Chicago Aikikai

Art is not a static thing. If that were the case all the art we need would have already been created. Art evolves. It builds on what is known and explores points of view not yet considered. That process creates a lot of debris by those without the skill, creativity and vision to create something worthwhile. Though it isn’t easy to know in advance who will be those that have the talent to make important, lasting contributions, but when demonstration of such contribution in continuous, on-​going and consistent, you know you are dealing with the exceptional. Aikido is an art. It is in the martial art category. If «martial art» is all it is it would be interesting to some and for a while but the way aikido actually works is much beyond. It requires fully integrating all the capabilities of our mind, body and soul.
Chicago Aikikai is the oldest aikido dojo in the Midwest. Though age is not a reliable indicator of successful evolution as some things merely get old, decay and die. Chicago Aikikai descends on a short path with its lineage directly back to the Founder of aikido yet has leadership, directly and through its parent association, leading the evolution of this amazing, transforming art form. The «new» aikido taught at this dojo compares to «old» aikido like nanometer generation electronics to vacuum tube technology. New aikido is compact, powerful and enlightened. Instruction at Chicago Aikikai effectively teaches how to manage situations moving from your internal center without the stylistic flurry that may impress but cannot compare in its efficacy.
Chicago Aikikai is among a handful of dojo who can offer this level of experience, depth and vision. As you enter the innocuous, barely noticeable doorway set back in a cove, ascend the stairs taking note of the historic pictures, you will arrive at the top in the middle of a large, beautiful space with natural beauty captured artfully along side beautiful, larger than life calligraphic art. As you stand there and try to take it all in you will most certainly be greeted by a joyful, respectful and gracious member of the dojo. You will have any questions answered, you may watch a class or join in. You will be made to feel comfortable and encouraged to work within your own limits, however physically capable, experienced or not you arrive.
I have practiced aikido from coast-​to-​coast and north to south all over the continent. After visiting Chicago Aikikai for more than a decade I have finally been able to join this remarkable organization on a regular basis. I can only recommend you visit and judge for yourself if this is the place for you to begin, or continue, something that will turn your life’s journey onto a path with the promise few other things in few other places can offer in an art that will take you the distance.

The level of instruction at Chicago Aikikai is top notch. The dojo provides a terrific learning environment and Choate Sensei presents an innovative and effective approach to teaching aikido. The depth and scope of instruction in every class is great providing countless opportunities to learn, broaden one’s capabilities, and deepen one’s understanding of the art. The dojo itself is also spacious and beautifully designed.

This is the only place in the city, or the Midwestern United States for that matter, to receive such detailed aikido instruction in such a beautiful dojo. Classes are not over-​sized, so there is a lot of opportunity to work with the senior students. They have a free introductory class on the 2^nd Sunday of each month, but are willing to accommodate the schedules of those who are interested. The head instructor’s understanding of the underlying principles of the art is always presented in a creative and understandable way, so that everyone, regardless of level, is able to practice together.

Great place. The atmosphere is beautiful and the people make learning the art easy.