North Shore Aikido
Northbrook, Illinois
A Modern Day Martial Art
“Why study martial arts?
A true martial artist does not practice to only defeat others. They practice to defeat the enemies inside themselves, the enemies we all have. We forge our life into something beautiful, something helpful to the world.
Peace is not just a word or idea. Strength, bravery and compassion are things we have embodied. They are what we all must become.”
—Fumio Toyoda Shihan
What is Aikido
The Japanese martial art of Aikido is a comprehensive system of throwing, joint-locking, striking and pinning techniques, coupled with training in traditional Japanese weapons such as the sword, staff and knife.
Aikido (合氣道) translates to ‘the way of harmonizing with energy’. It is recognized for its unique spirit, different from many martial arts, making sport or competition their sole rationale. The goal of Aikido is nonviolent conflict resolution. It was founded by Morihei Ueshiba early in the twentieth century following his extensive study of various armed and unarmed martial systems.
Classes for Adults
Aikido
Monday: 6:30 pm-7:30 pm, 7:45 pm-8:45 pm
Wednesday: 6:30 pm-7:30 pm, 7:45 pm-8:45 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-11:00 am, 11:15 am-12:15 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am-10:00 am, 10:15 am-11:15 am
Masakatsu Agatsu (正勝吾勝), ‘true victory, is victory over the self’
Instructors
Josh Weiser, 4th degree black belt
Chief Instructor | Owner | Shidoin
25+ years experience
Josh Weiser Sensei has trained in martial arts for more than 40 years. He started practicing Aikido over 25 years ago and has had the opportunity to train with different schools and affiliations enabling him to have a unique understanding of the art.
Weiser Sensei teaches at seminars throughout the Midwest. He holds the rank of 4th degree black belt and Shidoin (Certified Aikido Instructor). Mr. Weiser is the Midwest Regional Event Coordinator for the AAA and participates as a AAA Chicagoland Testing Committee Member.
Robert Sweiss, 1st degree black belt
Robert Sweiss Sensei has practiced martial arts since childhood. He transitioned to Aikido at age 17, practicing at dojos affiliated with the Aikido Association of America. Sweiss Sensei holds the rank of Shodan (1st Degree Black Belt). He attends regular Aikido classes and seminars throughout the year.