Rock Island Parks and Recreation offers a variety of martial arts classes for all ages to increase confidence, strength, physical fitness and balance. Popular and new classes beginning this fall include Fencing, Jiu-Jitsu, Kung Fu, Modern Arnis, Self-defense classes, and T’ai Chi Chu’an. 

     Youth ages 9 and up can participate in Fencing. Parents are also invited to join the fun of learning how to move, defend, and attack using plastic foils and protective masks and vests. Develop agility, mental focus, hand-eye coordination, balance, and confidence! Classes are held Tuesdays from September 5 through October 10 from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Cost is $40.00.

     Jiu-Jitsu, a new class offered at the Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center uses techniques made not to combat the opponent’s energy, but rather using their energy against them (enabling a person that is considerably smaller and weaker to combat someone much bigger and stronger). This class is offered for adults and youth ages 5 and up.  It will be held Saturdays, August 26 through September 30 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Cost is 48.00. 

     Become effective at defending yourself by increasing your strength and balance with Kung Fu. Great for all ages starting ages 5 to adult. Held Mondays and Wednesdays at the Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center August 14 through September 25 from 6:00 pm-7:00 pm. Cost is $60.00

     Modern Arnis, a Filipino Martial Art, is a primarily weapon driven new class at the Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center. Participants will practice with a stick as a weapon. Class also includes hand strikes, as well as grappling throws, and joint locks. Classes are held Saturdays, August 26 through September 30 from 11:15 am to 12:15 pm. Cost is $48.00. 

     Anytime, anywhere…home, work, or on errands you could be approached by an attacker. Learn basic knowledge and self defense techniques through drills and scenarios to strengthen your control. Learn how to escape from holds and traps and what to do if approached by an assailant with a gun, knife or other weapon. No experience necessary, taught for all mobility, and appropriate for both men and women. This Self Defense Intro class, taught by Kung Fu Quad Cities, will be held Thursdays, August 24 through September 28 from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm at the Rock Island Fitness and Activity Center. Cost is $55.00.
     T’ai Chi Ch’uan involves rounded, fluid, balanced movements based on ancient Chinese teachings of living in harmony with nature. Beginner and Intermediate classes are offered. Next session of beginner classes start September 25 and are held Mondays from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Cost is $36.
    For more information or to register for any of these classes call or visit Rock Island Parks and Recreation at (309) 732-7275, 4303 24^th Street, Rock Island, or register online by going to www.rigov.org and clicking on “ePark”.