Aikido Schools of Ueshiba

About The Aikido Schools of Ueshiba (ASU)

Emory Aikikai is affiliated with the national organization, the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba (ASU). ASU is headed by Mitsugi Saotome Shihan. Saotome Shihan has devoted his entire adult life to the study and teaching of Aikido. Saotome Shihan is the chief instructor of the Aikido Shobukan Dojo, in Washington, D.C. and also serves as the supervisory instructor for more than 70 affiliated dojos of ASU. He currently resides in Myakka City, Florida. Hiroshi Ikeda Shihan is also a leading Shihan in ASU and he is head instructor at Boulder Aikikai, in Boulder, Colorado. The retail company, Bujin Design, is a recommended site for aikido-related gear and weapons and this business in managed by Ikeda Shihan. The regional instructor for ASU in the southern states (including Georgia) is Dennis Hooker Sensei. Hooker Sensei is the Chief instructor at Shindai Dojo, in Orlando, Florida.

ASU Membership Dues
ASU membership is due annually by March 1. Pay membership dues through Emory Aikikai: $35.00 annual mudansha membership (kyu certification) $75.00 annual yudansha membership (dan certification). Students may also request a patch for $5.00 additional to affix to a keiko gi. Please make checks payable to "Fitness Emory" and denote "ASU dues" in the memo line.

Testing Process

ASU accredits the belt certification for Emory Aikikai students. Non-ASU students are invited to train at Emory Aikikai, but they will not be eligible for testing or rank promotion at Emory Aikikai. Students wishing to hold rank within Emory Aikikai must test according to the rules, requirements, and regulations set forth by ASU. Emory tests students in accordance with the ASU student handbook. Emory typically tests annual in the springtime, although the dojo reserves the right to test students when appropriate.