Free Open House · Sat, Nov 14 · 9–10 AM · Durango Hills YMCA — RSVP here
USAF Aikido · Martial Arts in Las Vegas

Train with clarity.Aikido classes in northwest Las Vegas

Traditional Aikido martial arts and self-defense for adults and teens, with Chief Instructor Fulvio Mateo. Classes at Durango Hills YMCA start Thursday, November 12, 2026.

Free open house Class times Pricing & Sign Up

Class schedule

First class Thu, Nov 12, 2026. No class Thu, Nov 26 (Thanksgiving).

Where we train

Durango Hills YMCA
3521 N Durango Dr
Las Vegas, NV 89129
Classroom A

Northwest Las Vegas, near Summerlin and Centennial Hills.

Begin

Questions or want to join? Email us.

[email protected]

Aikido instructors

Fulvio Mateo, Chief Instructor of Las Vegas Aikikai

Fulvio Mateo

Chief Instructor · Aikido Fukushidoin · Sandan

Fulvio Mateo has trained extensively as an uchi deshi (live-in student) at the renowned New York Aikikai under the direct guidance of Yoshimitsu Yamada Shihan, one of the most respected senior students of Aikido Founder Morihei Ueshiba (O-Sensei). His teaching style combines traditional Aikido principles with practical application. Read more →

Dennis Tyson, Aikido and Aiki-weapons instructor at Las Vegas Aikikai

Dennis Tyson

Instructor · Aikido & Aiki-weapons · Shodan

Dennis began his martial arts journey in 1998 with a self defense course. He was introduced to techniques from several arts including karate, tae kwon do, aikido, jiu jitsu and judo. Eventually Dennis recognized that he wanted to study Aikido and in 2005 was able to locate a dojo in his hometown. Read more →

Free Aikido Open House

Saturday, November 14, 2026 · 9:00–10:00 AM
Durango Hills YMCA, 3521 N Durango Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89129 (Classroom A). Come watch or try a class — no experience needed. Free. Please check in at the YMCA front desk; bring a photo ID just in case. Teens (12–17) must come with a parent or guardian to sign the YMCA consent form.

RSVP — let us know you're coming

Waiver and Release of Liability

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY. THIS IS A RELEASE OF LEGAL RIGHTS.

1. Nature of the activity and assumption of risk. Aikido is a martial art. Training includes throws, falls and rolls (ukemi), joint locks, pins, strikes, physical contact with other students, and training with wooden weapons (bokken, jo, tanto). I understand that these activities carry inherent risks of injury. Injuries can range from minor bruises, sprains, and strains to more serious injuries such as broken bones, joint or spinal injuries, concussion, and in rare cases permanent disability or death. Some of these risks cannot be removed without changing the nature of the art. I knowingly and voluntarily accept all of these risks.

2. Voluntary participation. My participation is completely voluntary. I may stop, sit out, or decline any technique or exercise at any time, and I will tell the instructor if I feel unwell, hurt, or unsure.

3. Fitness to participate. I confirm that I am physically and medically able to take part in aikido training. I have told the instructor about any condition or injury that could affect my safety or the safety of others. I understand I should consult a physician if I have any doubt.

4. Release and hold harmless. To the fullest extent allowed by law, I release, waive, and agree not to sue, and I agree to hold harmless and indemnify, the following people and organizations from any claims, demands, or liability for injury, illness, death, or loss of or damage to property arising out of my participation in Las Vegas Aikikai classes, seminars, or events, including claims based on ordinary negligence:

  • Las Vegas Aikikai;
  • Fulvio Mateo, individually and as Chief Instructor;
  • all instructors, assistant instructors, and volunteers of Las Vegas Aikikai; and
  • the YMCA of Southern Nevada and Durango Hills YMCA, as the facility host, and their staff.

This release does not apply to gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

5. Emergency medical treatment. If I am injured or become ill and cannot consent myself, I authorize Las Vegas Aikikai and its instructors to call emergency services and obtain first aid or emergency medical treatment for me. I am responsible for all costs of that treatment and transport, and for my own health insurance.

6. Instructions and dojo rules. I agree to follow the instructor's directions, dojo etiquette and safety rules, and the rules of the YMCA facility. I understand that I may be asked to stop training or leave if I train unsafely or ignore these rules.

7. Governing law and severability. This agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Nevada. If any part of it is found invalid or unenforceable, the rest stays in full force and effect.

8. Entire agreement. I have read this waiver, I understand it, and I am signing it freely. I understand that I am giving up substantial legal rights.

Same waiver as our student registration form. Waiver version: LVA-2026-11-v1.

Typing your name above is your electronic signature.

Aikido is for everyone — adult & teen martial arts

Aikido is a non-competitive Japanese martial art. There are no tournaments and no winners or losers — partners train together, blending with an attack instead of meeting force with force. It is not Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or a sport grappling style. People of every age, size and fitness level train side by side, and adults and teens (12–17) are welcome. Practice builds balance, focus and practical self-defense skills. Las Vegas Aikikai is a member dojo of the United States Aikido Federation (USAF).

Frequently asked questions

Where are aikido classes held in Las Vegas?

Las Vegas Aikikai trains at the Durango Hills YMCA, 3521 N Durango Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89129, in Classroom A — convenient to northwest Las Vegas, Summerlin and Centennial Hills.

When are classes?

Thursday and Friday 6:00–7:00 PM and Saturday 9:00–10:00 AM. The first class is Thursday, November 12, 2026. There is no class Thursday, November 26 (Thanksgiving).

Is there a free class I can try?

Yes. Our free open house is Saturday, November 14, 2026, 9:00–10:00 AM. Come watch or try a class — no experience needed. Please check in at the YMCA front desk; bring a photo ID just in case. Teens (12–17) must come with a parent or guardian to sign the YMCA consent form.

Do I need experience or to be in shape?

No. Aikido is for everyone. People of every age, size and fitness level train side by side, and beginners are welcome.

Is Aikido good for self-defense?

Aikido is a traditional Japanese martial art that teaches you to blend with an attack instead of meeting force with force, through joint locks, throws and falling safely. Our instructors teach traditional Aikido with practical application.

Do you have classes for teens?

Yes. Las Vegas Aikikai offers membership for youth ages 12–17 as well as adults.

Is Aikido competitive like BJJ or MMA?

No. Aikido is non-competitive. There are no tournaments and no winners or losers — partners train together cooperatively.

Who is Las Vegas Aikikai affiliated with?

Las Vegas Aikikai is a member dojo of the United States Aikido Federation (USAF).

Contact

Class times

Thu & Fri 6–7 PM
Sat 9–10 AM

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