Ready to break the fall

Do I have to attend all classes?
Not at all. Come whichever classes you can. Obviously if you attend more, you'll have more fun. :-)

Can beginners come to any class?
Yes. We do not usually operate separate classes for beginners and advanced.

Do I have to be a Caledonian student to go the Caledonian classes?
No. Externals are welcome.

Do I have to be a Strathclyde student to go the Strathclyde classes?
You must either be:
    A Strathclyde student and a member of the sports union; or
    An alumni with membership of the gym; or
    A member of staff.

What clothing do I need to train?
A clean t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms. If you wish to keep training, it is best to buy a judo suit as this will last longer. They cost between £20 and £40.

Do I need to buy all the weapons?
No, not at the start. Most people have spares which you can borrow if needs be. Although if you intend to keep training it is advisable to buy your own. Weapons start at £10 and a really good bokken can be had for £30. Ask the senior grades for advice.

What are the membership costs?
You must be insured by the British Aikido Board (BAB) in order to train. If you do not already have such insurance, you will be required to take out a policy. For new starts this is a temporary policy that lasts 8 weeks and costs £5 for juniors, £5 for unwaged and £10 for waged; it must be paid before you begin your first class. This insurance requirement applies to ALL classes, irrespective of training location. After 8 weeks you will be asked to join as a full member. If you choose to do so, this initial fee will be refunded against your full membership. Full membership of the Komyokan Aikido Association (KAA) costs £12 for juniors, £15 for students/unwaged and £30 for waged (prices correct as of 03/2007). It lasts for 1 year and includes your insurance. Family discounts are available.

What are the class costs?
Classes are £2.00 for juniors (£10.00 per month), £3.00 for students/unwaged (£15 per month) and £4 for waged (£20 per month). Your first class is free, but note that you will be required to purchase temporary insurance (see: "What are the membership costs?")

What about grading?
You begin at mu kyu (un-graded). After training for a while you can go for your 6th kyu. From there you can progress up to 1st kyu. After that you progress into the dan grades. All kyu grades wear a white belt, we don't have coloured belts like other arts. The dan grades wear a black belt with the traditional hakema. The hakema is a pair of large, pleated trousers worn over the suit. In order to grade to must be a member of the KAA. Juniors grade through the mon grades until they are 16.

Do I have to grade?
No. But if you are not going to grade, why are you coming? You will miss out on some deeply important aspects if you do not grade.

I am a member of another Aikido association; can I train with you?
Of course. Just bring your training book with proof of BAB insurance to the first class.
Also seek permission from your current instructor(s).

A member of the Komyokan Aikido Association