Founder of AikidoMorihei Ueshiba
Our dojo
A living tradition, built through practice.
Founded in 1999, our dojo brings together rigorous instruction, a distinguished lineage, and a community where students help one another grow.
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Our purpose
Modern, profound, and human.
Aikido Institute of San Francisco exists to teach and develop the art of Aikido—and, through training, to cultivate character. We are affiliated with Birankai International and Aikikai Hombu Dojo in Tokyo, Japan.
Birankai FounderT. K. Chiba
T. K. Chiba
Shihan
Dojo FounderG. E. Nomura
G. E. Nomura
Shihan
Lineage in practice
Tradition is carried person to person.
Lineage is more than a list of names. It lives in the close attention between teacher and student—and in the care with which each generation passes the practice forward.
The people who guide the practice
Our instructors
Founder & Technical Director
G. E. Nomura Shihan
Nomura Sensei began Aikido in 1975 and trained closely with T. K. Chiba Shihan in Aikido, weapons, and Iaido. In 1999 she founded Aikido Institute of San Francisco. She is the first woman promoted to Shihan in North America and Europe.
Co-Chief Instructor
Rob Schenk
Rob began training in 2000 under G. E. Nomura Shihan. A certified Birankai instructor, he teaches Aikido and also trains in Iaido.
Co-Chief Instructor & Youth Instructor
Gerard Enriquez
Gerard began training in 2004 under G. E. Nomura Shihan. He teaches the youth program and brings care, clarity, and a strong community spirit to the mat.
At-Large Instructor
Theresa Thadani
Theresa has trained in Aikido since 1998 and joined Aikido Institute in 2002. She is a certified Birankai instructor and also practices Iaido.
At-Large Instructor
Thierry Diagana
Thierry began Aikido in 1997 and trained under T. K. Chiba Shihan before joining Aikido Institute in 2001. He teaches at the dojo when visiting the Bay Area.The door is open