Aikido Rank System
Aikido uses kyu (pre-black belt) and dan (black belt) ranks. Most organizations use 6 kyu levels (6th kyu = beginner, 1st kyu = most advanced pre-black belt). Belt colors vary by organization — some use only white and black, others use colored belts. At black belt level (and sometimes brown belt), practitioners wear the hakama — the traditional wide-legged pleated pants. Black belt (shodan) typically takes 4-6 years.
Aikido testing involves demonstrating techniques against prescribed attacks, often at increasing speed. There is no sparring component to testing.