Started practicing aikido in May of 1980, began teaching in September of 1981, and became chief instructor of Central Illinois Aikikai in September of 1994. He says that practically all of his aikido training has been "traditional", that is to say, many hours of hard practice with little or no tangible rewards, and innumerable intangible ones. Knut was promoted to 5th dan, shidoin, in 2007.

Rick began practicing aikido in January 1984, and currently holds the rank of nidan. He has been one of the principal instructors of the introductory class since its inception, and currently teaches class on Monday evenings.

Rule #1 - "Get out of the way."

Rule #2 - "Don't forget Rule #1."