Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)
Joining NSW Aiki Kai
Who can join NSW Aiki Kai? Anyone aged 5 years and
above is welcome to join. No previous martial arts experience is
required. Beginners are encouraged to start at any time.
Can I watch a class before joining? Yes. If you are
new to Aikido, you are required to observe a class before participating.
This gives you the opportunity to meet the instructor, ask questions and
see how classes are conducted.
How do I become a member?
Simply:
- Visit a dojo and observe a class.
- Speak with the instructor.
- Complete your Aiki Kai Australia membership.
- Pay your dojo training fees.
- Begin training.
Do I need to be fit to start? No. Aikido can be
practised by people of varying ages and fitness levels. Training
progresses at your own pace.
Do I need previous martial arts experience? No. Most
members begin with no prior martial arts experience.
Membership
Do I need to join Aiki Kai Australia? Yes. All
students training at NSW Aiki Kai must hold a current Aiki Kai Australia
membership. This provides insurance and national membership
recognition.
What does my membership include? Membership
provides:
- National Aiki Kai Australia membership
- Insurance cover while training
- Eligibility for grading examinations
- Access to seminars and national events
- Recognition throughout affiliated Aiki Kai Australia dojos
Do I still pay dojo fees? Yes. National membership
and local dojo training fees are separate.
Uniform & Equipment
What should I wear for my first class? Comfortable
sports clothing with long sleeves and long pants is recommended. Avoid
shorts and clothing with zippers or hard fasteners.
Do I need to buy a uniform immediately? No. New
students can begin in suitable training clothes. Once you decide to
continue, you should obtain an Aikido uniform (dogi).
What uniform do NSW Aiki Kai students wear? Students
wear a plain white Aikido gi (dogi) with a white belt until graded.
When do I wear a hakama? In Aiki Kai Australia, the
hakama is generally worn after achieving Black Belt (Dan Grade).
Do I need to buy weapons? No. Beginners generally
use dojo training weapons until they decide to purchase their own.
Training
How often should I train? One class per week is a
good starting point. Training two or more times each week will generally
accelerate progress.
What happens in a typical class? Classes generally
include:
- Warm-up exercises
- Ukemi (rolling and falling)
- Basic movements
- Partner techniques
- Occasionally wooden weapons practice (Jo and Bokken)
- Bowing and dojo etiquette
Is Aikido safe? Yes. Training emphasises
cooperation, control and mutual respect. Students learn safe falling
techniques before practising more advanced throws.
Can I train if I have an injury? Usually yes,
depending on the injury. Please inform the instructor before class so
techniques can be modified if appropriate.
Etiquette
Do I have to bow? Yes. Bowing is a traditional sign
of courtesy and respect for your training partners, instructors and
dojo.
Can I arrive late? Please arrive before class
begins. If you arrive late, wait at the edge of the mat until invited
onto the training area by the instructor.
Can I wear jewellery? No. Rings, watches, necklaces,
earrings and similar items should be removed before training for safety
reasons.
What hygiene standards are expected? Students
should:
- Wear a clean gi
- Keep fingernails and toenails trimmed
- Maintain good personal hygiene
- Cover any cuts or abrasions before training
Children & Families
Can children train? Yes. NSW Aiki Kai offers junior
classes at participating dojos.
Can parents watch classes? Yes. Parents are
encouraged to observe junior classes where appropriate.
How do juniors join? A parent or guardian must
complete and sign the junior membership forms in addition to the online
application.
Gradings
How do I earn my next belt? Promotion is based
on:
- Regular attendance
- Technical ability
- Safe practice
- Attitude
- Instructor recommendation
Are grading examinations compulsory? No. Students
progress at their own pace.
General
Is Aikido a competitive sport? No. Aikido has no
competitions. The focus is on personal development, cooperation and
continuous improvement.
Can I train at other NSW Aiki Kai dojos? Yes.
Members are encouraged to visit affiliated NSW Aiki Kai dojos and
participate in seminars, subject to the instructor’s approval.
Can I attend national seminars? Yes. Financial
members of Aiki Kai Australia are welcome to attend state and national
seminars conducted by senior Australian and international
instructors.
Who teaches at NSW Aiki Kai? All instructors are
experienced practitioners who volunteer their time to support the
development of Aikido within the not-for-profit organisation.