Aikido of San Diego Black Belt

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step."
— Lao Tzu

A black belt from Aikido of San Diego means...

You have acquired an exceptional foundation in classic Aikido technique and principle.
You can apply Aikido effectively and dimensionally, and you express it in who you are.
You have made a recognizable and enduring investment in yourself, your work in life, and in how you relate to everything.

Our program is a self-paced process that involves several elements...

>> First, there is the minimum requirement for training days, and technical content.

These are prescribed by the California Aikido Association, which is the Aikikai-affiliated group that we belong to. Aikido of San Diego meets and exceeds the requirements.

Rank	unranked	6 Kyu	5 Kyu	4 Kyu	3 Kyu	2 Kyu	1 Kyu	1 Dan+
Belt	white	white	white	blue	blue	brown	brown	black
Min Time	---	20 days	40 days	60 days	80 days	100 days	150 days	200 days

>> In addition, two primary dojo requirements augment our exceptional training.

The following helps to shape and ensure greater dimensionality and depth in each student. Those qualities are considered hallmarks of the ASD experience. The requirements are completed before a black belt exam is administered.

1. Participation in Aikido of San Diego special seminars with senior guest instructors.

Aikido of San Diego hosts some of the most talented, insightful, and prolific Aikido instructors anywhere. Experiencing them directly, in addition to regularly training with Goldberg Sensei, brings more clarity, inspiration, and diversity to each participant's Aikido path. Aikido of San Diego students train in at least eight such weekend events before a black belt exam is administered.

2. Completion of a Black Belt Project undertaken at the brown belt level.

A quality Aikidoist should not only be an effective martial artist, he/she should also be able to translate the "Way of Aikido" into other worldly realms. The black belt project is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your understanding of Aikido principle through completion of a project of your choice.

Other links related to our ranking system, guidelines, and policies:

Exam Content and Preparation

The Aikido of San Diego Handbook (13-page pdf)