MUMEI SHUDAN DOJO

Mumei Shudan Singapore was founded in 2009 by expert instructors trained in Japan, France and the US. The Dojo provides training in Aikido and follows the practice guidance from the Aikikai foundation; where its founders originate from. The dojo was initiated with 8 members and has reached more than 300 members and growing with new members and affiliation of new dojos. All Mumei Shudan instructors are certified by the Aikikai Foundation Aikido World Headquarters in Tokyo.

Mumei Shudan Singapore has been given Hombu Official Recognition in accordance with the rules set forth in the International Regulations of Aikido World Headquarters. http://www.aikikai.or.jp/eng/about/organization.html

The name of the Organization – Mumei Shudan literally translates from Japanese as “Anonymous group” and it reflects the desire of its members to promote and disseminate Aikido by Aikikai Hombu Dojo standards and quality while staying independent and open to any Aikido practice.
The leading concepts of training in Mumei Shudan is Ki Musubi which translates literally as “knotting/tying-up Ki”. It means the act/process of matching one’s partner’s movement/intention at its inception, and maintaining a connection to the partner throughout the application of an Aikido technique. Proper Ki Musubi privileges flow and fluidity over brute force and requires a clear, flexible, and attentive mind.

Mumei Shudan welcomes kids (from 5 to 12), teenagers (above 13) and adults of all beliefs, abilities, races, genders and nationalities to extend the horizons of our daily life by training diligently in Aikido.

Classes currently run 7 times a week in downtown Singapore at 149C Selegie Road, Anchorvale Community Centre and NTU Aikido Club.

AIKIDO PRACTICE

Modern coaching methodology says that multi-level ability group is the best learning environment for enrolling new students, progression and achieving results. Aikido art from beginning was designed to be suited for people different physical abilities. At Mumei Shudan we continue this tradition and enable our student learn and experiment. We are dedicated to improve skills for every student. We create focus points for learning at each class and combine them into progressive sequences within a week or a month.
We recommend to attend at least 2 classes a week. Our schedule includes Beginners and Fundamental classes for more structured learning, while other Regular classes are more dynamic.

AIKIDO ETIQUETTE

Observing proper etiquette is as much a part of your training as is the learning techniques themselves. The following guidelines are universal. Please take matters of etiquette seriously.

Remember that you are in class to learn, and not to gratify your ego. An attitude of receptivity and humility (though not obsequiousness) is therefore advised.
Carry out the directives of the instructor promptly. Do not keep the rest of the class waiting for you.
If you are having trouble with a technique, try to figure the technique out by watching others. If you still have trouble, approach the instructor at a convenient moment and ask for help. Do not shout.
Do not waste both you and your partner’s time in unnecessary talk during the practice.
Do not engage in roughhousing or needless contests of strength during class.
Do not bring food, gum, or beverages onto the mat. It is disrespectful to bring open food or beverages into the dojo.

AIKIDO GRADING

Aikido Gradings are conducted regular in Mumei Shudan Dojo and follow strict directions from Aikikai Hombu Dojo.
Students are encouraged to take grading regular according to their attendance and skills progression. Gradings are useful approach to systematize the knowledge and introduce methods to evaluate techniques execution. Senior students are expected to assist juniors with the grading preparation. Before students sign up for the grading, they confirm with instructor on their progress and readiness.
Gradings are conducted by the Instructor Committee.

Grading for Kids

Kids start aikido with white belt, and with the first grading get 12th Kyu and Yellow belt.
Grading requirements are between 3-6 month of regular attendance and include a list of techniques, skills and knowledge that students demonstrate during the examination. Grading continues through Orange, Green, Blue and Brown belts with a stripe between changing of the belt color.

Mudansha Grading – Non-Dan Grading

Adults students progression includes five kyu levels, all carried with the white belt. Grading requirements are between 3-6 month of regular attendance and include a list of techniques, skills and knowledge that students demonstrate during the examination.
All mudansha student carry white belt. Hakama is used as a honorary and traditional attire for women from 3rd Kyu, and for men from 1st Kyu level. Hakama is a long dark blue or black color skirt-trousers meant to hide the position of legs of the warrior.

Yudansha Grading – Dan Grading

Black belts gradings 1-4 Dan are conducted in the Mumei Shudan dojo strictly following the Aikikai Hombu recommendations. Before the examination we organize a series of preparation seminars. All senior students are invited to attend the preparation seminars whether they are grading themselves or not.

BEGINNERS – HOW DO I START?

Congratulations! You decided to start aikido classes at Mumei Shudan Dojo. Whether you are beginner or you had Aikido or other Martial Art experience, you are welcome to join us at any time of the year.

Contact us to confirm our schedule.
Arrive 15-20 minutes before the class to meet our instructors, ask questions, fill registration form and wear your uniform.
Let us know about any injuries or other concerns and existing conditions.
Follow what the others are doing and our instructors and senior students will definitely assist you with your first steps and rolls.

If you are still not decided, come and watch one of our classes.
We are looking forward to see you on the mat.

AIKIDO FOR ADULTS

As an adult you can start Aikido practice and join Mumei Shudan dojo at any age. Aikido allows for people of different height, weight, physical condition and most importantly of different levels to practice together. However, we do provide a number or beginner classes, women classes and classes for seniors to accommodate different preferences and learning styles.
Regular classes are complemented with regular internal and external seminars, extending your experience and highlighting new principles and aspects.
Mumei Shudan Dojo provides you with great mental and physical Aikido exercise, friendly international community and positive aspirations.

AIKIDO FOR SENIORS

We don’t have any upper restrictions for the age to start aikido, however we accommodate to physical limitations due to age and injuries as well as confidence and learning abilities. As we avoid fast pace and painful movements, that juniors would perform easily, we focus on flexibility and musubi connection. If you are not able to perform some of the exercises, please address your instructor and find a way to practice technique in a suitable manner. You are also allowed to take a break and/or a drink during practice.
Aikido for seniors is soft practice and great social atmosphere. It’s highly beneficial to maintain personal fitness and expand your communication circle.
Seniors may also complement their practice with regular aikido and weapons classes.