Learn to Fall Safer- Instructor Development Workshop
Sunday, November 29, 2026, 1:00 – 5:00 PM
at Great Lakes Aikido, 150 N Fairway Dr, Ste 156, Vernon Hills, IL 60061
About the Seminar
Falling safely is one of the most practical skills we can share, and adults of all ages are looking for safe, welcoming ways to build balance and confidence. This seminar combines hands-on practice with discussion, so you leave with a clear picture of who you will teach, where you will teach, and how to structure a 4-week course.
Open to: martial arts instructors, senior students, health care practitioners, and fitness coaches and trainers.
Topics Covered:
Your community: who you would welcome to your class
Your venue: where you would offer the course, and why
Planning your 4-week course: how to structure and run it
The 5 Aspects of Balance: static, dynamic, confidence, strength, and dual tasking
Welcoming language: words and framing that invite people in
Practice: the falls you will teach, plus other movements that build confidence
Beginner’s mind: returning to it as the teacher
Working with different conditions: i.e. osteoporosis, knee replacements, and dementia
Expected Outcomes
By the end of the afternoon, you will:
Feel ready to start teaching Learn to Fall Safer classes
Have a plan for a 4-week course, including your ideal participants and venue
Be able to use the 5 Aspects of Balance to shape your classes
Have welcoming language you can use right away
Be comfortable demonstrating and guiding the falls you will teach
Know how to adapt for common conditions
What to Wear or Bring
Comfortable clothing you can move and roll in (uniform, sweats, or athletic wear)
A notebook and pen for planning your course
Water
Let us know in advance of any injuries or physical limitations
Attendance & Registration
Attendance is limited to 21 participants and is limited to advance registration. Since we have a limited number of spots, there will be no at the door registration.
Registration
Registration for the seminar is US$75. Registration options are:
ZELLE or PAYPAL to AikidoShimbokukai@gmail.com (please also send an email regarding payment sent for “Falling Workshop”)
For those with financial constraints please let us know as we have a few scholarship options available.
Instructor
Barb Brown Sensei, 6 Dan, Aikido of Madison, ASU
Barb Brown is an Aikido Rokodan, A.C.E. Certified personal trainer, Parkour for Seniors coach and creator of Learn to Fall Safer classes, She brings martial arts, fitness, and teaching experience to helping adults fall more safely and move with greater confidence.