BigRock Aikikai’s Children's Program

What is Aikido?

Compared to other martial arts (which date back hundreds of years), Aikido is relatively new. It was founded (created) in Japan in the 20th century by Morihei Ueshiba (we call him Osensei, which means great teacher). Translated into English, Aikido means (ai) harmony, (ki) energy or power, (do) the way. So we describe Aikido as the way of harmonizing power. In Aikido we use circular movements to avoid attacks and many different throws and pins to control our attacker. Our goal is to resolve the conflict (fix the problem) between attacker and defender. That means we defend ourselves confidently and do our best to avoid injuring our attacker.

Aikido is Peaceful

If you ever watch an Aikido class you will notice that none of the techniques involve striking the attacker. This means that students never learn how to punch or kick someone in order to defend themselves. This is a very important part of Aikido training. The goal of our Aikido program is to give each student the opportunity to develop self-confidence and compassion – learning ways to deal with problems without creating more problems. This doesn’t mean that Aikido techniques are weak – it means exactly the opposite. Aikido techniques are very effective and discipline is required to learn and use them safely. Aikido students are taught to set an example for others – an example of a kind, generous, compassionate human being.

Aikido Class Structure

Children practice in one of three classes ages 6 to 8, 9 to 11 or 12 to 15. All classes provide the opportunity to advance through belt rankings. In the beginning, children are introduced to the basic movements and philosophy of Aikido. Children will regularly engage in drills intended to increase strength, flexibility, coordination, endurance and mental focus. Children then move on to learn safe, effective self-defense techniques along with skills in tumbling. Through regular Aikido training children have the opportunity to increase self-confidence and self-discipline.

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South Fish Creek Recreation Centre Kid's Classes

Children's classes are held biweekly at the South Fish Creek Recreation Centre. Registration is handled directly by the South Fish Creek Recreation Administration. You can phone the number below, or register in person. The adminstration office is located in the Rec Centre Complex across the hall from the South Fish Creek Calgary Public Library.

*Note: Members include founding members and community members living south of Fish Creek

*Note: Some discount may apply if you register for multiple months at a time or by family. Ask at the registration office for more details.

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BigRock Aikikai Children's Ranking System

There are 9 different levels called kyu in the chilren's grading system as indicated in the table below.

Rank	Belt
14th kyu	Yellow Belt
13th kyu	Orange Belt
12th kyu	Red Belt
11th kyu	Green Belt
10th Kyu	Blue Belt
9th kyu	Purple Belt
8th kyu	Brown Belt
7th kyu	Brown Belt + 1 stripe
6th kyu	Black Belt + 1 stripe

Each kyu test is more challenging then the last and students will need to train very hard to reach the next level. As students advance, becoming more senior, their responsibilities grow to include mentoring junior students.