The Greater Hartford Aikikai follows the U.S. Aikido Federation's test requirements and rank system, which has only two belt colors: white (kyu) and black (dan). White belt ranks begin at sixth degree and continue to first degree. Black belt ranks begin at first degree and continue up.
To advance in rank, students pass a test to determine whether they can perform the required techniques. To be eligible for a test, students complete a specified number of practice days, which begin from zero after each test.
The highest rank students can test for is third-degree black belt. The federation grants ranks above that by automatic promotion, in recognition of continued technical development and other achievements, such as becoming an instructor and training students to black belt level.
To better understand aikido techniques, see the photo gallery and the glossary.
