Biz Buzz shares business tidbits from across the tri-state area. In addition to this update from Dubuque, we will share other developments in Wednesday’s edition.

A martial arts training academy has opened in downtown Dubuque.

Various classes are available at JTK Training Academy, 1125 Main St. Owner and instructor Aaron Johnston, who has extensive experience in martial arts, self-defense and fitness training, will teach kenpo and tai chi for ages 16 and up. He also offers corporate seminars and survival skill classes.

Johnston’s primary goal for his students is building confidence.

“Adults these days seem to lack confidence in defending (themselves),” he said.

Kids’ classes, for ages 8 to 15, are also available through JTK Training Academy. Johnston said these will differ in intensity from adult classes.

“They pay attention to the basic forms, techniques,” he said. “There’s not going to be any contact.”

Johnston said his classes help teach young people discipline. He started training in martial arts as a teenager.

“It helped me stay out of trouble,” he said.

While two of his past students originally were going to help teach kids’ classes, Johnston said their plans changed. Still, he hopes to “promote” more of his students in the future.

“Eventually, I’m going to organically let students teach kids’ classes, if they’re suited for it,” he said.

While the academy officially opened in March, Johnston said he is still working on fully furnishing the space and will hold an open house in May and a grand opening later in the year.

Sign-ups for classes are already open, however.

Kenpo classes will be held from 6 to 7 a.m. and 5:30 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Tai chi classes will be held from 7 to 8 a.m. the same days. Two sets of kids’ class sessions will be held from 4 to 5 p.m. Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday.

Those interested can sign up by calling or texting 319-217-2941, by sending an email to aaron@jtktrainingacademy.com or by walking in.