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
Monday & Wednesday: 6:30-7:30 pm, 7:45-8:45 pm
Saturday: 10:00-11:00 am, 11:15 am-12:15 pm
Sunday: 9:00-10:00 am, 10:15-11:15 am
We welcome any race, gender and sexual orientation.
$110 per month for all classes.
$70 per month for 1 class a week per month.
Masakatsu Agatsu (正勝吾勝), ‘true victory, is victory over the self’
Instructors
Josh Weiser, 5th degree black belt
Chief Instructor | Owner | Sensei
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 5th degree black belt and Sensei (Teacher of Aikido). Mr. Weiser is the Midwest Regional Event Coordinator for the AAA and participates as a AAA Chicagoland Testing Committee Member.
Robert Koga, 3rd degree black belt
Instructor | Fukushidoin
Robert Koga Sensei started practicing Aikido later in life. He earned his 1st degree black belt at the age of 78. Koga Sensei holds the rank of 3rd degree black belt and Fukushidoin (qualified assistant instructor). He attends regular Aikido classes and seminars throughout the year. Mr. Koga is an inspiration to us all!
Robert Sweiss, 1st degree black belt
Instructor
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 1st degree black belt. He attends regular Aikido classes and seminars throughout the year.