Testing and Promotion

Carla Jumonville testing for sandan. San Leandro Aikido Division I Training. February 2006.

Testing in the art of Aikido is an opportunity to solidify the techniques and understanding achieved through diligent practice. Testing provides the opportunity for the student to demonstrate his/her achievements and explore hidden dimensions of one’s character and personality under conditions that heighten one’s awareness.

Students are responsible for their own advancement in Aikido. O’Sensei wrote that only a small portion of the “Way” can be taught. The majority needs to be discovered by the student. Therefore: read the test requirements, train after class, and ask for assistance from students who are more senior than you. This is how Aikido has always been transferred.

Prior to a test, the student needs to ask a student who is more senior than him/herself to be “UKE”; a partner and mentor for the test preparation. Sensei will spend extra time and give individual attention to ensure that each student is properly prepared for the privilege of taking a rank examination.

Promotion in the art of Aikido requires understanding of technique, ability to properly execute the techniques, understanding of history and philosophy of Aikido, understanding of dojo etiquette, and understanding of character, before, during, and after training. With rank comes privilege and responsibility.