Aikibudo FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is Aikibudo?
Aikibudo (Harmonious Energy Warrior Way) is the Japanese name for the training method that we practice. It comprises Taijutsu (body arts), Buki-ho (weapons use method) and Kenkojutsu (healing arts) which are united by common principles and taught in an integrated curriculum.

Is it a Ryu (style)?
No, our Aikibudo is a training method. It is the composite of traditional (Aikido and Judo) and classical sources (Kukishin Ryu, Kiraku Ryu, Tenshin Shintai Ryu) but it is not a stand-alone art.

What are the benefits of studying Aikibudo?
Beyond the obvious physical benefits, research has shown* that participation in 'martial' arts programs:
1. Boosts confidence
2. Improves self image
3. Provides strong discipline
4. Fosters relaxation in children and adults, and
5. Increases attention span and ability to focus (as well as memory and retention).
* Journal of Asian Martial Arts, Volume IV, Number 4 pp. 50-69

What is the bowing about?
Bowing is the East Asian cultural equivalent of a military salute or a handshake. In Japanese the word rei (pronounced ray) means to bow or show respect.

How about bowing to that little house? Is that some sort of religious thing?
No, in fact it is much more closely related to standing during the National Anthem, or saluting the flag. We are simply showing respect to those who were pioneers; those people who made it possible for us to practice and study these arts.

How long until I make Black Belt?
AIKI BUDOKAI only uses a belt ranking system for children. For adults we instead rely on the traditional method of conferring transmission scrolls (Shoden, Chuden and Hiden). Instruction in Shoden is broken down into five levels: (Gekyu, Chukyu, Chukyu-dai, Jokyu and Jokyu-dai) for ease of learning. Completing the minimum basic requirements for Shoden can take anywhere from 1 1/2 to 4 years.

How do the Scrolls compare to Belts?
Well, it is hard to make generalizations, but Shoden (the first scroll) is equivalent to a Shodan (first-degree black belt) in some systems.

Why do you call this 'warrior' rather than 'martial' arts?
The word martial comes from Mars the god of war. It refers specifically to things pertaining to conflict between armed, trained combatants.
'Bu' (as in Budo and Bujutsu) is often translated into English as 'martial'; this is however, not accurate. The Kanji (Chinese-derived ideograph) is made up of two elements: a) stop and, b) a spear. To be correct, Bu is not simply fighting. Rather, it is the active the stopping of violence. The term Warrior is often used in reference to brave individuals, regardless of class or profession. For this reason, we prefer 'warrior' to describe the arts that we practice.

Isn't training in 'martial' arts only for young, strong, aggressive people?
Some schools portray studying Budo (the way or path of the warrior) as being the purview of boys who like to fight. This is usually not the case for traditional arts though. People with aggressive tendencies often either quit training altogether, or begin to rethink the need for forcefulness.
As for the age issue, the founder of Aikido (Morihei Ueshiba, sensei) trained daily until his death at 86. As the body ages it loses flexibility and strength, yet because of years of diligent training, he was able to perform impressive feats, and utterly dominate practitioners, many of whom were a quarter his age.

Does training hurt? How about falling, that doesn't look or sound fun?!!? Ukemi (receiving body- falling) is one of the first skills that work on. Through practice, correct ukemi becomes such a natural reaction that you are able to do it (even on hard surfaces) without pain. Occasionally, punches do make contact, and falls aren't always perfect. However, by practicing mindfully and creating a safe, disciplined and trusting environment, these minor accidents never result in severe or lasting damage.

There seems to be a lot of material here. How long until I know Aikibudo?
The simplest answer is that because everything we do is based on sensitivity and natural movement, you already have all of the tools you will ever need. This system affords the opportunity to continually improve these fundamentals while being introduced to new skills, so depending on your goals you may wish to study for a few months, a few years, or for life.

How do I know if this is right for me?
Go to different schools, get a feel for what is out there and what has the skills, attitudes and values closest to your ideals. Our training method is challenging, and while it is not for everyone, anybody who trains regulary and sincerely can expect to see genuine development, both in and out of the dojo. We invite you to watch, ask questions and rely on your experience and judgement.