Open Sky Aikido in Hillsborough, NC is dedicated to promoting the development of the individual through whole body learning. Our family-friendly martial arts school has daily aikido classes for 5 through 7 year olds, school age children, home schoolers, teens, and active adults. Our Tai Chi classes for Self Care enable adults of all ages to participate. Steve Kaufmann is a certified instructor in Dr. Paul Lamm's method,"Tai Chi for Arthritis." He teaches Chen style Tai Chi for martial arts enthusiasts, a practice, like Aikido, consistent with the principles of internal martial arts.

Sensei Steve Kaufmann has taught Aikido since 1982. He was an elementary and middle-school teacher in public schools for over 10 years. He has a credential in learning disabilities. His years of teaching in the school systems gives him insight into how to teach to people's different learning styles. Sensei Kaufmann is also skilled in the ancient martial art of Tai Chi. He is a student of the internal martial arts.

His students excel because he creates a relaxed group setting with clear boundaries. He creates the same relaxed yet disciplined environment in both childrens' and adults' classes. Kaufmann embodies Aikido through his clarity of movement and the way he is able to break down those movements. His simplicity and clarity and his centeredness bring a sense of safety and joy to the learning process. The Open Sky teaching staff model Aikido etiquette which reinforces students' awareness of the importance of the well-being and safety of all class members.

Open Sky Aikido is conveniently located between the Triangle and the Triad areas in North Carolina in the beautiful historic town of Hillsborough. It is an easy drive from Durham, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Duke University, UNC Chapel Hill, Efland, and Mebane. We are located at exit 164, I-85 and five minutes from exit 261, I-40 in the Shops at Daniel Boone.

Open Sky Aikikai is a fully accredited member of the United States Aikido Federation (USAF), Eastern Region. Sensei Kaufmann is a licensed shidoin in the USAF, allowing him to test and give rank in Aikido. The USAF is affiliated with Hombu Dojo, the world headquarters of Aikido in Tokyo, Japan.

  Winter Semester Kids Aikido

Program starts January 5, 2009.

Steve Kaufmann Sensei with Kids Class students

2008 Fall, Children's, 15-week semester

September 2- December 15, 2008.

Thanksgiving break Wednesday, Nov.26-Nov.30.

Kids' Classes Offered

5-8 year olds for Aiki Intro, Tuesdays, 4-4:45. Introductory class.

Home school class, Wednesdays, 10 a.m.-11 a.m.

School Age thru young teens, Mon and or Wed. 4-5, and or, Sat. 10-11 a.m.

Sign up for 1, 2, or 3 times a week. 

Adult Aikido

Special Beginners 4-month package, includes uniform.

Call, 919-732-6367, or e-mail info@aikisky.com for details.

AIKIDO IN CARRBORO - Mon., Fri. 7-8 a.m., Wed. 8:30-9:30 a.m.