How to Earn an Aikido Black Belt

Aikido is a martial art that uses some punches and kicks but focuses most of its teachings on movement and energy. The energy expelled can be used to take your opponent down. Every practitioner of aikido can study long enough to get a black belt, but as with all martial arts, it takes great diligence.

Instructions

1. Find a qualified aikido master to learn the craft of this martial art from. There are many schools in every state that offer classes in this martial art, and you need to look into the school's credentials and teaching style to find out if they are right for you.

2. Practice three to four times per week. Students who are too diligent with their practice schedule tend to burn themselves out and lose interest. Those who take classes and practice at least three days per week tend to move on to earn an aikido black belt.

3. Stay relaxed when practicing aikido to earn a black belt. Aikido is not about physical exertion; it is about keeping the mind and body calm while executing the movements and skill level tests.

4. Understand your school's system of ranking each aikido student. Some have many different colored belts to represent different levels of study, but most traditional aikido schools only have two. The white belt is for beginners, and the beginners move on to a black belt with training and skill level tests.

5. Study and practice for the skill level tests that each student must pass in order to earn an aikido black belt. There are many different schools of thought in each different academy, so you must communicate your goals with your teacher in the beginning.

6. Devote your time to earning an aikido black belt. Though the length of time is different for every student, dependent upon their natural talent and physical abilities, you need to put in at least three years to earn an aikido black belt.