Notes for Beginners
Frequently Asked Questions about Starting
- How do I start?
- Show up and watch at least one class.
- Sign a liability waiver. People do injure themselves and others practicing martial arts. While aikido does not have actual sparring, it is a physical activity.
- Monday and Thursday first class are aimed at beginners.
- Attend two classes for free.
- Pay your first monthly dues. We will prorate the first month.
- What are the club dues?
- Membership is $85 per month paid to Baltimore Aikido and put in the dues box at the dojo. Checks or cash in a labeled envelope are accepted. There are envelopes below the dues box for this purpose.
- We have a reduced rate for couples who live together: $147 for the two of you.
- The monthy dues cover the yearly dues to ASU.
- When you test for rank you will pay a fee to Aikido Schools of Ueshiba. It is $35 for kyu ranks, but dan ranks vary based on current exchange rates with Japan.
- What do I wear?
- Start with loose clothing such as sweat pants and shirt. You will want your knees and elbows covered. Please be sure to remove all jewelry.
- Purchase an inexpensive white gi. Both karate- and judo-style uniforms are fine. Start with a cheap one. You will wear it out and can buy nicer equipment if you wish.
- Once you pass your first test, you should buy a hakama, a pleated split skirt traditionally worn by Japanese samurai. Normal colors today are navy and black. They are available in different blends and weights of fabric. As with a gi, start with an inexpensive one. Prices range from $50 to $250.
- Please wash your clothing regularly. It is considered disrespectful to the art and to your fellow aikidoka to come onto the mat dirty or smelly.
- How often should I come to the dojo?
- Most people start with two to three days a week. Especially as a beginner, do not over-practice and injure yourself.
- It seems confusing, what should I concentrate on?
- The most important thing for a beginner to do is to learn how to fall easily and confidently. Then you can enjoy flying around the mat with the rest of us.
- What should I avoid?
- Over-enthusiasm usually results in beginner burnout or injury. Aikido is a long-time study. Have patience and let your body adapt.
- What can I study at home?
- What about the various weapons?
- We use wooden practice swords called bokken. Tsuba, or sword guards, are helpful and come with some models.
- Jo are slender wooden staffs that come up to your armpit or shoulder.
- Shinai are split bamboo practice swords. We use ones covered with leather, based on a traditional Japanese design.
- Do not use someone else's weapons unless the owner specifically lends them to you.
- The dojo has a few communal weapons, so do not rush out and buy everything at once. Extremely cheap and thin weapons do not usually last long and can be dangerous . Extra heavy weapons get in the way of your practice unless you are very strong and adept. All weapons break eventually if you use them. Splintery weapons are a danger to both you and your partner. Treat your weapons respectfully and replace them as needed.
- Where do I buy this stuff?
- Kiyota Company, Inc. at 2326 North Charles Street in Baltimore has a very large selection of martial arts supplies, weapons and books. It is in a basement store front. The door is sometimes locked during open hours, but if you knock, Mr. Kiyota will let you in.
Baltimore Aikido is a member dojo of Aikido Schools of Ueshiba.
Baltimore Aikido
1750 Union Avenue, Suite C
Baltimore, MD 21211
410-727-2318
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