The Kobukan offers youth classes for students aged 7 through 14. Youth classes are ongoing, so students can start at any time. Classes are held on Thursdays and Saturdays. To sign up, please contact instructors@aikidomn.com or call the dojo at 612-827-4395.
Youth classes cover the same basic movements, rolls, and many of the same hand and weapon techniques as in the adult classes, but at a level appropriate for younger students. Youth classes are a great way for young students to practice focus and discipline as well as healthy aerobic exercise. As with the adult classes, youth students learn to practice harmony and cooperation through Aikido techniques.
Students should wear loose-fitting clothing that covers knees and elbows, such as sweatpants and long-sleeved shirts. Uniforms are available through the Kobukan or any martial arts supply store. See the Safety & Clothing, Etiquette, and Vocabulary pages for more information to help you get started.
Parents are encouraged to attend youth classes with their children and may participate in these classes free of charge. Parents who do so, however, should understand the instructors will be focusing on teaching the youth students during youth classes and will not be available to provide instruction to adult participants.
Testing for rank is often a good way to measure progress and to encourage students to work toward a goal. Testing is optional – students progress at their own speeds. The Kobukan holds two youth tests each year, usually in June and December. Tests involve demonstrating various movements, rolls, and techniques, according to their level. Youth students use a different set of criteria to test for rank than for adult students although the general format of the test is the same. Upon turning 14, students must use the adult testing criteria, although those who trained as youth students before turning 14 may continue to participate in the youth classes if they are more comfortable training in that environment. When youth students move up to the adult classes, they receive an adult rank equal to their youth rank.
Youth students pay $35 per month for which they can attend both the Thursday and Saturday youth classes. In addition, youth students must pay a $20 annual fee to AYANA if they wish to test for rank. Family dues are capped at $140 per month.