Aikido - Grading
The hierarchical
structure of aikido follows substantially the grading system adopted by
almost all other major martial arts. The students of the art are
divided into two categories: kyu grade students and dan grade students.
Kyu grade students have not yet attained the status of dan, and thus
have not yet received their black belt. According to their degree of
experience they are divided into grades which begin with 6th kyu and
progress upward to 1st kyu. Senior students below the grade of 1st
dan(shodan) wear white belts regardless of their kyu standing. Juniors
wear coloured belts to denote their grade. Dan grade students have been
awarded their black belt. According to their experience and proficiency
they are also subdivided into grades which progress upward from 1st dan
(shodan) to 9th dan(kudan) and above. Promotion to a new grade is
achieved by examination. For each kyu or dan grade there are certain
precise requirements pertaining to hours practised, techniques mastered
etc which must be fulfilled. To sit an examination you must be a member
of The Scottish Aikido Federation.
The Scottish Aikido Federation
Aikido
has been active in Scotland since the 1960's. The Scottish Aikido
Federation organisation was established in 1984 by Matthew Holland
Shihan 6th Dan. The president of the federation is Lord James Douglas
Hamilton and Minoru Kanetsuka Shihan 7th Dan is the Technical Director.
Kanetsuka Sensei is the representative in Great Britain of the Hombu
Dojo, the international headquarters of aikido. Holland Sensei is
the chief instructor for Scotland and travels extensively throughout
Scotland, the UK and overseas teaching and participating in aikido.
The
Scottish Aikido Federation is a member of The International Aikido
Federation, the international body governing aikido throughout the
world. Holders of Scottish Aikido Federation membership are recognised
and welcomed at aikido dojo throughout the world.
The Scottish Aikido Federation teaches and promotes the spread of Aikido in Scotland.
All Dan Grade and Fukushidoin authorisation is given uniquely by Doshu Moriteru Ueshiba.
