Strength for the Body. Focus for the Mind.
Looking for a new way to challenge yourself both physically and mentally? Aikido at the Kenosha YMCA offers a unique martial arts experience focused on movement, awareness, discipline, and personal growth in a welcoming, non-competitive environment.
Whether you’re completely new to martial arts or looking to continue your training, Aikido provides an opportunity to build confidence, improve coordination, and learn practical self-defense skills at your own pace.
What is Aikido?
Aikido is a traditional Japanese martial art that emphasizes balance, movement, and technique rather than strength or aggression. Students learn how to redirect energy and respond calmly and effectively in challenging situations.
Training includes:
- Hand-to-hand techniques
- Wooden sword (bokken) training
- Jo staff training
- Traditional movement and falling techniques
“One of the core philosophies of Aikido is to turn negative aggression into a peaceful outcome,” shared instructor Greg Pieper.
Unlike many competitive martial arts, Aikido focuses on personal growth, awareness, and control.
More Than Physical Training
Aikido training develops more than self-defense skills. Students improve flexibility, coordination, body awareness, and focus while building confidence both on and off the mat.
One unique aspect of Aikido is learning how to safely fall and roll.
“Aikido trains you to become comfortable with falling and rolling,” Pieper explained. “In regular life, falling unexpectedly can become a safer event.”
Students also develop situational awareness, discipline, and confidence that can carry into everyday life.
A Welcoming Environment for Beginners
Trying a martial art for the first time can feel intimidating, but instructors at the Kenosha YMCA work to create a supportive atmosphere where students feel comfortable learning and growing together.
Classes welcome participants of all experience levels, and students are encouraged to learn at their own pace in a respectful learning environment rooted in traditional dojo practices.
Those interested in trying Aikido are welcome to attend one class for free to experience the program before registering.
Who Can Participate?
Aikido at the Kenosha YMCA is open to ages 14 and older and is ideal for anyone interested in:
- Self-defense
- Increasing flexibility and coordination
- Learning more about body movement
- Building confidence
- Trying something new in a supportive environment
No experience is needed to get started.
Experienced Instruction with a Passion for Teaching
The Kenosha YMCA Aikido program is led by experienced instructors Greg Pieper, Joe Grospe, and Patrick Weyand, who bring decades of martial arts and instructional experience to the mat.
Weyand began his martial arts training in 1996 and has trained in multiple disciplines including Aikido, Shorei Kempo Karate, and Shuri-Te Ju-Jutsu. In addition to his martial arts background, he spent 28 years in law enforcement where he became an instructor in defense tactics, firearms, emergency vehicle operations, professional communications, and instructor development.
He has also participated in national and international martial arts seminars and training opportunities, including representing the United States at the Okinawan World Karate Do Championships in Okinawa, Japan.
Together, the instructors strive to create a welcoming environment where students can challenge themselves, build confidence, and continue learning both physically and mentally.
For more information please email bcollins@kenoshaymca.org or click HERE to register.
