How does one advance in rank?
One advances in rank by periodically taking tests. Testing follows the guidelines of the United States Aikido Federation. The test consists of demonstrating a set of techniques and also, frequently, taking ukemi (being the attacker) for other student’s tests. Each test also requires that the student must have practiced for a proscribed number of days since beginning, or one’s last test. Once you have practiced the required number of days, you are eligible to test. One must then obtain the permission of one’s instructor. The tests get increasingly complex at higher ranks. To achieve the rank of Shodan (first degree black belt) one must practice steadily and seriously for approximately five to six years.
