Introductory Specials

Austin Ki Aikido Center offers two introductory options for new beginning students: the Exploratory Option and the Focused Option. Try your first class for free, and then choose an option, depending on your needs and interests.

Focused Option

The Focused Option is intended for goal-oriented students who want to commit to an intensive introduction to Ki Aikido. (We’ve nicknamed it “Japanese Warrior Training”.) The goal is to immerse the student in the art and test for the rank of 5th kyu after completion of 30 classes of training (10 weeks at 3 classes per week). The outcome of the program for each student is a firm foundation in Ki Aikido from which you can continue your rank advance­ment. The cost is $125 per student, which includes Ki Society/Midland Ki Federation Aikido test fee and 5th kyu certificate.

If you have not completed 30 classes within 16 weeks, you can continue by paying the normal monthly dues of $80/month. When you do take the 5th kyu test, the test fee will be waived.

Exploratory Option

If you want a low-key introduction to Ki Aikido, you can ease into Aikido training with our 6-at-60 deal. Pay only $60 per month for each of the first six months of training, which is 25% off the regular $80/month dues. You can take your first test (5th kyu) when you and your instructors agree you are ready, usually after about six months.

Under this option, you can also take advantage of our Family Aikido program: up to two additional family members besides the primary member can attend our Family Aikido class (10:00 am Saturdays); this may include children under 14, with prior approval from the head instructor. To inquire, use our contact form, and include a phone number in your message.

Beginning Class Curriculum

Regardless of which introductory option you choose, the beginning class curriculum includes:

  • Basic principles of mind-body unification
  • Hitori waza (solo exercises)
  • Ukemi (the art of falling), especially ushiro ukemi (back falls) and zenpo kaiten (forward rolls)
  • Kumi waza (partnered techniques), especially but not limited to those on the 5th kyu test:
    • Katatetori tenkan kokyunage
    • Katate kosa tori kokyunage
    • Katatetori ikkyo irimi
    • Katatetori ikkyo tenkan
    • Kokyu dosa
  • Ki breathing

Rank tests are administered by Michael Farris Sensei, Head Instructor.