Beginner-friendly Ki Aikido in Hillsboro, Virginia

Train Bodymind Oneness, calm presence, and practical martial movement in evening classes for teens and adults.

No Experience Needed. Just Show Up

Ki Aikido (key eye-key-dough) is a cooperative martial art for any age, size, or fitness level, from complete beginners to black belts. No prior martial arts experience is necessary, and experienced practitioners find the Ki principles deepen every art they already train. All you need is an open mind.

The Busy Professional

Looking for a practical method to manage stress and lead with calm composure under pressure.

The Parent or Guardian

Seeking patience and resilience you can bring home and model for your family.

The Adult Seeking Confidence

Interested in self-defense in a cooperative, non-competitive, supportive environment.

Book Your Free Intro Class

Evening Classes — Monday & Wednesday

All classes at the Hillsboro Old Stone School in Loudoun County. Attend one or both hours of any training block.

Monday

7:15 – 8:15 PM
Special Topics (Currently Intro Class)

8:15 – 9:00 PM
Progressive Aikido

Wednesday

7:15 – 8:00 PM
Foundations Focus — best starting point for new students

8:00 – 9:00 PM
Progressive Aikido

Book Your Free Intro Class View Full Schedule

Certified Instruction, Established Lineage

Matt Doetsch-Kidder Sensei is our head instructor: 5th Dan (Godan) in Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, Joden in Ki development, and a Certified Ki Lecturer. He began training in 1999 and has studied at the Ki Society headquarters dojo in Japan, earning two gold and one bronze medal at the 2004 International Taigi Competition.

Our instruction follows the teaching methods of Master Koichi Tohei, the highest-ranked aikidoist ever certified by the Aikikai Foundation and founder of the Ki Society. The dojo is affiliated with the Eastern Ki Federation and Ki Society International.

Ki Society Certified

Eastern Ki Federation Member

What Students Say

“Worth exploring and learning about this ancient art form.”

- D.K.

“Excellent instruction for skill levels ranging from beginner to experienced martial artist.”

- A.H.

“The dojo struck a great balance between creating a welcoming environment and maintaining the structure and tradition that make the practice meaningful.”

- A recent student

Find Us in Hillsboro, VA

Hillsboro Old Stone School · 37098 Charles Town Pike, Hillsboro, VA 20132
Approx. 30 min from Dulles Airport · 1 hour from Washington, DC

Get Directions

Visitors are always welcome to observe any class — just arrive a few minutes early to introduce yourself.

Monthly Misogi Refresh

Misogi is the monthly reset for your regular practice. Join us on the First Wednesday of every month to clear your mind, reinvigorate your spirit, and wash away distraction, so the calm and focus you build in class carries into everything else. Open to everyone.

8:00–9:00 PM

Discover Monthly Misogi →

What is Ki-Aikido? The Art of Calm Strength

Ki-Aikido is not about learning to fight; it's about learning not to. It is a modern Japanese martial art founded on the principle of non-dissension — a way to resolve conflict harmoniously and effectively. Unlike martial arts that rely on aggression or overpowering an opponent with physical strength, Ki-Aikido teaches you to blend with an attacker's motion and redirect their energy.

This unique approach means that relative size and muscular strength become less important. The practice is built on Bodymind Oneness, making it a perfect art for men and women of any age, size, or fitness level to practice together safely and cooperatively.

The Ki Society offers five powerful paths to bodymind oneness:

Aikido: Learn techniques that lead rather than oppose
Ki-Breathing: Transform your relationship with breath to access deeper life energy
Ki-Meditation: Cultivate unwavering presence and centered awareness in stillness
Sokushin no Gyo (Bell Meditation): Discover clarity by training the body, voice, and mind
Kiatsu: Experience the profound healing potential of directed Ki energy

Your Questions Answered

It's natural to have questions when starting something new. Here are answers to some of the most common ones we hear from beginners.

Do I need to be in great shape to start?

Not at all. Ki-Aikido practice develops flexibility, coordination, and fitness over time. Students begin at many levels of physical fitness. The techniques do not rely on strength, and you are always encouraged to practice at a pace that is comfortable and appropriate for you.

Is Ki-Aikido effective for self-defense?

Yes, but perhaps not in the way you might think. The primary goal is to de-escalate conflict and neutralize an attack without causing serious injury. You will learn practical techniques applicable to many types of attack, but more importantly, you will cultivate the calm awareness and confidence to handle stressful situations peacefully and effectively, which is the most valuable self-defense skill of all.

What should I wear to my first class?

For your very first few classes please wear loose, comfortable workout clothing like sweatpants and a t-shirt. The clothing should cover your knees and elbows and be durable, without any zippers or buttons that could scratch the mats or your training partners. We practice barefoot, so no special footwear is needed. We will provide information on where to purchase a training uniform (keiko-gi) if you are interested.

Am I too old to begin?

Absolutely not. Because Ki-Aikido does not depend on strength or athletic speed, it is practiced successfully by people of all ages, from kids ages 8+ to senior citizens. It is a low-impact activity that improves posture, balance, and flexibility, making it an ideal lifelong practice.

Is there a risk of getting injured?

Safety is our absolute number one priority. The training is entirely non-competitive and fosters an attitude of cooperation and support. A significant portion of the beginner's curriculum is dedicated to learning how to fall and roll safely (ukemi) so you can receive techniques without injury. You will never be asked to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Do I need any prior martial arts experience?

None at all. We warmly welcome complete beginners to our dojo community! No prior martial arts experience is necessary—only an open mind and willingness to learn. Our supportive environment makes starting your journey accessible and enjoyable. You'll be learning alongside others at various stages of their journey.

View Schedule View Membership Fees Contact Us Subscribe to Newsletter Book your Free Intro Class now!