Hakama!
by Andy on Dec.19, 2005, under Aikido
I finally got my hakama today 
Although I graded 1st Dan back in July, In our Aikido association, Dan Grades enter a probationary phase where they still wear the brown belt and collect black bars towards full Dan Grade status.
Although I only got to wear it for about half an hour, it felt fantastic, one of the best feelings I have had. It is a wonderful way to round off what, overall, has been a pretty low year for me.
I have managed to pass the first test though, I managed to climb the stairs in it… but I am reliably informed that my first ‘Hakama Nage’ (Tripping over the hem of the Hakama) will not be far away!
3 comments for this entry:
December 19th, 2005 on 10:38 pm
Congratulations! Though I must admit, your association seems pretty harsh to make you wait for your black belt. A probationary period after all the hard work that needs to be done for a Dan grading just seems mean.
December 20th, 2005 on 3:26 am
Maybe, but it is also a sign of your commitment.
Effectively, it means that you are still doing your dan grading for 6 months after the grading day. Also, I know that in the past, some people have dropped out straight after receiving their hakama… a shame after all the commitment you need to put in to get this far!
January 5th, 2006 on 4:54 am
Congratulations mate!
I guess I owe you a beer or two
Stef