Resources for Beginners

Our dojo offers General Adult Classes most days of the week taught by chief instructor Nico Secunda Sensei, senior instructors Linda Holiday Sensei and Glen Kimoto Sensei, and a number of other black belt senior students.

These classes generally follow the same format as the Introductory class: warm ups, ukemi (rolling/falling) practice, paired practice, and sometimes group practice. Instructors demonstrate and explain, then students practice what they’ve been shown, with the guidance of both the instructors and more experienced training partners.

When newer students watch a General Class, sometimes all they see is a blur of motion. But if you look closely, you will notice students of all levels finding their own pace together; mutually adjusting the speed and intensity of their training, so that each student can practice safely and enjoyably.

Use the magic words “Onegai shimasu” to invite people to train with you. And “Domo Arigato Gozaimashita” to say thank you when the training is done.

Students of all levels train in the General Classes. Just like you, they are in the process of learning Aikido, regardless of their rank or how long they’ve been training. Your training with a diverse mix of students is a gift from you to your fellow students on the “Path of Peace”. Practicing with all levels of students strengthens all of our training. Do not underestimate your value to the community.

Quite Mind, Silent Training - The actual physical experience of training (attempting to do aikido techniuques) will teach you right from the beginning. As you pair up to practice the techniques the instructor has demonstrated, especially when working with other beginning students, it’s best not to try to teach each other with spoken words. Just move together and feel the quite taking shape at the center of your practice.

Aikido Can Be Practiced at Any Speed - It’s ok to slow people down, even to verbally ask them to slow down. And it’s okay for you to do each technique, either as uke or nage, as slowly as you feel comfortable with. Slow, steady practice will build strong foundations. Aikido challenges us to push the limits of our comfort zone. We want you to be challenged, but we also want to foster an environment in which you can feel safe in order to grow and learn.

It Is Not About Skill Level - What you can do at this point is enough. You’ve got enough fundamentals to enter the General Classes. Your enthusiasm and sincerity are what we value most. Everyone brings a unique personal element to practice. Aikido is often described simply as the art of becoming more deeply yourself.

Progress is Non-Linear - We do our best to keeps things simple. Aikido is a non-competetitive practice based on the concept of “Agatsu” which means “victory of the self”. Let patience and paying attention be part of your practice. Go at your own pace. If you stray from the present, quietly bring yourself back. Remember that belts and exams are just signposts on the journey. Set your goal simply to come to class, and do your best. Your growth in Aikido will evolve naturally.

The Secret: Showing Up - Set a regular class schedule of two to three times a week. If you come to class regularly, your skill will increase and your training will deepen.

Frustration is Normal - Aikido techniques work on many different levels and can take a long time to learn; Aikido training is a lifelong journey. Sometimes we feel stuck along the way—often just before we make a breakthrough. It is part of our practice to stay focused on our own training and not comare ourselves to anyone else. Except that everyone does from time to time, leading to—frustration! We all lose and regain our focus repeatedly—that’s why it’s called “practice.” It happens at all levels. You may often see advanced aikido practitioners get frustrated with themselves. Please be kind and respectful to them and try not to laugh (too much) if they trip over their own hakama.

Aikido is a subtle art and we all encounter real challenges in uncovering its mysteries. Embrace this as part of your learning, the polishing of your spirit. Don’t ever think you’re the only one feeling fear or frustration—you are not alone. Talk to people about what you’re running up against. Ask students who’ve been around for a while about their experiences.

“You will encounter every human frailty on the Aikido mat. Yours and everyone else’s. Whatever happens, just come back tomorrow and train.”

~ Jack Wada Sensei, Chief Instructor Aikido of San Jose

In an Aikido dojo, the observation of basic forms of etiquette is integral to the creation of a respectful and attentive atmosphere that is conducive to learning.  Although Japanese forms are unfamiliar to most Westerners, over a period of time they not only become comfortable expressions of courtesy, but also, as we come to understand the levels of meaning behind the forms, they can enrich and further our practice.  Most basic to these forms is a bow, a gesture of respect and gratitude. 

More important than the superficial observation of any form is the sincere and open hearted attitude toward training which gives meaning to the forms. In the dojo, students should observe the following guidelines:

• A standing bow is done when entering or leaving the dojo and when stepping on and off the mat.

• The formal bow at the beginning and the end of practice consists of two or three seated bows towards the shomen (front wall of the dojo, where Osensei’s picture is), four claps, one more bow, and then a mutual bow between teacher and students.  The form and complexity of this ceremony marking the beginning and end of class varies somewhat from place to place, so in the case of a visiting instructor his or her example should be followed.

• Effort should be made to be on time for class, but if unavoidably late a student should perform the formal bow individually before beginning to practice.  If it is necessary to leave class early, a student should inform the instructor and do an individual formal bow as the close of his or her own practice.

• Onegaishimasu (‘please’ or ‘I ask a favor’) and Arigato gozaimashita (‘thank you’) are the expressions used at the beginning and the end of class, respectively, and also between partners at the beginning and the end of each individual practice.

• Traditionally the instructor is addressed as Sensei in the dojo.  However, the extent to which this custom if followed depends on the individual instructor.

• The proper way to sit during class is in seiza – formal Japanese sitting posture.  A cross-legged sitting position is acceptable if seiza is impossible.  If a student has a particular problem with knees or feet that interferes with the ability to sit in seiza, make sure the instructor is informed of the problem. In any case, an attentive posture should be maintained.  Slouching, slumping, or leaning is not conducive to the practice of balance and centering!  Students should not sit with legs outstretched. 

• Students should not sit with their backs towards the shomen (front wall with Osensei’s picture); traditionally this is the place for the instructor or master to sit while watching class.  If it is necessary to pass by when people are lined up in seiza facing the shomen, walk in back of them rather than in front. 

• After the instructor demonstrates a technique, students bow, choose partners quickly, and begin to practice.  When the end of a particular practice is signaled (often with two clasps), students should stop practice immediately, bow to their partners, and quickly line up in seiza for further instruction.

• For reasons of safety, respect, and courtesy, it is essential that the teacher’s instructions be followed exactly.  Many Aikido techniques can be dangerous if not practiced properly.  Emphasis should be placed on learning as much as possible through intent observation and concentrated practice, and questions should be saved for when they are really necessary.

• Gis should be kept clean, and fingernails and toenails should be kept short.  No jewelry should be worn during practice. Do not use alcohol or drugs before class

• The mat should be swept before each class.  It is the students’ responsibility to keep the dojo clean.  Dojo literally means ‘place of the way’.  It should be a place for misogi (purification) and for our sincere personal work.

Observation of these forms of etiquette will help to create a good atmosphere in the dojo.  But more important than the superficial observation of any form is the sincere and openhearted attitude towards training which gives meaning to the forms. 

For a list of Japanese terms used in the dojo, please click here.

Misogi is a Japanese word that means “purification.” We use it to refer to the process of purification in training, and also to our system of keeping the dojo clean. 

The dojo is our training home and it is everyone’s collective responsibility to take care of it. Getting involved in its care is also a great way to become more a part of the community. You are encouraged to join the daily Misogi task of cleaning the main mat room right away.

Additional ongoing tasks in other areas of the dojo are adopted and completed by instructors and committed students of Aikido of Santa Cruz on a seasonal (three month) rotating basis. Please consider taking on one of these volunteer tasks when they become available.

"OSensei always used to say, 'Aikido is the process of Misogi, of cleansing yourself.  The dojo is like a washing machine. You put yourself inside the dojo to purify your body and mind.' So it makes sense that we would take good care of the dojo."     

~ Motomichi Anno Sensei, Senior Instructor of Funada Dojo in Shingu

You may have already been guided through the practice of Shin Kokyu in one of the general classes. This practice, which combines mediation, breathing, visualization, and movement, is a purification practice Osensei often did at the beginning of class. Its purpose is to develop a state of unity with the spirit of the universe (kami). We at Aikido of Santa Cruz continue this practice as part of our normal training.

For detailed instructions on how to perform Shin Kokyu please see the attached document here.

Tests Are A Natural Extension Of Training

Training is a long process. Each level you reach is about deepening your understanding of basic Aikido techniques, many of which you were introduced to in your first classes. 

A test is an acknowledgement of your achievements and an invitation to go further in this endless process of learning and development. It is not designed as a razor’s edge pass/fail experience. In fact, your Senseis will not ask you to test for the next rank until they feel you are ready. 

You may be asked to take a test during your first year of training. For each test, you choose a partner or “uke.” Your uke can be any student who is senior to you in rank, and they will help prepare you. 

During the test itself, your uke will bow in with you and then provide you with designated attacks, which you respond to with appropriate techniques. On tests you demonstrate a sample of what you have practiced in class. The people watching your test—your dojo community—are proud of you, support you, and respect your efforts. They will be your silent cheerleaders during exams.

Still, tests can feel daunting to people, especially the very first one for 5th kyu. Just remember; tests are simply another part of training, and you’ll do fine. 

Belt Colors And Ranks

Adult Aikido of Santa Cruz students wear four different belt colors as they progress in training and test up in ranks. The white belt for unranked and 5th kyu; blue belt for 4th and 3rd kyu; brown belt for 2nd and 1st kyu. Next is the 1st degree black belt, called “shodan.” 

At Aikido of Santa Cruz, black belts also wear the hakama, a part of traditional Japanese clothing which was worn by the Samurai. Black belt students, also referred to as “yudansha,” are happy to help out with any technique that’s confounding you, all you have to do is ask. Remember that people wearing hakamas may look formidable, but they’re just students who love Aikido and have trained a long time.

For a detailed description of the kyu ranking guidelines at ASC, click here.

“Aikido is a spiritual discipline, but the tool of this spiritual discipline is technique. The process of learning technique is what we use for increasing our self-awareness and transforming ourselves.”

~ Mary Heiny Sensei

Learning by watching class is a powerful adjunct to regular active training. Kengaku is an honorable practice. Aikido students of all levels find it surprisingly useful to sometimes watch classes as part of their training. You can come to the dojo and watch a whole class or any part of it, sitting in one of the chairs along the wall. If you are training in a class and feel that you cannot continue to the end, you are welcome and encouraged to continue the class through kengaku—observation.

We encourage you to stay for the whole class if you can, and treat watching it as a form of active participation. During your kengaku, pay attention, don’t eat or drink or read the newspaper, and please make sure your cell phones are turned off. You may find it useful to take notes.

Aikido of Santa Cruz often hosts seminars with guest teachers, potlucks to celebrate black belt promotions, gatherings of music, poetry, and art, and annual events such as the New Year’s Purification, Winter Kangeiko, Osensei Memorial, and the Summer Retreat. Your participation in these events is, of course, welcome and enriches all our training.

If you are inclined, you are also welcome to help to set up these events. It is a great way to meet senior students and enjoy some time off the mat working with dojo folks. If this sounds like something you might enjoy, simply approach the event organizer or a senior instructor after the end of class circle.

Aikido of Santa Cruz is part of a wider Aikido Community and as a student of ASC you are welcome to visit other Aikido dojos to train in classes and seminars. If you maintain a strong base of regular practice in your home dojo, then having some training experiences in other dojos can deepen your understanding of Aikido, and of the wider Aikido community of which we are a part. Please be aware that the way you training and conduct yourself in another dojo will represent ASC and its chief instructor. Be informed about the etiquette and protocols of dojo visits before you go.

Japan Deserves an Important Note! - It is especially important that you consult with your chief instructor before making any plans to go to Japan to train. Japan is the exception to the “travel freely” rule of our dojo. Japan has a formal, hierarchical culture and many unfamiliar forms of etiquette that must be respected in order to maintain good relations. As a student of ASC, you are already indirectly connected to Aikido in Japan, through the history and lineage of our dojo, senior instructor Linda Holiday Sensei, and our chief instructor. If you are interested in training in Japan, please be aware that you will need to ask Nico Sensei and Linda Sensei for guidance well before finalizing any travel plans.

With the exception of Japan, you don’t need to consult in advance with your chief instructor in order to visit other dojos, but you do need to observe good training etiquette and spirit when you go! The following guidelines will help:

Always ask permission to train; don’t assume. Training in any dojo is a privilege, not a right, and each sensei determines who may attend classes. Politely let the sensei (or senior student) know that you would like to train, and wait for permission. Of course, it is generally granted!

Call or email the dojo in advance if possible (unless you have visited several times before and you are familiar with the other dojo). Verify the class schedule, the instructor, visitor training fees; ask permission to train; ask if there is anything else you should know as a visitor. They may advise you where to park, for instance.

Arrive early for class. Leave plenty of time to find the sensei or senior black belt, introduce yourself, ask permission to train (if you haven’t before), fill out paperwork, and pay your training fee. Don’t get into your gi until you receive permission to train.

Review the basics - Wear a clean gi, take off jewelry, trim your nails, etc. It’s a good time to re-read Aikido of Santa Cruz’ Basic Dojo Etiquette and refresh your memory!

If you wear a colored belt at Aikido of Santa Cruz, be aware that many dojos use only white and black belts. It is especially courteous to take a white belt with you, and ask the sensei or senior black belt which belt they would prefer that you wear. In some Aikido dojos, hakamas are worn by some kyu ranks (as well as dan ranks). If you are only visiting, you will not need to put on a hakama unless you have a black belt.

Warm-ups - Not all dojos routinely do warm-ups at the beginning of class. Students may be expected to warm-up on their own. Good to inquire. Another good reason to arrive early!

Be a keen observer of the etiquette that is followed in the dojo you are visiting, and follow along as best you can. Ask one of the local students or teachers if you are confused. Some forms of dojo etiquette are fairly standard, like bowing to your training partners and saying “Onegai shimasu”. But every dojo has its own customs too. For instance, in some dojos, students line up in order of rank. Or stay with the same partner during the whole class. Or remain seated in line at the end of class, until the sensei leaves the mat. Just follow along and blend in as best you can...as if you were in a foreign country, showing respect to the native culture (which in fact you may be!).

Do things their way. Try your best to do the techniques exactly as they are demonstrated in the other dojo. (This is the best etiquette and attitude in your home dojo, too!) This shows a sincere attitude, and it is the best way to learn. Do NOT try to teach people “the way we do things in OUR dojo!” Don’t correct anyone or resist anyone’s technique. Stay in open-minded learning mode. Remember, you are a guest, a temporary visitor, and you represent Aikido of Santa Cruz. If you end up in a class that seems very strange to you, try to hang in there. If it feels impossible or dangerous to continue, you can sit politely on the sidelines and watch class. At the very least, it will make an interesting story later, when you return home from your adventure!

Don’t worry about impressing people at other dojos with your techniques or ukemi. The best impression to leave is one of respect and friendliness. People will appreciate your sincerity. They may decide they would like to visit our dojo in return.

Please convey greetings from your chief instructor to the chief instructor of the dojo you are visiting. Consider yourself an ambassador of Aikido. All you need to say is this: “My teacher, Linda Holiday Sensei, sends her greetings.” This simple custom does a lot to strengthen respect and friendship among Aikido instructors.

Affiliations and “style” of Aikido – At Aikido of Santa Cruz, we try to keep a broad, inclusive view of Aikido. The tree of Aikido has many branches, but they are all united at the root. As you travel, you may encounter Aikidoists who are intensely concerned with organizational affiliation and ask you to indicate your “style”. Best to smile, answer simply, and refrain from engaging in discussions of organizational “politics”.

FYI: Aikido of Santa Cruz is connected to the Aikikai through the California Aikido Association. Our senior instructor, Linda Holiday, trained in Japan at the Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo and at the Kumano Juku Dojo in Shingu. She received her 7th degree black belt from the Aikikai, through her teacher, Anno Sensei, 8th dan (senior instructor, Kishu-Kumano-Aikikai-Funada-Dojo). Both Linda Holiday and Glen Kimoto (our other senior instructor) have trained since 1970. They have learned from many senseis and have developed friendly connections with many dojos, regardless of “style”.

Aikikai membership & dan rank registration - Aikido of Santa Cruz black belts are encouraged to apply for Aikikai membership and dan rank registration through the CAA. This provides worldwide recognition of black belts received at ASC, and makes traveling easier (Please contact Glen Kimoto Sensei for more information and applications).

Japan is the exception to the “travel freely” rule of our dojo. Japan has a formal, hierarchical culture and many unfamiliar forms of etiquette that must be respected in order to maintain good relations.

Ask your sensei for advice - If you are interested in going to Japan to train, please be aware that you need to consult with your chief instructor before finalizing travel plans. Japan is a formal, hierarchical society with many forms of respect and etiquette. It is easy to make etiquette mistakes, offend a Japanese person inadvertently, or cause serious problems for others without even knowing it. Good intentions are not enough. It is important to prepare yourself well for such a big trip and special training opportunity in the birthplace of Aikido. Follow your sensei’s advice.

Japanese Aikido students don’t travel much to train in other places. In very traditional dojos, students are required to ask permission from their sensei in order to train anywhere else, and that limits inter-dojo visitation. This policy reflects Japanese cultural norms, and is likely intended to encourage deep learning, strengthen the teacher-student relationship, and minimize the confusion of learning multiple ways of doing Aikido. That is the cultural context of most Japanese dojos.

A member of the Aikido clan - You are already indirectly connected to Aikido in Japan, through the history and lineage of Aikido of Santa Cruz and its senior and chief instructors. In Japan, you will be considered a member of a particular branch of the Aikido “clan”, not a casual tourist. In Japan’s formal, hierarchical culture (and to some extent, in Aikido dojo culture in any area), you are always perceived as someone's student. In this view, the teacher is responsible for the student's behavior, and the student represents the teacher, regardless of location. If problems occur, the Japanese way is to contact the teacher. It can take considerable time and energy to resolve things, and this impacts the reputation of ASC teachers and students. Everything you do, however well-intentioned, has consequences for others. So consult your sensei and “know before you go”.

Training at the Funada Dojo in Shingu - If you are interested in visiting Shingu to train, be aware that in accordance with Japanese etiquette (and dojo cho Nakamura Sensei’s policy) you will need an introduction from your sensei to train there. Please consult in advance with Nico Sensei and Linda Sensei about your hopes, objectives, and time frame. The Funada Dojo in Shingu is in a traditional area of Japan, far from Tokyo and other urban centers. Nico Sensei and Linda Sensei will advise you about what you would need to do to become ready to go to Shingu to train.

The Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo is large, urban, and receives visiting students from all over the world. You can walk in, pay your training fee, and train, but it is still important to prepare culturally and receive your sensei’s advice before going there. ASC black belts are encouraged, upon receiving shodan, to join the Aikikai organization and register their rank. This facilitates training at Hombu Dojo and in many other places.

Most other Japanese dojos are rather private groups in the context of a formal, hierarchical society and will expect a formal introduction of some sort. Don’t just “show up”--that is not the Japanese way. Again, consult your sensei if you want to go to Japan.