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Q. How do I contact you if I want to observe or participate in a class?
A. If you wish to observe or participate in an aikido class please either email us or give us a call at 610-489-6281. But you are always welcome to drop by!
Q. I am new to Aikido, what is a first class going to be like?
A. Since everything will be new your first class may seem awkward. The class will begin with a rei in – bowing to a picture of the founder and bowing to the instructor. This is a way to show appreciation and respect for everyone’s time and efforts. Warm up and stretching exercises will follow. Ukemi or falling practices will also be introduced. Kihon Dosa, basic movements will also be practiced. Basic movements are similar to footwork in dance. A majority of the class will be spent on waza – technique. The instructor will demonstrate and explain a technique then have students partner up and practice it repeatedly. The class will end as it began with a bow.
Q. What age do you begin teaching aikido to children?
A. Typically we begin children at four years of age. This will depend on the child’s ability to stay focused and pay attention. It is always best to bring the child or children to a few classes to see how they fare. Information on our children’s classes can be found at www.aikidonowkids.com.
Q. How often are children’s classes?
A. Children’s classes are held twice a week. A schedule can be found at schedule.
Q. What age do you begin teaching older students?
A. Our Adult program begins at age 11. Again this will depend on the maturity of the student and their ability to focus. Participating in several classes will allow for proper assessment.
Q. What should I wear for class?
A. If you do not already own a gi or uniform, wear loose fit clothing. We suggest not wearing shorts since some minor work on the knees may be required. Sweat pants and a T-shirt will suffice until a uniform is purchased.
Q. Do I need to sign anything before working out?
A. Yes. You will be asked to sign a standard Release Waiver and information form.
Q. Are there any other forms I will be required to fill out upon membership?
A. Yes. Once you decide to be a member, you will be sent, via email, a Dojo Membership Form.
Q Is there a registration fee for new members?
A. Yes. It is a a $25.00 New Member Registration Fee. Includes a Dojo patch and Starter DVD.
Q. Where do I get these forms?
A. Our Dojo Uneisha – Administrator, will send you all forms needed.
Q. Where can I purchase a uniform?
A. Uniforms or gi can be purchased through the dojo. Pricing is listed on our site at www.asahidojo.com/supplies.html.
Q. How do I know what size uniform to purchase?
A. The instructor or fellow students will assist you in ordering the correct size – based on height, weight and build.
Q. What is the schedule of classes?
A. Our current class schedule can be found at www.asahidojo.com/shcedule.html.
Q. How many classes can I participate in for my monthly fee?
A. As many classes as your schedule will allow.
Q. What is the monthly fee for classes?
A. Currently our monthly dies are $70.00US a month.
Q. When is the monthly payment due?
A. Fees for each month are due no later than the 10th, after which a $10 late charge will be applied to the total.
Q. Can I advance in the art?
A. Yes. Advancement is based on attendance, performance and understanding of the material presented.
Q. How long does it take to earn a black belt?
A. Obtaining the first black belt grade – shodan, will take four or five years.
Q. Is there a handbook?
A. Yes. Each year or so, an updated version of the handbook is distributed to all active students via email as a pdf file. The handbook outlines basic information, etiquette, terminology, ethics and all testing material.
Q. Are there fees involved in testing?
A. Yes. At each level a testing fee is required. Testing fees are listed in the Handbook.
Q. Do I need to fill out any forms to test?
A. Yes. Each student will need to complete a Kyu/Dan Testing Form. Forms can be available at the dojo or by contacting the Dojo Administrator.
Q. Is there an association or organizational fee?
A. Yes. Asahikan Dojo is affiliated with the Aikido Association of North America (AANA) Doshinkan Aikido International (DAI). Each year students join or renew memberships. Currently it is $35.00 a year for new members and $25.00 a year for renewals.. This membership is mandatory for all students who join. This yearly fee goes directly to the AANA/DAI and not to Asahikan Dojo.
Q. What is the AANA/DAI?
A. The Aikido Association of North America – AANA, Doshinkan Aikido International - DAI, is an internationally based organization, with affiliations throughout the United States. Japan, Ukraine and Hong Kong. The AANA/DAI is headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, as a non-profit organization and overseen by a board of trustees. AANA/DAI provides Aikido and Weapons instruction developed by chief instructor, Yukio Utada Shihan. Utada Shihan brings over 40 years of training experience to AANA/DAI and its programs. More information can be found at www.dai-aikido.org .
Q. Are there any events other than regular classes scheduled throughout the year?
A. Yes. We regularly schedule visiting instructor seminars, in house workshops and clinics, along with road trips and other special events. A current events schedule can be found at www.asahidojo.com/news_events.html.
Q. Are there fees involved with these scheduled events?
A. Yes. Most events will be listed with the mat fee required to participate. An Attempt to get these events affordable to all students is always considered.
Q. Is there a monthly newsletter?
A. Yes. Since 2001 we have published a monthly newsletter titled “Aikido Now”. This newsletter is sent to all Asahikan members and subscribers each month via email as a pdf file. Current year issues as well as back issues of only the previous year can be found online at www.asahidojo.com/newsletters.html.
Q. Is there any additional information to help my training?
A. Yes. In addition to our monthly newsletter, Sensei has produced a series of Aikido DVDs as well as a series of self-defense DVDs. www.asahidojo.com/art_in_motion_dvd.html. We also publish a monthly message on the website at www.asahidojo.com/monthly_message.html and use the dojo’s message board as well which can be access from any page of the web site.
Q. Will I receive any other correspondence from the dojo?
A. Yes. We routinely send emails to all Asahikan students informing them of events, class cancellations due to inclement weather conditions, updates and general announcements.
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