the mat for the purpose of learning the techniques. A student’s performance as uke, the attacker, is as important as the performance as nage, the one who is attacked. We encourage students to test, because it provides focus for learning, and speeds progress.

The  minimum specific techniques and minimum practice days  are shown on the Test Requirements page. These requirements stem from the Unites States Aikido Federation (USAF), our parent organization. The listed requirements (both techniques and days) are considered minimal–you are likely to be asked to demonstrate other techniques to show your depth of understanding and your ability to adjust to changing circumstances. The content of the test is entirely up to the person officiating the test, almost always the Chief Instructor.

The  progression of ranks  goes from 6th kyu through 1st kyu, and then on to the dan ranks (black belt). At TCAC, you are allowed to wear a brown belt once you have achieved the rank of 2nd kyu.

Students who want to progress through the ranks must maintain a membership in the USAF in order to count days of practice. Additionally, there is a fee for testing. You must record your attendance on the sheet on the front desk, which is the official record of your days of practice. Your days of practice are reset to zero after each test that you pass.

Quick Checklist for testing

  • You should know the material for your test, previous tests, and probably the test above your rank
  • You must be up to date with USAF fees and dojo monthly fees
  • You should have enough practice hours and/or the consent of the Chief Instructor
  • You should pre-test with one of the designated pre-test instuctors
  • You must then fill out the test application for your rank (forms and instructions are on this page), sign it and turn it in
  • Include the test application fee with your application. Kyu rank fees are identified on the application form.
  • You should be prepared to attend the whole seminar during which you want to test
Special notes about 6th Kyu Tests
The  6th kyu test  is run a bit differently than the other tests. It was introduced in 2010 to ensure beginning students have the proper foundation for training in Aikido, and to allow a new student to do their first test after only a short time of practicing. 6th kyu tests will be done, as needed, for students who have accumulated the 20 days of practice and have demonstrated they know the test requirements. They do not have to be done at a seminar.
Special notes about Dan Tests
 Dan testing , for black belt ranks, is under the direction of a USAF Shihan (highest level instructor) with the approval of our Chief Instructor. Our Chief Instructor must be present for your test. Dan testing can be done, with the approval of our Chief Instructor, at other USAF seminars where a Shihan on the USAF technical committee is conducting tests. Since we have USAF technical committee instructors conduct our annual local seminars, dan testing can be done at those seminars. Any student who expects to test must attend the entire seminar. Here again, the techniques listed for the dan tests are a minimum requirement. There are no specific techniques listed for the 3rd dan and higher tests. The Shihan determines which techniques to call at the time of the test.

At TCAC, our Chief Instructor determines when a student is ready to test for Shodan. In addition to knowledge of the techniques, he will take into consideration your attitude on the mat toward the instructors and fellow students, and your contribution to the community of the dojo.

Although you are encouraged to move through the ranks at as fast as you are able, for many students the minimum practice day requirement will not be sufficient to acquire the skills needed to do the next test. In the event that you do not pass a test, don’t be discouraged. You will have the opportunity to test again.

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Aikido practice in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota