Everything a new or continuing student needs to understand Aikido practice at Prairie Aikikai — from the first bow to advanced promotion requirements.
Your Guide to Training
This guide covers the essential knowledge every student needs: the history and philosophy of Aikido, the customs of the dojo, how testing and promotion work, and the Japanese terminology you will encounter on the mat. The sections are arranged in order — new students should start at the top.
The history of Aikido and its founder O'Sensei Morihei Ueshiba, the ethics and philosophy of the art, who teaches at Prairie Aikikai, and what to expect as a new student.
The etiquette and customs of the dojo: how to enter and leave, how class begins and ends, how to train respectfully with others, and the meaning behind the forms.
How rank progression works at Prairie Aikikai, from children's kyu ranks through adult dan grades — including detailed technique requirements for every level.
A searchable Japanese-English glossary of the terms, commands, and body parts you will hear on the mat — plus warm-up exercises and common phrases.
For students who want to go deeper — a curated selection of books on Aikido technique, history, philosophy, weapons, and the broader world of Budo.