Aikido of Champlain Valley offers one of the only intensive training/live-in Aikido
programs in New England. We welcome students to apply from all countries, styles and
traditions.
INTENSIVE TRAINING PROGRAMS
ACV has two separate programs – one for
soto deshi and another for
uchi deshi. A
soto deshi (“outside student”) lives outside of the dojo, but seeks greater focus and intensity in their Aikido practice than that of a regular student. An
uchi deshi (“inside student”) enters a traditional method of apprenticeship for students prepared to sacrifice a great deal in exchange for a deeper commitment to their practice, the dojo and their teacher. An
uchi deshi lives in the dojo and is willing to engage in more intensive training, integrating their lives with that of the dojo.
Applicants for both programs should be at least 3
rd kyu in Aikido (exceptions can be made at the discretion of the Chief Instructor).
SOTO DESHI REQUIREMENTS:
- Train at least 10 hours of classes a week. Students must attend
all
of the weapons classes including iaido, zazen, and all deshi
classes. Deshi classes are private and closed to regular members.
- Attend all in-house seminars, sesshin (intensive Zen meditation
retreats) and USAF summer camp.
If you cannot attend summer camp, you must also attend at least 3
shihan seminars a year.
- Samu, or daily cleaning. This means cleaning the dojo and grounds
every day of practice.
The student discovers the integral relationship between self-study and
service.
UCHI DESHI REQUIREMENTS:
All of the above requirements, and also
- Train at least 14 class hours a week. In addition, training should
include free practice and self study outside of class.
- Cleaning the kitchen/stove and common area. >The bedrooms should
also be
immaculate. Practice "no trace camping"
- Cultivate a daily meditative practice. This could be zazen
or any practice that resonates with you.
- Be aware that you are living in a sacred place, so try to embody the
spirit of a budoka at all times.
Cost:
- Soto Deshi: $90 a month (includes Iaido).
- Uchi Deshi: $300 a month for rent/utilities + $90 a month for
training.
A kitchen, three bathrooms, a separate bedroom space for three students
and a shower are included. Students provide food and cook for themselves.
Application:
If you are interested in either the
Uchi Deshi or
Soto Deshi program, please write a letter of intent, including
- Name, age, address, e-mail and occupation.
- Background history - include pertinent medical history.
- Explanation of why you want to join the program. What are your personal
goals?
- Proposed duration of your stay at Aikido of Champlain Valley.
- Rank in Aikido, number of years you have trained, and background in other
martial arts
- A letter of recommendation from a teacher.
Your application should be sent by postal mail; we will not accept
applications sent by e-mail. We do welcome questions regarding the program by letter,
telephone or
e-mail.
The Chief Instructor will review your letter and will arrange a time for an
interview (either in person, by telephone, or letter depending on distance
and convenience).
Aikido of Champlain
Valley
257 Pine St. Burlington, Vermont 05401
www.aikidovt.org
(802) 951-8900