Three Ways to Begin
Ready to join?
Register online in a few minutes — gi included, no contracts. New adult members qualify for our 2-for-1 intro offer.
Join Now →Want to observe first?
Walk in to any class — no appointment, no signup. Arrive 15 minutes early to introduce yourself. Instructors and students are happy to chat before or after class.
View class times →Have questions?
Call or text us at 773.477.0123, or send a message. We're happy to talk through anything before you decide.
Get in touch →Training for Every Stage of Life
Whether you're brand new, returning to practice, or bringing your child — there's a place for you on our mat.
Adults
Adult Aikido
Morning, evening, and weekend classes, 7 days a week. All levels welcome — complete beginners train alongside experienced students.
Children
Kids Aikido
Ages 8 and up. Every Saturday at 10:00 AM. Builds focus, confidence, coordination, and respect in a fun, safe environment. Intro package $75 — gi included.
Sword Arts
Iaido
The meditative Japanese art of sword drawing. A powerful complement to aikido training — precision, stillness, and focused intent. Open to current MAC members of all levels.
What Makes the MAC Different
50 Years on the North Side
Founded in 1975, the MAC is one of the oldest continuously operating aikido dojos in the Midwest. That kind of longevity reflects the quality of what happens on the mat.
No Competition, No Ego
Aikido has no tournaments. Training is cooperative — you and your partner work together. It's a different mindset than most martial arts, and students consistently say it's a relief.
Instructors Who Love What They Teach
Our 20+ instructors are volunteers — they teach because they love aikido. Their experience spans Shodan to Shihan.
Non-Profit, Community-Priced
As a 501(c)(3), we keep membership affordable by design. Adult membership starts at $110/month — $80 for full-time students.
Classes That Fit Real Schedules
Weekday mornings, weekday evenings, and weekend mornings, 7 days a week. Whether you work 9-to-5 or keep odd hours, there's likely a class time that works for you.
Students of Every Age and Background
Ages 8 to 80+, all fitness levels, complete beginners to black belts. The culture is genuinely welcoming, and new students feel it quickly.
What Students and Families Say
From Google reviews — unedited, from real members.
I've been practicing here for about 3 years, and am so glad I had the courage to start. I didn't know anything about martial arts, but found a welcoming, supportive, and fun community of genuinely kind and cool people.
Laura
True story, my wife signed me up because she thought I would like it — she was right! I started as a complete novice and have since advanced a couple ranks. The community at this dojo is extraordinarily diverse with people of all sorts of athletic abilities and martial arts experience.
Nick
Friendly and welcoming environment, great exercise for cardio and core. Adult classes are held daily — morning and evening, 7 days a week — and a kids class on the weekends. If you are interested, please stop in during any class time and observe!
Michael
What to Expect on Your First Visit
Want to observe first?
Any adult class works. Morning, evening, or weekend. See times →
4349 N Damen Ave. No call, no signup.
Observe from the side. Arrive a few minutes early to introduce yourself — instructors and students are happy to chat before or after.
Ready to get on the mat?
Join Now
- ✓ Register online in minutes
- ✓ Show up — gi included, nothing to bring
- ✓ No contracts
- ✓ New adult members: 2 months for the price of one — $110
Support the Dojo
The MAC is a non-profit dojo sustained by its members and community. Donations help keep training accessible to everyone.