TESTS

​reqs by rank (click on a test):
aikido_institute_-_kyu_testing_sheets_ed.nov2020.pdf
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Promotion to the ranks of 4th Dan and beyond is only by recommendation and at the discretion of the Dan Examination Committee ranked 6th Dan or higher. The Yondan promotion is conducted by way of exam in front of the Dan Examination Committee at a TAA event .

Promotions for Godan and above are by recommendation of TAA leaders with approval by Hombu (HQ). 

Those promoted to Godan and above prepare and execute a demo in front of TAA Dan Examination Committee at a TAA event.
TESTING NOTES
  • All tests begin with Tai no Henko and Morote Dori Kokyu Ho, and end with Kokyu Dosa
  • Kihon = Basic (ie, from static position) / Ki no Nagare = flowing (ie, moving with the attack)
  • All techniques start in Kihon form by default unless otherwise indicated
  • 1st & 2nd Kyu: be ready for Ki no Nagare versions wherever applicable
  • Wherever applicable, be prepared to demo Omote and Ura forms
  • Tests are cumulative. The test may cover all techniques listed as well as those studied for previous kyu tests. It is possible you will be asked to demonstrate something not described in this test requirement document. ;)
  • Numbers in parenthesis indicate the minimum number of examples of the technique you should be prepared to demonstrate.
MORE NOTES ON TESTING
DON'T STRESS OUT
​While most think of a test as a win/lose, pass/fail scenario, students should try to think of their kyu (or dan) tests as something different.   In the dojo, a person’s name will not be posted for testing unless it has already been determined that they will be able to demonstrate the material.  With this in mind, a test should be thought of as an opportunity to show everyone what one has learned within a formal setting— more of a demo than an “exam.”

PLANNING & PREPARING FOR YOUR TESTS
Get the most out of your training by setting personal goals. Look at the requirements for the next rank and use them as training goals.  Maintain a regular training schedule, which ideally is about 3-4 times per week, and try to avoid lapses of more than one month. Also, come to class early or stay afterwards for extra practice and attention. Don't hesitate to ask a senpai to work with you; they were helped by their senpai and are willing to share what was shared with them! Finally, another great way to advance your training is to attend outside workshops and gasshukus, which can expose you to other aikidoka and other insights into techniques that you may not find in regular classes. Remember, it is your responsibility to take the initiative and practice constantly for the next level

THE BENEFITS RIPPLE
One notable benefit of testing is that the dojo will see an increase in student attendance and practice in preparation for the test.  This can be a great thing for all students as the mat fills up with energy and intensity.  A student who prepares for a test will experience a boost in momentum in their training habits, and should take advantage of this boost by continuing with that momentum after their test is over.

TAA Testing Etiquette for Seminar Dan Tests

TAA REIGI ETIQUETTE FOR TESTS AND DEMOS (OCT 2018)
Reigi is a formal system of etiquette that externally represents one’s heartfelt thoughts and respect for others…. The primary intention of Reigi is to physically convey feelings such as respect, love, friendship and so on. In cases where the pattern of etiquette is performed without sincerity, it simply becomes an empty formality rather than authentic courtesy. –Kano Jigoro
This is a description of relevant etiquette (reigi) for Demos and Tests at TAA events. It is strongly recommended that all Dojo follow this guideline so that it is second nature to all who perform tests and demos at TAA events
All those testing for a promotion or those giving a demo after a promotion by recommendation (Godan and above) are expected to clearly illustrate Saito Morihiro Shihan’s Aikido. For higher ranks (Yondan and above) this should include Katai, Yawarakai and Ki-no-nagare (Solid, Flexible and Ki flow) techniques.
 
Demos at TAA events should be no more than 5 minutes and tests at TAA events no more than 10 minutes. It is expected that more comprehensive testing will have occurred during tests for lower ranks (1st Kyu, Shodan, Nidan). 
The following details should be observed:
  1. Nage and Uke(s) should have clean, good quality (unpatched) Gi and Hakama.
  2. Nage and Uke(s) should walk out together, sit together, bow together, rise together. Uke should follow Nage’s lead. This may require practice.
  3. When bowing in, bow first to the Shomen, then the Board of Examiners, then to each other. It is rude to bow with one’s backside to the Board. When bowing out, follow the same order: Shomen, Examiners, each other.
  4. Do not bow in with weapons unless the weapon will be used immediately in a demo. In this case, take care that weapons do not clack together while bowing in or out.
  5. Arrange for someone on the side to hand weapons to participants when they are needed.
DECIPHER A​ DAN CERTIFICATE