06/02/2026
For a reference:
A message from Steve Sensei
Logistics: tests are June 20 after the 11am class, officiated by Sharon. If you desire to test, find the application on the front desk. Application deadline is June 17. Test prep classes are in session on Tuesdays at 6:45am taught by Kevin and Fridays at 4:15pm by Paul A. While they are kyu test prep classes, all are welcome. For every nage, we need an uke. Sharon will also teach a randori class on Thursday, June 11 at 5:30pm. Everyone is welcome.
Now, on to bare minimum requirements:
-You are up to date on your monthly dues
-You are up to date on your individual 2026 USAF membership
-You have at least the minimum required hours needed for grade you want -to test for (if not a whole lot more)
-You have paid the USAF kyu test fee of $50
Now, what are we looking for, when it comes to testing, at the New York Aikikai:
-Know the technique requirements for the rank you want to test for in the order in which they are listed, and then totally out of order
-Be prepared to demonstrate all the techniques from your previous tests
-Clearly demonstrate differences between omote and ura variations
-If required to demonstrate 5 techniques from a particular attack, know 10
-If randori is part of your test, prep for it by doing jiyu waza with multiple attackers. Don’t set up a strategy for randori. Randori roughly means “control chaos.” For us in aikido, randori is multiple ukes attacking, all at the same time. In contrast, jiyu waza is multiple attackers, one at a time. Feel comfortable with that and chaos is yours to control
-Train as much as you can
-Get in extra classes, attend test prep classes, set up extra practice times. Don’t be a stranger. Ask for help!
Do great.
Photo credit: Javier Dominguez
