Bowing is the East Asian cultural equivalent of a military salute or a handshake. In Japanese the word rei (pronounced ray) means to bow or show respect

Beyond the obvious physical benefits, research has shown* that participation in 'martial' arts programs:
1. Boosts confidence
2. Improves self image
3. Provides strong discipline
4. Fosters relaxation in children and adults, and
5. Increases attention span and ability to focus (as well as memory and retention).
* Journal of Asian Martial Arts, Volume IV, Number 4 pp. 50-69

No, our Aikibudo is a training method. It is the composite of traditional (Aikido and Judo) and classical sources (Tenshin Shintai Ryu, Kukishin Ryu, Kiraku Ryu) but it is not a stand-alone art.

Aiki Budokai of Boston

Organization of the Harmonious Warrior Way

Aikibudo (Harmonious Energy Warrior Way) is the Japanese name for the training method that we practice. It comprises Taijutsu (body arts), Buki-ho (weapons use method) and Kenkojutsu (healing arts) which are united by common principles and taught in an integrated curriculum.

What is Aikibudo?

Is it a Ryu (style)?

What are the benefits of studying ‘martial’ arts?

What is the bowing about?

No, in fact it is much more closely related to standing during the National Anthem, or saluting the flag. We are simply showing respect to those who were pioneers; those people who made it possible for us to practice and study these arts.

How about bowing to that little house? Is that some sort of religious thing?

20 Rugg Road

Allston, MA 02134

Phone: (617) 501-3446

E-mail: aikibudokai @comcast.net

How long until I make Black Belt?

AIKI BUDOKAI only uses a belt ranking system for children. For adults we instead rely on the traditional method of conferring transmission scrolls (Shoden, Chuden and Hiden). Instruction in Shoden is broken down into five levels: (Gekyu, Chukyu, Dai-Chukyu, Jokyu and Dai-Jokyu) for ease of learning. Completing the minimum basic requirements for Shoden can take anywhere from 1 1/2 to 5 years.

How do the scrolls compare to belts?

Well, it is hard to make generalizations, but Shoden (the first scroll) is equivalent to a Shodan (first-degree black belt) in some systems.

Isn't training in 'martial' arts only for young, strong, aggressive people?

er than 'martial' arts?

Black Belt?

Some schools portray studying Budo (the way or path of the warrior) as being the purview of boys who like to fight. This is usually not the case for traditional arts though. People with aggressive tendencies often either quit training altogether, or begin to rethink the need for forcefulness.

As for the age issue, the founders of Aikido- Morihei Ueshiba, sensei (died @ 86),  Judo- Jigoro Kano sensei (died @78) and the innovator of Daito Ryu Aikijujutsu– Sokaku Takeda sensei (died @83)- to name just three- trained daily despite advanced age.  As we age our bodies lose flexibility and strength, yet generations of practitioners have continued to function well beyond ’normal’ because of years of diligent training.

What do you mean by “Non-Commercial” dojo?

We are not a ‘health club’, do not use contracts or charge for rank examinations.  Dues are paid to subsidize our use of the space, purchase equipment and supplies for the school and for seminars.

The goal of the instructor and members of this school is to practice and teach traditional Japanese arts.  To that end, we openly recommend other schools that may be more in line with what prospective students are looking for– to us, it is better to have members of the dojo community, than to make a ‘sale’.  The arts that we practice can only be learned through a combination of personal training and individual instruction; joining the dojo means that we are each willing to work to improve our abilities and understanding.