Boulder Ki Aikido
About
Boulder Ki Aikido is a peace-focused martial arts dojo in Boulder, CO. We train the human spirit through the practice of Mind-Body Unified Aikido.
BKA is led by Abel Villacorta, Sensei, 4th degree black belt in Shinshin Toitsu Aikido and 2nd degree black belt in Ki Development. For a list of other instructors, visit: https://boulderkiaikido.org/aikido-instructors-about-us/
Our peace-centered martial arts Boulder CO dojo offers:
Child-Parent Ki Aikido Classes (ages 6–9) | For children and their parents. Parent participation is highly encouraged, but not required.
Children’s Ki Aikido Classes (ages 9–12) | Parent participation is optional. Parents may treat this as a Child-Parent class.
Ki Aikido Classes for Teens (ages 13–18) NEW!
Ki Aikido Classes for Adults (ages 13+)
What is Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido?
Aikido is a traditional, non-competitive, Japanese martial art meaning “the way of harmony with universal energy (ki, prana, chi).” Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido, meaning “mind-body-unified”Aikido (aka Ki Aikido), explores mind-body unification principles through graceful, dynamic self-defense movements. Instead of responding to conflict with muscular force, Ki Aikidoists use ki and respect the training partner’s energy. By flowing with it and converting the attack into a pin or a roll, the practice results in a positive experience for both participants. Ki Aikido is beneficial for everyone regardless of size, age, gender or physical ability.
Aikido in Daily Life
Our daily lives can be greatly enriched by the calmness and inner strength developed through the practice of Aikido. Going beyond the advantage of learning to defend yourself, Ki Aikido helps you function better in your everyday world, to build confidence, raise your level of physical fitness, as well as provide a new way to handle conflicts and other difficult situations. The diligent study of Ki Aikido can lead to a more vigorous, confident, and spirited way of life.
Three ways to try out Boulder Ki AikidoStarting is simple. Beginners welcome anytime! Get started with us here.
There are three ways for adults and children to check out if Boulder Ki Aikido is the right fit as your martial arts Boulder CO dojo. Learn more...
Follow Boulder Ki Aikido
“I first became interested in martial arts because I wanted a solid discipline to develop my character and a way to feel confident in defending myself. Due to its circular, fluid and effective techniques that harnessed the energy of my opponent, Ki Aikido quickly became a perfect fit.”
Villacorta Sensei has a genuine dedication for inspiring students of all ages to discover their true inner power and to live life positively. “Over time, this art has become a spiritual path for me. I remain a lifelong student of this profound art by training under the guidance of Kashiwaya Sensei.”
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Three ways to try out the Art of Peace. Beginners Welcome!Ki Aikido is an art. To appreciate the breadth of its offering, it takes patience, practice and time.
If you are new to the art, to more easily grasp the tip of the iceberg and experience first-hand if this martial art of peace is for you, we’ve developed three martial arts deals (aka, boulder co ki aikido beginner programs).
You can start at any time! Simply contact us after purchasing the offer of your choice, below, so we can make your first day as welcoming as possible. Offers are open to any new student who has never taken Ki Aikido with us before. New students will get the personalized attention and support of BKA’s instructors, assistant instructors and senior students. Only one trial offer may be used by new students, so choose wisely (new students may not use multiple introductory offers in succession).
Beyond the introductory period, if you decide that Boulder Ki Aikido is the martial arts dojo for you, we have several options for ongoing classes, ranging from drop-in rates and punch cards to monthly or long-term pre-paid rates.
We look forward to starting your Ki Aikido journey with us!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Villacorta Sensei received the rank of Yondan (4th degree black belt) in Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido (“Aikido with Mind & Body Unified”/Ki Aikido) in January 2016. He holds the rank of Chuden in Shin Shin Toitsu Do (“Way of Unifying Mind & Body”/Ki development rank), is certified as Assistant Lecturer and as Assistant Examiner for the Japanese international organization, Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido Kai.
Villacorta Sensei has a genuine dedication for inspiring students of all ages to discover their true inner power and to live life positively. “Over time, this art has become a spiritual path for me. I remain a lifelong student of this profound art by training under the guidance of Kashiwaya Sensei.”
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Ongoing Class Rates
Going beyond the Introductory Offers above, Boulder Ki Aikido does not require new students to sign long-term contracts. Ki Aikido is an art, and as such, one only gets more proficient through diligent practice, patience, and perseverance. Like any art, the more often you attend, the more the practice will reward you.
Once you have decided that Boulder Ki Aikido is the martial arts dojo for you, we have several options to suit your schedule and ongoing practice — from Children’s and Adult month-to-month rates, to pre-paid punch cards, long-term packages and family rates. Visit our Sign Up page and scroll down (below the Intro Offers) to see the various rates available.
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching about 2 years into my study of Mind-Body Unified Aikido, as an assistant instructor, while attending CSU in the mid 1990's. Soon after graduating, I moved to Boulder where I continued teaching at CU Boulder. In 1999, about a year after reaching the rank of black belt, I officially opened the Boulder Ki Aikido dojo.
What types of students have you worked with?
ChIldren of all ages, 4 years old to 62 years old. It's never too late to begin the study of Ki Aikido.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Recently, one of my middle school students mentioned how Aikido had helped him in an aggressive situation after leaving school. A bully in the grade above had tried to run my student and his friend over with his bike. My student was alert, ready so he pushed his friend out of the path quickly then stepped out of the way to avoid being hit by the bully on the bike. "That was totally an Aikido move - disarm aggression by stepping away."
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure that you have a good discussion with the potential teacher with whom you are looking to start training, to make sure the goal of the training aligns with what the student wants to get out of the art.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
There is no magic pill. Make sure you are determined to keep up with regular practice of any martial art, otherwise the gains will be slow and your enthusiam for the martial art may fade quickly.