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Test requirements

Testing Guidelines:

In addition to attaining the requisite number of training hours, there are several other factors that need be met for each new rank. It is important to the instructors at Woburn Aikido that each student be making substantive progress through their training. The following is intended to give an outline of what the expectations are in order to help each student grow during their time at the dojo. Reaching the minimum required hours to test is intended to be a reflection of a student’s ability, but is only one standard that need be met by each student. It should not be assumed that by attaining the minimum training hours there is an obligation to be tested. Each student progresses at their own rate, and training hours cannot be the only measure of preparedness. Through regular practice, the student must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of Aikido techniques, as well as a grasp of etiquette and manners and the general functions of an Aikido dojo. The level and depth of understanding should grow in accordance with a student’s rank. Given the following criteria, the chief instructor will determine whether or not a student is ready to test. The time frame in which the requisite hours are met is only a recommendation up to 3rd kyu. After 3rd kyu the time frame is mandatory.

Fifth Kyu:

60 hours (3 – 9 months).

  1. A demonstration of a basic understanding of etiquette both on and off the mat, as well as being involved with the daily cleaning of the dojo.
  2. Upon completion of the minimum required hours, the applicant must submit a formal test application with a brief essay outlining the student’s goals and expectations. It is valuable for the instructor to know what it is each student hopes to accomplish through their training, and is vital for the student to begin to define their goals.
  3. Completion of the requisite hours in a timely manner, and a demonstration of a clear understanding of body art techniques and basic use of a bokken and jo. No student may test without first demonstrating a grasp of the techniques.

Fourth Kyu:

80 hours (4 – 10 months).

  1. A demonstration of understanding of dojo etiquette both on and off the mat.
  2. The applicant must submit a formal essay outlining in what way they have improved since their previous test. The idea is to show a clear connection between the goals as outlined for fifth kyu, and some progress toward reaching those goals. Goals, like most things, change. The applicant should be aware of how their goals are changing.
  3. Completion of the requisite hours in a timely manner, and a demonstration of a clear understanding of body art techniques and weapons. No student may test without first demonstrating a grasp of the techniques.

Third Kyu:

100 hours (5-12 months). Training a minimum of twice per week.

  1. Third kyu, although a middle level, is the beginning to black belt training. At 3rd kyu, each student should be showing a dedication to their training that goes beyond the casual. The applicant should begin to take on an instructional role at the dojo, and is expected to have been helping with the children’s classes for some time before their test. The applicant must be training on a regular basis and may not take longer than 12 contiguous months from the last test date to complete their training hours. If this time elapses, the student is welcome to try again.
  2. The applicant should submit a formal essay outlining their understanding of the principles and philosophies of Aikido, and how they connect with their training and with their life.
  3. The third kyu test becomes more rigorous, and the applicant must demonstrate a level of physical conditioning as well as a clear and focused mind. Making mistakes is part of the process, but outward signs of fatigue or loss of concentration will result in a failing grade.
  4. Completion of the requisite hours in a timely manner, and a demonstration of a clear understanding of body art techniques as well as bokken and jo. No student may test without first demonstrating a grasp of the techniques.

Second Kyu:

200 hours. Training approximately 3 days per week. (No more than 16 months). Minimum of one seminar during this training period.

The training time between third and second kyu can be some of the most difficult. The instructors at Woburn Aikido must be sure that each student who tests for second kyu is improving in every way outlined in this guide. Physically the student must be changing, and taking regular ukemi for the instructor is part of this training. This can be a challenging time, but also a time of tremendous growth.

  1. Second kyu begins the final level of black belt training. Upon completing the second kyu test the student may be asked to wear the hakama.
  2. Prior to testing the applicant will have been assisting with the adults and with the children’s classes, and will have begun to take on responsibilities at the dojo including organizing and running events. The student should demonstrate on a consistent basis an understanding of the rules and etiquette of the dojo, as well as a willingness and ability to help others understand those same rules.
  3. There is no essay for second Kyu. The applicant should be demonstrating through act what it is they hope to accomplish.
  4. Completion of the requisite hours in a timely manner, and a demonstration of a clear understanding of body art techniques as well as beginning mastery of bokken and jo. No student may test without first demonstrating a grasp of the techniques.

First Kyu:

300 hours. Training approximately four (4) days per week. (No more than 18 months). Minimum of two seminars outside of the dojo.

  1. The first kyu candidate should have an extensive and comprehensive knowledge of Aikido techniques, weapons techniques, and should be training in some way other than Aikido.
  2. The first kyu candidate should submit an essay detailing those things that still need to be worked as well as an indication of the progress made during training. At this stage it is important to recognize how long the journey is, as well as a recognition of how far we have already come.
  3. The applicant should be teaching extensively at the dojo, and should be responsible for several events throughout the year.

Contact Information:

Use our or contact Michael Baron by or (781) 938-0119.
Woburn Aikido • 6 Cedar Street • Woburn MA 01801