Testing

While testing for rank is not mandatory, it is one of the many ways for students to measure their own progress and ability level. Some people train for years while never testing and others test regularly, yet both can achieve the same level of Aikido skill and knowledge. Testing does provide a path to focus ones energies and to grow. It is also an opportunity to work on technical aspects in more detail and will often help a students balance as well as his/her techniques and understanding of movement. Advancement is not merely the physical ability to perform techniques but rather a related growth in spirit and understanding of the underlying principles and philosophies of the movement.

Level	Belt Color	Training Requirements (Minimum)
8th Kyu	White
7th Kyu	Orange	2 Months and 20 hours
6th Kyu	Yellow	3 Months and 30 hours since 7th Kyu
5th Kyu	Yellow w/ stripe	3 Months and 30 hours since 6th kyu
4th Kyu	Blue	3 Months and 30 hours since 5th Kyu
3rd Kyu	Blue w/ stripe	6 Months and 60 hours since 4th Kyu
2nd Kyu	Brown	6 Months and 60 hours since 3rd Kyu
1st Kyu	Brown w/ stripe	6 Months and 60 hours, plus attendance at 1 Aikido Seminar since 2nd Kyu
Shodan	1st Black	12 Months and 100 hours, plus attendance at 1 Aikido Instructor Seminar since 1st Kyu
Nidan	2nd Black	24 months and 50 hours as assistance instructor, plus attendance at 1 Aikido Instructor Seminar since Shodan