Seven Weeks to a Calmer, Steadier You

A fun, friendly 7-week introduction to Ki-Aikido — no experience needed

A Beginner's Journey into Ki-Aikido

Life moves fast. We're constantly pulled in a dozen directions, leaving us feeling stressed, reactive, and disconnected from ourselves. What if there was a practice that helped you slow down, reconnect, and feel more like yourself again — and was genuinely enjoyable along the way?

Ki-Aikido is that practice. It's a cooperative martial art where you'll learn alongside friendly partners, share plenty of laughs, and discover a surprising sense of play in your own body. It also happens to cultivate fitness, flexibility, stress reduction, and an overall increase in health and well-being.

No experience necessary. Limited spots available.

Secure My Spot — Just $49

Transform Your Daily Life in 7 Weeks

The principles you learn on the mat are practical tools for a better life — and the practice itself is more fun than you'd expect from a martial art. You'll laugh, make friends, and feel great afterward.

Have Fun Moving Again

Rediscover the simple joy of moving your body. Ki-Aikido practice is playful and engaging — classes fly by, and you'll leave feeling energized.

Make Real Friends

Train with a welcoming group of people who become genuine friends. There's something special about learning together — and laughing together — on the mat.

Strengthen Relationships

Learn to stay centered in tough moments, respond instead of react, and bring more patience and warmth to your personal relationships.

Sleep More Peacefully

Use relaxation techniques to release daily tension, leading to deeper, more restful sleep and better recovery.

Feel Sharper and More Present

Develop focused attention and clear thinking. Students often say the mental benefits surprise them even more than the physical ones.

Stay Cool Under Pressure

The calm composure you build in practice naturally carries into work, family life, and everyday situations that used to rattle you.

Improve Posture & Balance

Develop natural, upright posture and better balance that reduces back pain and helps you move through your day with ease.

A Practice You Can Enjoy for Life

Ki-Aikido isn't a quick fix — it's something you can keep doing and keep enjoying for decades, growing at your own pace.

Ready to transform your daily life?

Start Your Journey — Only $49

Is This Program for You?

Our students come from all walks of life, but they tend to share one thing: they wanted to try something new, and they're glad they did.

The "I Want to Try Something New" Person

You've been meaning to pick up a new hobby — something active, social, and more interesting than the gym. You want to learn a real skill, meet good people, and actually look forward to your Monday evenings. Ki-Aikido fits the bill perfectly.

The Busy Professional

Your weeks are packed and your brain rarely switches off. You're looking for something that gets you out of your head, into your body, and leaves you feeling lighter. The focus required on the mat is a welcome reset — and the friendships you build here are a bonus.

The Parent Who Needs "Their Thing"

You give a lot to your family and rarely carve out time for yourself. This is your hour — to move, learn, laugh, and recharge. And the patience and calm you develop here? Your family will notice the difference too.

The Curious-but-Cautious Beginner

You've always been a little curious about martial arts but put off by the aggressive, competitive vibe. Ki-Aikido is different — it's cooperative, gentle, and welcoming. No fighting, no machismo, just a supportive group learning together at a comfortable pace.

If any of these sound like you, you've found your place.

Meet Your Guide

Matt Doetsch-Kidder Sensei

Your Guide on the Path of Ki-Aikido

5th Dan (Godan) Black Belt • Joden (Upper Level Bodymind Oneness "Black Belt") • Certified Ki Lecturer

When I first stepped onto the mat over 25 years ago, I wasn't sure what to expect. What I found surprised me — not just a martial art, but a practice full of warmth, humor, and genuine human connection. I've kept coming back ever since.

My favorite part of teaching is working with beginners. There's nothing better than watching someone arrive nervous on their first night and leave smiling, already looking forward to next week. I keep the atmosphere light, encouraging, and fun — because that's when people learn best.

"In my classes, there are no 'dumb questions' and plenty of laughter. We celebrate small victories, we learn to fall safely before we ever learn a throw, and we build confidence together, one step at a time. Expect to have a good time — that's not a side effect of good training, it's the point."
— Matt Doetsch-Kidder Sensei

Ready to see what all the smiling is about?

Join Matt's Next Class — Just $49

What is Ki-Aikido? Movement, Connection, Play

Ki-Aikido is a modern Japanese martial art built on cooperation rather than competition. Instead of overpowering an opponent, you learn to blend with a partner's movement and redirect their energy — which feels a lot more like a dance than a fight. It's creative, physical, and surprisingly fun.

Because the practice doesn't rely on size or muscular strength, it's perfect for men and women of any age, size, or fitness level to train together. You'll work with different partners every class, and the atmosphere is friendly, supportive, and full of good humor.

Mind-Body Coordination

Learn to coordinate your mind and body as one. It sounds abstract until you feel it — then it becomes one of the most satisfying things you've ever practiced.

Everyone Learns Together

No winners, no losers, no egos. You and your partners help each other improve — and have a great time doing it.

Skills That Go Home with You

The calm focus and easy confidence you develop on the mat show up everywhere — at work, at home, and in how you carry yourself through your day.

The Four Pillars of Practice

At the heart of this practice are four simple, powerful principles that serve as the pillars for your training, both on and off the mat. These principles guide practitioners to keep their mind and body coordinated and can be applied to every aspect of daily life.

Find Your Unshakable Center

This is the practice of focusing your mind calmly on your natural center of gravity, located in the lower abdomen. By learning to "keep one point," you develop a sense of inner stability and composure that allows you to remain grounded during stressful situations.

Discover Power in Calmness

Complete relaxation is not limpness but a body full of energy without tension. It is a positive, dynamic state where you release unnecessary physical and mental tension while maintaining purpose in your posture and movement.

Be Natural

When you are calm and relaxed, your body's weight naturally settles in its lowest, most stable position. By learning to consciously keep your weight underside, you cultivate a physical and mental state of natural stability.

Live with Positive Intention

Ki is life energy. To "extend Ki" is to move through life with a positive, focused, and forward-moving energy. This principle teaches you to approach tasks, interactions, and challenges with bright, easy-going confidence.

Ready to experience these principles for yourself?

Begin Your 7-Week Journey — Only $49

Your 7-Week Foundation

This is a structured, step-by-step introduction that takes you from "I have no idea what I'm doing" to "I can't believe how much I've learned" — and you'll enjoy every class along the way.

Over seven weeks, you'll build a solid foundation in a relaxed, friendly, and non-competitive environment. Everything is taught at a beginner's pace, and there's always time to ask questions and practice at your comfort level.

What You'll Learn

Ukemi (受け身) — Safe Falling: Learn both backward falls and forward rolls to receive techniques safely, building confidence and eliminating fear of falling.

Hitori Waza (一人技) — Solo Exercises: Master a series of basic exercises you can practice on your own to develop coordination and internalize the principles.

Kumi Waza (組技) — Partner Practice: Work cooperatively with partners on basic techniques to escape common attacks, building practical skills and trust.

Shisei (姿勢) — Physical & Mental Posture: Develop proper posture and attitude that creates natural stability and confidence, both physically and mentally.

Shisen (視線) — Focus & Intention: Learn to align your focus and intention, developing the ability to remain centered and aware in any situation.

Maai (間合い) — Space & Timing: Master the use of space, correct timing, and the relationship dynamics with others — essential skills for both physical techniques and daily interactions.

Non-Dissension (争わざる): The core principle of not meeting force with force, but instead leading the mind — transforming conflict into harmony.

Ki Breathing (氣の呼吸法): Learn this fundamental method to calm the mind and body, experiencing the unity of mental and physical coordination.

Important: You should not expect to leave this program as a proficient fighter. Instead, you will gain a fundamental understanding of how to remain calm, maintain balance, and redirect force in stressful situations — skills that will serve you throughout your life.

Ki-Aikido Learning — Posture and Balance

Ki-Aikido Learning — Safe Falling Techniques

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.

Is it actually fun, or is it super serious?

It's genuinely fun. Yes, we're learning a real martial art with real principles, but the atmosphere is warm, relaxed, and full of laughter. Students regularly tell us it's the highlight of their week. You'll be smiling before you leave your first class.

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 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 young adults 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 number one priority — and we take it seriously so you don't have to worry. The training is entirely non-competitive and cooperative. A big part of the beginner's curriculum is learning how to fall and roll safely (ukemi), which is actually one of the most fun things to learn. You'll never be asked to do anything that makes you uncomfortable.

What happens after the 7-week program ends?

Upon successful completion of the program, you will be invited to join our regular adult classes. This program provides the perfect foundation to seamlessly transition into our ongoing training, where you can continue to deepen your understanding and refine your skills with the support of our entire dojo community.

Do I need any prior martial arts experience?

None at all. This program is designed from the ground up for people with zero experience. You are exactly who this course is for, and you'll be learning alongside a group of fellow beginners in the same boat.

What are the people like?

Friendly, down-to-earth, and welcoming. Our dojo community includes teachers, engineers, parents, retirees, and everything in between. What they have in common is that they're kind, supportive, and happy to help a new student feel at home. Many of our students say the people are their favorite part.

Your Path Starts Here

Limited spots available to ensure personalized instruction and a supportive learning environment.

Secure My Spot — Pay $49 with Stripe

Classes Begin This Spring

Your journey into Ki-Aikido starts on Monday, April 6th, 2026 at 7:15 PM

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Program Details

Duration: 7 Weeks — April 6th through May 18th, 2026

Schedule: Mondays, 7:15 PM – 8:15 PM

Location: Loudoun Valley Ki-Aikido, Hillsboro Old Stone School

Investment: $49

100% Risk-Free Guarantee

Come to the first class, and if you decide Ki-Aikido isn't for you, just let us know and we'll refund your $49 in full. No questions asked.

Secure My Spot — Pay $49 with Stripe

Join a friendly group of fellow beginners, learn something genuinely new, and have a great time doing it. Your Monday evenings are about to get a lot more interesting.