4 4 2 7 n c l a r k a v e • c h i c a g o i l 6 0 6 4 0 • 7 7 3
6 3 4 9 8 2 4
c l a s s s c h e d u l e
(Visitors are always welcome. Please call or email ahead of time.)
m o n d a y / f r i d a y
6:00PM - 7:30PM
s
u n d a y
11:30AM - 1:00PM
a b o u t u s
The
Chicago Aikido Club organized itself when a group of local aikidoka
were in need of training space and training partners. At this point the
club has members with as many as 30+ years of experience and complete
beginners. All of our classes are led by senior students that hold the
rank of shodan (first degree black belt) or above. All black belt level
students/instructors' rank is recognized by Hombu Dojo (the worldwide
accrediting body).
The Chicago Aikido Club is a wholly student
run operation and is not run for a profit. Members are not required to
sign contracts and are responsible for paying monthly dues. At this
point we have formed a partnership with the Tohkon Judo Academy and meet at their dojo.
Please call or email us at any time for further information.
a b o u t a i k i d o
Aikido
is a Japanese martial art created by Morihei Ueshiba in the early to
middle part of the 20th century. Known as O Sensei--meaning great
teacher--he was a student of several traditional schools of Japanese
swordsmanship and empty handed martial arts. Dedicating his life to the
study and cultivation of his martial prowess, O Sensei eventually
synthesized his learning into the art that we now know as Aikido.
Many
of O Sensei's senior students are alive today. After O Sensei's death
several of his students left Japan and spread his teachings across the
globe.
As a martial practice, Aikido is distinguished by
its emphasis on grace, timing, and efficient movement. Joint locks,
throws, and striking comprise the bulk of the Aikido curiculum.
Internally, Aikido as a practice is a reflection of O Sensei's own
ethic and spiritual relationship to the world. While Aikido is not a
religion, many pratitioners do experience the practice as deeply
personal and spiritual.
m i s s i o n s t a t e m e n t
The Chicago Aikido Club is
committed to serving the needs of its diverse and eclectic membership. To meet
those needs the Chicago Aikido Club is guided by these five commitments.
A commitment to practicing Aikido as
informed by Japanese cultural traditions, but not defined by them.
A commitment to open, respectful, and
apolitical dialogue between the club and martial artists everywhere
regardless of affiliation, style, or art.
A commitment to exploring Aikido as an
expression of both martial principles and as internal development.
A commitment to create an environment where
its members and guests feel welcomed, respected, safe, and valued.
A commitment to honor O Sensei’s vision.
The Chicago Aikido Club will honor
these principles through continual self evaluation and improvement. Every
member of the club will agree to act as a student first and foremost,
regardless of rank.
Please phone or email us with any additional questions.