Promotion/Ranking Process

There are several prerequisites that the Haru Yama Aikido Singapore requires before a student is recommended for a promotion:

1. Sufficient Dojo hours

2. Complete and satisfactory knowledge of techniques

3. Attendance during the Shibucho's class hours

4. Must be able to at least satisfactorily demonstrate the techniques required to pass the rank

What is the Role of an Instructor/Assistant Instructor

23. Instructors/Assistant Instructors have to be present and in the dojo for the term to be considered active for the role. There will not be in absentia roles as it is not a Title in the school.

24. Instructors/Assistant Instructors primary objective is to be able to demonstrate, explain the techniques safely and done in the way our teacher Sensei Hironobu Yamada did them so as to preserve the legacy he left behind. They are to guide juniors in a humble, non intimidating way; after all the instructor should not be about demonstrating a personal prowess but to impart knowledge/techniques done in a particular way and help others. The focus then, is on helping the juniors and ensuring that the knowledge/techniques done in a particular way is transmitted.

Observation of these forms of etiquette will help create a good atmosphere in the dojo. If the student learns and follows this guide, he or she will be able to move comfortably through any Japanese martial arts class, despite the stylistic differences found from dojo to dojo.

25. An Asst Instructor/Instructor in another school who joins does not automatically mean they are Instructors of Haru Yama Aikido.

Q1:  Are there any pre-requisites for joining? What do I need to bring? Do I have to wear a uniform to class?

ANS: 

Pre-requisites are     

1) At least 13 years of age

2) Possess a passion for learning and be willing and open to practice style taught by the late Hironobu Yamada Sensei

3) Own a uniform(keiko gi), tanto, white/red Oak Bokken and Jo for class training

4) A notebook and pen for note-taking

5) Have a Whatsapp account for access to group training materials and news updates.

Bring along your own red/white oak bokken, as well as a pen and notebook for note-taking. 

Be punctual for class. The dojo is usually opened earlier, so you are free to turn up early to warm-up/revise/discuss with the other seniors and instructors. 

For pricing information, please contact the respective CC or Instructors directly.

The Red/White Oak Bokken, can be purchased locally at SGD$60. The local bokkens are typically sourced from Taiwan. You may also choose to source a Japan-made White Oak Bokken which is typically superior in quality, balance and geometry. However, these range from SGD$80 to $120.

Q2:  Is there a code of conduct in the Dojo or rules I should take note of? What if I happen to be late for class?

ANS: 

Kindly refer to our Dojo Etiquette (listed at the top of that page).

Q3:  Where can I get the uniform?

ANS: 

Liang Seng (also has Aikido Wooden Weapons and Hakama - pants)

Decathlon 

Ting Fong (also has Aikido Wooden Weapons)

Tozando (also has Aikido Hakama - pants)

Iawata (also has Aikido Hakama - pants)

Q4:  The Aikido Terms in Japanese...what do they mean?

ANS: 

https://asu.org/student-handbook/glossary-of-aikido-terms/ 

https://www.earth.northwestern.edu/public/craig/aikido/glossary.html 

Q5: How do I tell if I come across a good martial arts instructor

Have a read:

9 Teaching Tips for Martial Arts Instructors - Clubworx 

Qualities of An Excellent Instructor|Martial Arts Teachers' Association (MATA) 

Q6: Any reference video materials on the Basics/Ki hon of Aikido?

ANS: