Capital Aikikai

About Us

Capital Aikikai was founded in 1973 and has been providing a continuous program of Aikido training in the DC-Maryland-Virginia area ever since. Our founder, Clyde Takeguchi Shihan, began practice in his native Hawaii in 1958 and has been in the DC area since 1973. Our head instructor, William Plank, leads our team of experienced instructors in providing a unique and holistic approach to martial arts training.

Our Mission

At Capital Aikikai, we believe that Aikido is more than just a martial art; it's a way of life. Our mission is to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where individuals of all ages and skill levels can come together to learn, grow, and improve themselves through the practice of Aikido. We strive to foster a sense of community and camaraderie among our members, and to promote the principles of harmony, respect, and self-discipline that are at the heart of Aikido.

Our Services

We offer a range of services to support your Aikido journey, including:

• Regular classes for adults and students, with beginner-friendly instruction and advanced training for those seeking to improve their skills
• Membership options, with monthly dues and per-class mat fees available for visitors
• Online payments for ease and convenience
• A variety of programs and events, including workshops, seminars, and special training sessions
• A supportive community of instructors and students, with opportunities to connect and learn from others

About Aikido

Aikido is a unique and holistic martial art that emphasizes harmony, respect, and self-discipline. It is a "martial way" that originated in Japan, yet has evolved to become a global community of practitioners who share a common goal of personal growth and self-improvement. Aikido is more than just a physical activity; it is a way of life that seeks to cultivate inner peace, balance, and awareness.

Our Location

We are located in Silver Spring, MD, just north of Washington, DC. Our dojo is easily accessible by car, bus, and Metro (subway), making it convenient for students from across the DC-Maryland-Virginia area to attend classes and events.

The Capital Aikido Federation

The Capital Aikido Federation is our parent organization, with member dojo across the United States. The Federation is accredited by Hombu Dojo, Tokyo, and the International Aikido Federation, and provides a framework for our instructors and students to connect, learn, and grow together.

Other Groups at Capital Aikikai

In addition to Aikido, our dojo space is also home to a Tenshin Shoden Katori Shinto Ryu school and a Daito Ryu Aiki Jujutsu study group. These groups provide additional opportunities for our members to explore and deepen their understanding of martial arts and Japanese culture.