Kure Beach Aikido - Information

About Kure Beach Aikido

Kure Beach Aikido
Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Kure Beach Community Center
Kid's Class: 6:00 to 6:55 pm
Adult Class: 7:00 to 9:00 pm

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Kure Beach Aikido is a club that gets together every Tuesday and Thursday at the Kure Beach Community Center. We practice Aikido, and have a great deal of fun doing it.

Aikido, which translates to "The Way of Spirit Harmony", is unique among the martial arts because it never resists or clashes but brings the opponent under control by blending with their oncoming force. Aikido's style generates from strategy, movement, and a variety of throwing, joint locking, pinning and striking techniques that require little physical strength to perform. Training stresses form, mutual cooperation, awareness of others and the coordination of the body's movement with a calm state of mind. Aside from its utility as a method of self-defense,

Aikido is a self-paced martial art.

Aikido also stresses the perfection of character and the development of positive human qualities such as compassion, courage, endurance and inner strength. In this spirit, Aikido training is undertaken to improve both the individual and society.

In comparison to other martial arts, Aikido is relatively new. However, it is derived from older traditional budo. Hence, Aikido is considered a traditional martial art and students are expected to conduct themselves in a dignified and respectful manner as if they were in Hombu Dojo.

As you progress you will be tested periodically and promoted to a new "kyu" rank (followed by "Dan" ranks). In order to test (and pass) you must able to execute the required techniques and fulfill the minimum training time.

You will be given a sheet called "Aikido World of Alliance Promotion Test Requirements" that will cover the hours and techniques required for each kyu or Dan test.

One on One training is a normal part of the Aikido experience.

Aikido is a self-paced martial art. Meaning, that you have a specific amount of "Mat-Time" that must be completed before testing. So, if life throws you a curve-ball, you can take the time to handle those things, and then, when ready, you can come on the mat and pick up where you left off.

While Aikido training stresses discipline we also want you to enjoy your time in the Dojo. Aikido has been described as "simple but not easy." You may find that some techniques and movements are difficult to learn at first. Be patient and try not to get discouraged. You will find that with practice it will become easier.

A Brief History of Aikido

Morihei Ueshiba (1886 - 1969)

Aikido, founded and developed by the late Morihei Ueshiba (1886 - 1969), is considered a modern Japanese martial art. While it is true that it is the youngest of the traditional budo arts of Japan, it is nonetheless one that is firmly grounded in ancient disciplines and timeless philosophy.

Ueshiba "O'Sensei" mastered various forms of the martial arts, most notably Juijitsu (unarmed defense), Kenjitsu (sword), and Sojitsu (spear) en route to establishing Aikido as a unique martial art. O'Sensei, a deeply religious man of the Omotokyo Shinto faith, believed the power of Aikido springs from the spiritual energy released when an individual unites mind and body, and becomes one with nature, and thus one with the universe. His many discourses on religion left many confused, but left no doubt of his superior understanding of his art.

We call Aikido a martial art, but it is important that we truly understand what this means. Although the martial, or the combative elements exist in Aikido techniques, there exists also the creative, artistic development of technique and its appreciation. This artistic aspect is also very much a part of Aikido.

Through Aikido, we learn to us the principles of harmony and circular motion to control any attack that is directed at us. We also develop an awareness of the unity of mind and body along with an appreciation for the greatness of nature and the universe at large. Thus, through our martial training, we begin to realize the artistic elements of Aikido.

It then becomes our shugyo to carry the feelings of harmony and the awareness gained through Aikido training into our daily lives. This is a natural and inevitable progression. Our training in harmony leads to harmony in our lives and this becomes the ultimate goal.

It is easy to see, then, the importance of the dojo, a place where we can be as mirrors for each other, helping each other grow and develop in the art of harmony. A dojo is not merely four walls and a mat; it is all of us together, supporting and helping each other towards a common goal, in an environment conducive to growth.

O'Sensei described Aikido in many ways and left us many techniques and methods to develop proficiency. But how can we understand what he was trying to convey through his words and actions? Words and visual experience can only describe the essence of Aikido.

To experience the deeper meaning of Aikido requires practicing regularly, persistently, and patiently. With time, our practice opens the door to understanding.

Kure Beach Aikido Dues and Fee Schedule

Dues for All Full Time Students........ $25.00 per month
Active Duty Military & Law Enforcement Due to Intermittent Class Attendance			$5.00 per class
Mat Fee Visiting Aikidoka	$5.00 per class but usually waived.	A.W.A. Dues	$25.00 per year
Kyu Level Testing Fee For A.W.A. Paperwork Processing			$25.00 Adults $15.00 Children

Here is why we can give you the best training at a pittance.

Kure Beach Aikido is a CLUB, not a for-profit business.
The instructors do NOT draw a salary or payments.
All money is used to pay rent, buy Gatorade and Water for the students for our 8:00 break.
Money is also earmarked for Sponsorships to Seminars for students at KBA.

There is NO Fine Print, NO Caveats, NO Reason why a student cannot get a $25.00 Dues schedule.

There are absolutely NO contracts... ever.
You pay Month to Month. We want you to train because you WANT to be here. Not because you are contractually bound to pay even if you do not train.

Dues are paid in advance; Due at the 1st class of each month and must be paid by the 15th to avoid a $5.00 late fee.

Fees must be up to date to test for your next belt level.

There is a $30.00 charge each returned check.

IMPORTANT BASIC INFORMATION YOU MUST KNOW

Each prospective Aikido student must complete three introductory classes to ensure that each member has a basic understanding of Aikido etiquette, safety procedures, some basic techniques and exercises and to see if Aikido is the style for you.

Aikido belt test fees are $20.00 for 7th kyu through 1st kyu. Payable to the Aikido World of Alliance
Certificates are awarded for each rank.

Aikido uniforms (judo gi) may be purchases locally from Kure Beach Aikido. White uniforms only! White T-Shirts Only or Sports Bras for the ladies should be worn underneath. Until a uniform is obtained, one may wear sweats, stretch or loose-fitting clothing.

Membership in the Aikido World Alliance is $25.00 is included in your 1st Testing Fee. Once you have completed your First Belt Test you will receive an AWA Passport and AWA Membership number.

GENERAL INFORMATION

What is Aikido?
Aikido is a Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba (whom Aikido students refer to as “O-Sensei” or “Great Teacher”). O-Sensei was a major figure in the history of martial arts, and his work in the past century was in many ways a quantum leap in the evolution of martial arts.

What kinds of things does one learn in Aikido?
Students of Aikido practice how to use their body and mind in a natural and optimally efficient way. Aikido includes many responses to different types of attacks including throws, holds, joint locks, pins, and disarming techniques. In addition to unarmed training, Aikido practice also includes learning how to use weapons such as the bokken (wooden sword), jo (wooden staff) and tanto (wooden knife). Many observers perceive elements of other martial arts when watching an Aikido class; however Aikido has many unique technical features including a particular approach to using movement, timing, and reaction. In the course of practicing its vast number of techniques and situations Aikido also develops judgment, balance and increased awareness.
How is Aikido different from other martial arts?
Aikido is different in many ways. First, one can distinguish in general the old versus new martial arts. Older forms of Japanese martial arts focused almost entirely on fighting techniques. Their names often include the suffix “jitsu” which means technique, for example jujitsu, or kenjitsu. The modern martial arts, of which Aikido is one, add the idea of personal development as well as many of them contain the last Japanese character “do” which translates as “path”.
Beyond that, Aikido has a unique character that can be seen in its approach to martial arts training. Unlike most martial arts, Aikido has no competition. Students work cooperatively to improve their understanding and execution of the techniques. Aikido focuses on the art of efficiently moving oneself and one’s opponent, and conversely, on safely receiving the power of the opponent . A relaxed body is necessary to learn this skill, and this is best developed by cooperative practice. For similar reasons, there are no tournaments or contests. Instead, Aikidoists gather at large practice sessions and seminars where everyone trains together.
Another example of Aikido’s unique approach is that Aikido does not emphasize strikes, except insofar as they are integrated into techniques as part of the total body movement. While knowledge of other martial arts doesn't detract from Aikido training, the student of Aikido must learn a significantly different approach to training.

What do people expect to gain as a result of training in Aikido?
Aikido is an endeavor with many features, and consequently, the reasons for practicing can vary. Some people want to learn self-defense, others movement. Some have heard of the idea of “turning the energy of the attack against the attacker”, while others are interested in the translation of philosophy into physical movement. Some people do it simply for exercise. One common theme is that Aikidoists enjoy practicing in itself, and the sense of well-being and centeredness that comes with it, as well as the challenge of learning Aikido’s complex techniques. It is difficult to say what benefits it will bring until one actually begins.

Who can practice Aikido?
Aikido is available to almost anyone who wants to learn it. Aikido practitioners range from 5 years old to eighty. Like most Aikido dojos, we have children’s classes for younger students to get them started. The adults program includes everyone else.
No previous martial arts experience is necessary, nor does one have to be in top physical condition. Aikido practice will gradually increase one’s strength and flexibility.
If you have particular physical problems, you should first talk to your doctor, and then with the Chief Instructor. In general, since a beginner practices at a slow and easy pace, it is usually possible for you to determine for yourself, in the process of Aikido practice, if the problem is manageable or not, without risking any serious injury.

Does Aikido work?
Aikido is a martial art, and as such, a fundamental requirement is that it works as a self-defense system. It is rooted in the pragmatic study of martial effectiveness. However, its sophisticated techniques take a long time to learn, and one should not expect instant proficiency.

What does “Aikikai" mean?
Aikikai means “Aikido organization”. It signifies in a general way the style of Aikido training of those who follow O-Sensei. The Aikikai Foundation is the official name of Aikido World Headquarters in Tokyo, where O-Sensei taught, and where his son was and now grandson is the chief instructor. It therefore signifies the Aikido lineage and style that Akido World Alliance schools teach and is generally considered the most authentic transmission of O-Sensei's teachings.

What is Iaido?
Iaido is a martial art evolved from traditional Japanese swordsmanship. The art began to be taught publicly in the 1800's but dates far back in Japanese history. It focuses on techniques of drawing, cutting, and re-sheathing the sword, in a multitude of situations.
Iaido is a separate yet complementary martial art to Aikido. While Aikido practice includes weapons training, especially the use of the bokken (wooden sword) and jo (wooden staff), learning how to handle a sword can provide additional insight into Aikido. Some fundamental similarities are the emphasis on being "present" (or focused) in a relaxed state, using proper body mechanics and breath control. If you find a school that teaches this, it would probably be a good idea to look into it to further your understanding of the sword arts.

BEGINNING IN AIKIDO

How do I get started?
Typically, one would come to the next available class in sweats and a t-shirt and give it a try. We want to make sure Aikido is the right martial art for you, so we offer a three-class intro. The intro will give you an overview of the art of aAikido, etiquette on the mat, method of training, with extensive instruction on training safely. Aikido is NOT for everyone. However ANYONE can practice. It is all a personal choice if Aikido suits your lifestyle and mindset. If you feel Aikido is right for you, then you can sign up at any time and begin practice immediately. However, because it usually takes two or three months to complete the initial phase of training, we find some people opt out after a few weeks, due to physical or scheduling problems.

Are there separate beginners classes?
No. Everyone learns everything. After your initial Inroductory classes, you are put into the class with everyone else. Everyone learns by teaching. Students before you will show you what to do, as you will show others that start after you. After the first few classes, you will be able to follow most movements, but at a slow pace. This is the traditional way of teaching beginners in Aikido, and although it might seem intimidating at first, it does work and provides and smooth path for progress.

What fees are involved?
Membership fees are paid monthly and entitle the student to take all classes. The fee schedule is above.

What equipment do I need?
You will need a standard medium weight white Judo style practice uniform, or “gi”. That is the only required equipment. (One can purchase a gi at Kure Beach aikido for $55.) Women usually wear a white t-shirt or tank top under their gi.

How often should I practice?
You should come as often as you can. We have two, two hour classes a week. Aikido is challenging, especially during the first two to three months. It can be hard to truly appreciate Aikido training until you’ve practiced at least this long, and maintaining a certain frequency of practice allows faster learning. Other than that, you make your own schedule.

Are there ranks?
In the Kids Class there are 14 Kyu grades, in the Adult class there are 7 kyu grades (from White Belt (7th Kyu) to Brown belt with Stripe (1st Kyu). The next rank, shodan (1st dan), means first degree black belt, and then progresses to, second degree, third degree, etc.

What do the ranks mean?
A person’s rank, in a general sense, indicates how much one has trained and how well one knows the basic techniques of Aikido, both in the role of the attacker (uke) or the defender (nage).

How does one advance in rank?
One advances in rank by periodically taking tests. Testing follows the guidelines of the Aikido World Alliance, and International Headquarters, Tokyo Japan. 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 four to six years.

Are there competitions?
There are no competitions in Aikido. Aikido's techniques are such that competition gets in the way. Students help each other better themselves instead of competing.

Are there classes for children?
Kure Beach Aikido has a children’s class that meets twice a week. It is aimed at ages Seven through Thirteen years, but children outside those ages can be admitted with the approval of the Chief Instructor. The children’s classes run an hour prior to the adult classes every Tuesday and Thursday. By the age of thirteen or so, most teenagers can successfully practice in the adult classes, and the adults program at Kure Beach Aikido usually includes at least one of such students.

PRACTICE

What is a typical Aikido class like?
A typical class begins with stretching exercises. Then the instructor demonstrates techniques and the students take partners and try to duplicate the instructor's movements as best they can. During practice, partners take performing the technique (being the “nage”) receiving the technique ( the “uke”). The instructor observes the students as they practice and gives personal instruction usually consisting of bringing the student's attention to important points or common mistakes.

Are there seminars or special practice sessions?
Daily practice is supplemented by Aikido seminars, i.e. practice sessions that extend over one or more days. Seminars are very valuable to the training of an Aikido student. At seminars, one trains with students and instructors from other dojos, as well as study with our Shihan or Master Instructors. There are also other special Aikido events.

Can you practice Aikido at home?
The proper place to practice is on the mat at the dojo. It's generally not a good idea to practice elsewhere, especially without an instructor there to provide guidance. However, there are some kata (motions and forms) and stretching exercises that students can do on their own.

Does Aikido practice hurt?
Like any kind of physical activity, Aikido training can create some element of pain, most often typical muscle soreness. Aikido practice in general is conducted in an atmosphere of mutual respect and should be pleasant to all students. Partners work together, practicing at a pace and intensity level that will be safe for both. The main point is to execute techniques correctly, and typically that means doing them relatively slowly for some time.
Over time, students can maintain precision at higher speeds. Therefore, advanced students may practice with more intensity than beginners, but that doesn't mean that a beginner should feel the need to practice with that level of intensity. Aikido students are encouraged to progress at a comfortable rate they define for themselves.

ETIQUETTE
Etiquette is very important in Aikido. In general, etiquette is based on sincerity, common sense and consideration for others, but as a Japanese martial art Aikido has its own rules as well.

Instructors at K.B.A.

Richard Price Sensei, Chief Instructor and Dojocho of Kure Beach Aikido.
My name is Richard Price. I currently hold the rank of yondan (4th Degree Black Belt) in the art of aikido. I started my journey in martial arts in 1969 in seishinkai karate. I have enjoyed cross training in different martial arts over the years including tai chi, judo, and ju-jitsu. I teach in service training as a certified N.C. instructor for different police agencies through the community college system. I also serve my community as a reserve police officer in New Hanover County, N.C.. I've worked full time in the health insurance field for almost thirty years. I'm married and have a 20 year old son.

Contact Richard Price at:

Bill King Sensei, Instructor and Senior Student of KBA.
My name is Bill King. I currently hold the rank of Sandan (3rd Degree Black Belt) in the art of Aikido. Although I have trained in many linear styles of martial art, Aikido is the only in which I have Dan ranking in.
I am a Production Graphic Artist for Feature Film and Television - creating hand props, set decoration graphics, vehicle skins and whatever other demands are made by a script.
I am married, have a son, bulldog and a bird. My wife and I started Aikido together, and now our son has started.
I am the webmaster of the Kure Beach Aikido Web Site.

Contact Bill King at:

John Lothes - Assistant Instructor:

Bio to be forthcoming....

David Heglar - Kid's Class Instructor/ Assistant Instructor:
David is currently deployed on active duty... if we told you where and with who... we would have to kill you... He will be back soon to take some much needed ukemi from the class!

Chad Lanier - Assistant Instructor: I Started Aikido in 1999. I Currently hold the rank of Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) in Aikido. To support my habits (wakeboarding, mountain biking, RC airplanes, and of course Aikido) I'm an Electrical Engineer with Corning Incorporated in Wilmington NC.

Clint Hamilton - Assistant Instructor: Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt) in Aikido.

Tony Rivera - Assistant Instructor: Tony Rivera, with the Forensic Test for Alcohol Branch and a reserve
police officer with the Cape Carteret Police Dept. I have been part of and growing with the Kure Beach Aikido Dojo since April of 2002. I just recently got promoted to my 1st Kyu and I am currently in training for my Black Belt. I have found that initially I wanted to use Aikido for my law enforcement profession, but now the way of harmony has permeated all aspects of my life. The dynamic sphere has evolved into a dynamic relationship with all things.

The K.B.A. Site is updated as often as possible... Contact the webmaster at...