Business Details
28 Years
experience
Aikido & Tai Chi Classes in Hillsborough, NC
Open Sky Martial Arts has been dedicated to teaching traditional Aikido and Chen-style Tai Chi in the Triangle region of North Carolina for over 25 years. Founded by Steve Kaufmann, a 7th-degree black belt with over 40 years of teaching experience, our dojo emphasizes the cultivation of inner awareness, physical fitness, and self-defense through martial arts. We are an official member dojo of the United States Aikido Federation, ensuring adherence to rigorous training standards. Our instructors, including dojo manager Mike Dolan Fliss and co-founder Jesse Kaufmann, bring decades of expertise in both Aikido and Tai Chi, having trained under renowned masters like Grand Master Wang Hai Jun.We prioritize inclusivity and diversity, fostering a welcoming environment for students of all levels. With a focus on community and lifelong learning, we offer structured programs for adults and semi-private sessions for teens, alongside specialized workshops and seminars. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our cooperative, non-competitive approach to martial arts education.
Services
Aikido Classes
Tai Chi Classes
Weapons Training
Private Lessons
Open Mat Sessions
Seminars
Beginner Series
Intermediate Programs
Youth Programs
Workshops
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of combined instructor experience in Aikido and Tai Chi.
- Our dojo is an accredited member of the United States Aikido Federation.
- We emphasize inclusivity and diversity in a cooperative, non-competitive environment.
- Instructors trained directly under Grand Master Wang Hai Jun for Chen-style Tai Chi.
- Structured programs for all levels with flexible class schedules.
Associations and certifications
- United States Aikido Federation (USAF)
- Hombu Aikido Dojo
Services
Aikido Classes
Aikido classes focus on non-violent self-defense techniques using ki (internal energy) to redirect attackers' force. Our cooperative, non-competitive approach accommodates all skill levels, with daily classes included in monthly fees. Students practice throws, pins, and weapon forms while developing physical fitness, balance, and mindfulness through structured partner exercises.
Tai Chi Instruction
Chen-style Tai Chi classes emphasize slow, flowing movements to improve body alignment, flexibility, and internal energy flow. Structured sessions teach the 18-movement short form, with progressive learning requiring committed attendance. Benefits include stress reduction, improved posture, and enhanced body awareness through traditional practices rooted in Chinese martial arts philosophy.
Weapons Training
Integrated weapon classes teach bokken (wooden sword) and jo (staff) techniques as part of Aikido practice. Students learn traditional forms and applications, developing coordination, timing, and spatial awareness. Shared equipment is available, though personal weapons are recommended for advanced practitioners. Weapon training enhances understanding of distance and movement principles in empty-hand techniques.
People
Steve Kaufmann
Chief Instructor
7th-degree black belt with 40+ years of Aikido experience, certified public school teacher, and founder of Open Sky's violence prevention program. Trained under Aikido masters in New York and studied Chen-style Tai Chi with Grand Master Wang Hai Jun since the 1980s.
Mike Dolan Fliss
Dojo Manager
4th dan Aikido instructor with 20+ years of practice, managing daily operations while teaching classes. Trained in Chen-style Tai Chi under Grand Master Wang Hai Jun since 2000, specializing in weapons work and ukemi (breakfall techniques). Public health epidemiologist by profession.
Jesse Kaufmann
Co-Founder
Co-founder with 2nd-degree Aikido black belt from USAF, teaching Tai Chi since 2006. Combines martial arts expertise with dance background to emphasize body alignment and conscious movement. Former school administrator and children's program director for 24 years.
Questions
What martial arts do you teach?
We teach traditional Aikido for adults/teens and Chen-style Tai Chi for adults, both focusing on non-competitive, cooperative practice.
Are classes available for children?
Our youth Aikido program is currently paused, but mature teens may join adult classes with instructor approval.
What should I wear to class?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. No uniforms required. Practice barefoot or in clean-soled martial arts shoes.
Do you offer private lessons?
Private sessions are occasionally available with senior instructors for personalized instruction and advanced techniques.
How are Tai Chi classes structured?
Tai Chi follows seasonal sessions (fall-spring) with progressive learning of forms. Beginners start with the 18-movement short form in structured series.
What are your safety protocols?
We follow current health guidelines. Outdoor practice options available. Waivers and insurance requirements ensure safe training environment.
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