Aikido is a modern Japanese martial arts training that focuses on the power of body movements and momentum rather than punches and kicks. Students learn blocking, rolling, locking, and throwing movements to control the force of an opponent. It’s a great way for children and teens to gain confidence, practice focus and concentration, and learn non-violent strategies for self-defense.
Level 2: 7-10 yrs old
Level 3: 11-14 yrs old
Level 4: minimum age is 11 with instructor permission. Level 4 children must follow directions using props/tools (plastic staffs and swords, wood staffs) without horseplay. The instructor may withdraw a child from the class if they cannot use the props as instructed.
Location
SDC Studio
Special Requirements
Uniforms are required and are available for purchase for $35 on the first day of class. For more information, contact Mark at
mjcampbe@mtu.edu.
Spring 2026
New Registration System Launching Spring 2026!
We’re upgrading to a new recreation program registration system to better support youth and adult programs!
Important for Parents/Guardians:
To register your child for any youth program (like swim lessons or youth sports), you’ll need to:
1. Create your account *Note: Due to system constraints, only current students, faculty, and staff may use an MTU email. All others must use or create a different email address to create an account.
2. Add your children as your affiliates (with their date of birth)
3. Register your child through their affiliate profile (profile options in top right corner), not your own, for any program with an age requirement
This ensures accurate participant info and correct age group placement.
Create your accounts early to be ready!
Additional information on how to create your user account can be found here.
Additional information on how to create your child’s affiliate account can be found here.
Registration and payment can be completed online, or at the SDC Ticket Office. A parent or legal guardian is required to sign waiver of liability and concussion awareness forms for all youth classes.
MTU Recreation Programs Cancellation Policy
SPRING 2026 SESSION 1: January 16 - February 20
Registration opens December 9, 8:00 am.
Registration closes January 9, 11:59 pm.
Day/Time
- Level 2 (age 7-10) - Friday, 6:15-7:05 pm
- Level 3 (age 11-14) - Friday, 6:15-8:05 pm
- Level 4 (age 11+ with instructor approval) - Friday, 7:15-9:05 pm
Session 1 Cost
No day passes. NOT included in the HuskiesFit Group Fitness Semester Pass.
SPRING 2026 SESSION 2: March 13 - April 17
No class April 10.
Registration opens February 2, 8:00 am.
Registration closes March 6, 11:59 pm.
Day/Time
- Level 2 (age 7-10) - Friday, 6:15-7:05 pm
- Level 3 (age 11-14) - Friday, 6:15-8:05 pm
- Level 4 (age 11+ with instructor approval) - Friday, 7:15-9:05 pm
Session 2 Cost
No day passes. NOT included in the HuskiesFit Group Fitness Semester Pass
About the Instructors
Mark Campbell-Olszewski, Aikido Coordinator/Instructor
Mark Campbell-Olszewski is the coordinator of the Aikido program at Michigan Tech. He has studied Aikido under Mitsugi Saotome Sensei for over 26 years and holds the rank of 5th-degree black belt. He received his master's degree in clinical psychology from the University of Alabama in Birmingham in 1983. Mark considers Aikido a perfect blend of his two passions—martial arts and psychology—and considers himself privileged to teach these principles to community children and adults.
The Aikido program at Michigan Tech is affiliated with the Aikido Schools of Ueshiba (ASU) an international organization under the umbrella of the Aikikai Foundation, Aikido World Headquarters.
Email: mjcampbe@mtu.edu
Rae Hix, Youth Aikido Instructor
Rae Hix has studied various martial arts since she was 7 years old, as well as dance and theater. She has been studying and practicing Aikido for 6 years under the tutelage of Sensei Mark Campbell-Olszewski. As a martial artist from a young age, Rae is excited to share the fun, joy of movement, and meaningful discipline of Aikido with the next generation.
Email: rhix@mtu.edu
