Programs
Uchideshi
The purpose of the Uchideshi program is to continue the proliferation of Aikido as a Budo through the connection of the hearts of the past, present and future generations.
The Dojo and training is priority in the life of an Uchideshi; this commitment should not be taken lightly. The demands for the care and cleaning of the Dojo and attention to the needs and wishes of the Sensei’s are unrelenting. Even when fatigued or injured, there are times when things must be done.
The Uchideshi will be challenged physically and emotionally. The conditioning of one’s body and mind through the physical and mental training of Aikido is vital and is seen as the basic process for developing the Uchideshi not only technically but spiritually. An average of 4 hours per day is spent training. This includes Aikido, weapons, Iaido, Zazen and Feldenkrais classes. An additional 6 hours per week will be for self study. Training is not limited to scheduled classes only, but is on-going, all of the time. Uchideshi will also be assisting in the day to day administrative work of the dojo, as part of their instruction in dojo and organizational operations.
Kenshusei Program
A Kenshusei is a special trainee who undergoes the training necessary to become an Aikido Instructor. Kenshusei, having taken a particular course and upon successfully passing the examination to graduate, will be entitled to receive a teaching certificate to include grading authority from Birankai International, in accordance with the international regulations of the Aikido Headquarters (Hombu Dojo), Tokyo Japan.
Soto Deshi Program
A Soto Deshi lives outside of the dojo, but is interested in deepening their Aikido and
martial arts training, above that of the general member. Soto Deshi are required to train
a minimum of 9 class hours per week, including Iaido, and Zazen.
Junior Kenshusei Leadership Program
For students that strive to develop themselves in Aikido through diligent and persistent effort, Aikido of Albuquerque offers a Junior Kenshusei Leadership Program
Community Outreach Programs
At Aikido of Albuquerque, we would like to reach out to the community by offering several programs that would educate the public about the traditional practices of Aikido and Zen. Our current outreach programs include:
Feldenkrais
The Feldenkrais Method® is internationally recognized for its remarkable ability to access the power of the nervous system to create positive change and the improvement of functioning through the medium of physical movement.
Dr. Moshe Feldenkrais, the founder of this innovative somatic approach to human understanding and learning, developed this system which can be used to help both oneself and others.
This humanistic approach to growth and change has demonstrated the ability to improve posture, flexibility, coordination, self-image and to alleviate muscular tension and pain.
The Feldenkrais Method® is an integration of movement science, brain research and psychology which is practiced in two effective and versatile applications as Functional Integration and Awareness Through Movement.
Nutrition Counseling
Bernadette Vargas is a registered and licensed Nutritionist with 14 years of clinical experience. She brings 20 years of experience in fitness, nutrition and community health. Nutrition services include counseling for weight management, sports nutrition, healthy eating for kids and therapeutic diets for people with Diabetes, Heart Disease and Cancer. Nutrition counseling is available for individual evaluations for adults and children by appointment bvargas@aikidoofabq.com. Future nutrition programs to be offered at Aikido of Albuquerque include cooking and healthful eating classes for families.
