As an Aikido student first, and a teacher. One holds high responsibility in the testing and advancement of others. Dojo testing typically consists of Kyu Rank promotions and is done by either the instructor with a Shidoin (Certified Senior Instructor) certificate and/or Fukushidoin (Certified Instructor) certificate. At Aikido of Charlotte, I have found that the caliber of our tests are very strong. Each test candidate prepares well in advance for his/her test and when it comes time to to take the actual test, it appears more like a demonstration of what they already are doing well. As you progress in Kyu rank, the number of techniques you need to perform increase as well as the level of proficiency, speed and power do the same. It’s been a delight to watch a handful of our students test in the recent months as they have all done extremely well. Finally, I have found that advancement only occurs when you are technically there, you are committed and you possess the proper attitude.
5 Questions with our Chief Instructor – Part 2
5 Questions with our Chief Instructor – Part 2 Jared Heintz: Aikido is often praised for its applicability in self-defense situations. Could you discuss how Aikido techniques can be adapted to real-world scenarios, and what mindset one should cultivate in such situations? Weiner Sensei: As I approach 25 years of Aikido practice, I’ve realized that…
Rank Testing Bowing Reiho – Advanced
Rank Testing Bowing Reiho – Advanced Andy Demko Shihan likes to say, “The little things don’t mean a lot, they mean everything”. Everyone who has practiced in our dojo or visited has seen that we take Reiho (Etiquette) pretty seriously. In all that we do, practice. Bowing. Addressing each other & more. I learned a…
Sensei
Sensei 先生 The two characters that make up the term can be directly translated as “born before,” and imply one who teaches based on wisdom gained from age and experience. In general usage, it is used, with proper form, after a person’s name and means “teacher.” In Japan, the word is also used as a…