Requirements for Uchideshi Program

Individuals who apply for the uchideshi program must put their training and the dojo above their own personal needs for the duration of their apprenticeship. Applications will be considered for a period of up to three months; after this point, an interview will be conducted to evaluate the student’s commitment to training. Uchideshi must:

• Attend all classes at the dojo. This includes training in Aikido, Weapons, Iaido and Zen. An approximate day is four hours of training, plus self study.
• Perform daily samu. Samu, or work practice, will include: cleaning, repairs to the dojo, cooking, and other necessary dojo related projects.
• Attend any and all local seminars that are being held while in our program.

Time for work outside of the dojo (part-time job) will be given, but must be discussed with the Chief Instructor, so as not to interfere with your training.

Uchideshi will have a free period from Saturday afternoon until Sunday evening, provided there are no local seminars, sesshins, or special dojo training events conducted on the weekends.

Application

In order to apply for the Uchideshi Program the following documents should be submitted to the Chief Instructor:

• A letter stating the student’s interest and intentions for training at Aikido of Albuquerque.
• A résumé, including a history of education, profession, martial arts training, et cetera.
• A letter of recommendation from the student’s present instructor (if applicable).
• Proof of emergency medical insurance coverage, which must be maintained throughout the term of the individual’s training.

Expenses

• Tuition: $400.00 monthly*. This includes training in Aikido, Weapons, Iaido and Zen.
• Equipment: Uniforms and weapons are required and can be purchased if the student does not already have them.
• Food: Most often we eat communally and uchideshi must take turns cooking homemade meals.