About the Program

The stages, ranks and hour guidelines of testing
Square - Yellow belt (15 hours)
- Orange belt (25 hours)
- Red belt (35 hours)
Triangle - Green belt (50 hours)
- Blue belt (75 hours)
- Purple belt (100 hours)
Circle - Brown belt (150 hours)
- Advanced brown belt (200 hours)
- Junior black belt (250 hours)
- Intermediate black belt (350 hours)
- Advanced black belt (500 hours)

Testing
Testing happens when sensei feels you are ready for the next level. Sensei will let you know when you're ready. Please do not ask to be tested, this is considered very impolite. While you train diligently toward your next rank here are some important points to keep in mind. Your conduct in class is very important. It is likely the first thing sensei considers when deciding if you are ready for the next level. Sensei’s expectations of you will increase as your rank increases – train diligently. You need to have trained for the appropriate period of time. The hour guidelines will give you an idea for how long it will take but sensei has the final say regarding when you're ready. Regular attendance should be a cornerstone of your training. Nothing can replace it as a key to success. You must consistently work to improve your techniques. Learning the form is only the beginning. Polishing your techniques is an on-going process. Train in the right spirit. Don't become too attached to reaching the next level. Train diligently with the principles of Aikido in mind and you will find yourself at the next level precisely when you are ready.