FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions about Aikido

Aikido is a Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba (O-Sensei) in the early 20th century. The name means "The Way of Harmony with Ki" (Ai - harmony, Ki - life energy, Do - path). Aikido teaches self-defense without causing harm to the opponent through redirecting the attack's energy and techniques based on leverage, throws, and strikes.

Yes! Aikido is a very effective self-defense method. In Japan, Aikido is officially taught to elite police units (Tokyo Metropolitan Riot Police) and special forces. Aikido techniques allow controlling an aggressor without causing injury, which is especially valuable in civilian situations.

In our dojo in Gdynia, we accept people from ages 12-13. There is no upper age limit - we have teenagers, middle-aged people, and seniors training with us. Aikido is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or gender.

No, you don't! Many people start training Aikido precisely to improve fitness, flexibility, and coordination. Aikido techniques are based on biomechanical principles, not physical strength. We adapt all exercises to each individual's capabilities.

Minimum 2 times per week is a good start. Consistency is more important than intensity - better to train 2 times per week for years than 5 times for a month and burn out. Our dojo in Gdynia has classes on Mondays and Fridays, allowing for a flexible schedule.

• Comfortable sportswear - sweatpants, leggings, t-shirt (sufficient for beginning)
• Towel - useful after training
• Water bottle - hydration is important
• Open mind - most important!

Keikogi (training uniform) is not required at the beginning - you can purchase it after a few classes when you decide to train regularly.

No. There are no sports competitions or sparring in Aikido in the traditional sense. The goal is not to defeat an opponent, but harmony and cooperation. We practice with partners (not opponents), helping each other improve techniques. This approach distinguishes Aikido from combat sports.

Aikido is a lifelong path. You'll learn the basics within a year, and reach the first master degree (1st Dan, black belt) after about 4-6 years of regular training. But true mastery comes after decades of practice. As O-Sensei said: "Aikido is not about speed, but perfection."

Our training takes place at the ACS - Academic Sports Center of the Polish Naval Academy at Komandora Podporucznika Jana Grudzińskiego 1. The location is well connected to the entire Tricity area (Gdańsk, Sopot, Gdynia).

Aikido training in Gdynia takes place on the following days and times:

• Monday: 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
• Friday: 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Evening hours are ideal for working professionals.

The first class is free! This is a great opportunity to try Aikido without any commitment. Details about membership fees and regular class costs are available on-site or by contacting us. Additional costs include purchasing a keikogi (training uniform) for about 150-300 PLN - but only after a few classes, when you decide to stay with us longer.

Classes are led by Sensei Oskar Szrajer - 5th Dan Aikido Aikikai, direct student of Shihan Edward Germanov (7th Dan), who was a student of Shihan Fumio Toyoda. Sensei Szrajer has many years of experience teaching Aikido both in Poland and abroad. He is the head of Polish Aikido Organization (POA) and Dojo-cho of Sesshinkan Dojo.

No. In traditional Aikido (Aikikai) that we teach, all students wear white belts until they reach a master degree (Dan). Only after reaching 1st Dan (Shodan) do we wear a black belt. This is a traditional approach that emphasizes that everyone on the mat is equal, regardless of their level of advancement.

Hakama is a traditional Japanese garment similar to trousers worn during Aikido training by those with higher degrees (usually from 2nd Kyu or 1st Kyu and all Dan degree holders). Hakama symbolizes experience and commitment to practice. In our school, we teach hakama folding as part of practice - it is a form of meditation and respect for tradition.

Yes, but at later stages of learning. In Aikido, we train with:

• Jo - wooden staff about 127 cm long
• Bokken - wooden sword
• Tanto - wooden knife (for learning knife defense)

Working with weapons helps understand basic principles of movement, distance (ma-ai), and center. It is introduced gradually as training progresses.

Examinations for Kyu (student) degrees are conducted by a Sensei with a minimum rank of 3rd Dan. Degrees from 5th Kyu are taken before a commission during seminars and camps organized by POA. Examinations for Dan (master) degrees are conducted before a master commission with guests from abroad. Detailed examination requirements can be found on the Kyu Degrees and Dan Degrees pages.

Polish Aikido Organization (POA) is the official organization bringing together dojos teaching Aikido in the lineage of Shihan Fumio Toyoda. We are part of the international Tendokan International network, directly under Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo. POA organizes seminars, examinations, and events for Aikido practitioners in Poland. The organization's headquarters is in Racibórz, and the main dojo (Sesshinkan) is in Gdynia.

Yes. Degrees obtained in the Polish Aikido Organization are recognized internationally within our lineage (Tendokan International, Aikido Association of America). We cooperate with dojos in 11 countries worldwide. Upon obtaining a Dan degree, you will receive a certificate issued by Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo or by our international organization.