Instructor

Christian Noll is the founder of Arundel Aikikai, and it’s instructor. He has been training in the martial art of Aikido since 2007. He began training in Aikido at Aikido of Annapolis, a member of Capital Aikikai.  In 2010 he had the chance to provide regular cross-training sessions in Aikido to students at an Annapolis area sport-style Tae Kwon Do studio beginning in in 2010. By 2011 this had grown to include a dedicated Aikido class. In 2014 – After several years of growth and gains, Arundel Aikikai, LLC was formed out of this class. Christian currently holds the rank of shodan in Aikido through Capital Aikikai. In addition to teaching regular classes for Aikido students and cross training classes for Tae Kwon Do students, Christian has taught several Aikido-focused weapons seminars for Tae Kwon Do groups and camps.

Christian first began training in martial arts in 1999 in a classical/non-sport hard-style Tae Kwon Do with Chung Do Kwan USA, with whom he currently holds the rank of sandan. Training in this style created his emphasis on honest practicality in training.  The ongoing interpretation and examination of the style’s 21 forms, one-step sparring, and other drills designed to test the material with partners created a great platform to appreciate the partner drills of Aikido.

Christian teaches martial arts courses at the collegiate level and provides empowerment-focused self-defense training.  These courses are grounded in research and enriched by his academic and professional experiences.  From obtaining a Master’s Degree in Conflict Resolution to completing a certificate in human services, learning about the strength of empowered communities has been inspirational.  From extensive front-line work experience in emergency medical response to mental health case-management, seeing the impact of our relationships at their worst has been a strong motivator.