Life Ki-do Austin Martial Arts Dojo

I’ve known Sensei Jonathan Hewitt since the late 1990s, when I first began training at his school. I started learning Tai Chi from him last year. From the moment I started learning Tai Chi with him, I felt completely at home. He has a natural gift for understanding what each student needs, and his teaching style makes both beginners and experienced students feel comfortable while encouraging them to stretch their limits. He doesn't just teach the movements of the form, but also the inner connectivity of it. Sensei Jonathan pours his heart into every class, helping students recognize their progress, appreciate the value they bring, and push beyond their own perceived boundaries. I highly recommend his Tai Chi classes for anyone, whether you’re just starting or looking to deepen your practice.

A truly special place! Our son has been attending Life Ki-do Martial Arts for three years, and the impact has been remarkable. The culture here beautifully blends love and discipline, fostering strength, honor, and respect in every student. Through their thoughtful approach, our son has gained tremendous confidence—both in class and in daily life—and now aspires to earn his black belt one day! What makes LifeKido so unique is how it nurtures both mental and physical well-being, not just for the students but for their entire families. The faculty and staff are the most genuine and caring role models, leading by example and setting a true standard for human kindness. We are deeply grateful for the positive influence Life Ki-do has had on our son and our family. Highly recommended to anyone seeking a martial arts program that builds character, confidence, and compassion in equal measure.

I cannot speak highly enough about Life Kido. My son has been attending classes for a few years now, and the growth and presence I’ve witnessed in him are a direct reflection of the care and guidance offered by the senseis and seppei. Every time I observe a class, I’m astounded by the way they guide the students and I always come away with my own bucket of wisdom. What strikes me most is the wealth of knowledge, continual care, and commitment to learning and self progression that every instructor embodies. Life Kido offers a beautiful balance of martial arts training, developing strength, coordination, and confidence, along with emotional management, presence, body awareness, and communication skills. It’s a space filled with depth, wisdom, and kindness. Truly a beautiful community, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone seeking a martial arts program that nurtures both body and heart.

I truly appreciate the life lessons woven into the mental and physical training that Sensei Deven provides. He has a remarkable ability to recognize each child’s unique needs and addresses them with the same respect and care he teaches the students to show others. The classes reinforce the values I want my son to carry into his everyday life—how he interacts with his environment, his peers, and himself. Each lesson emphasizes balance, awareness, and perspective, creating growth both on and off the mat.

We’ve been part of Life Ki-do for over 3 years now, and it has been such an amazing experience for our family. Even after moving to Lakeway, we still make the drive to Westlake just to train with Sensei Deven. He is incredibly empowering, kind, and patient with kids of all ages. His teaching style balances discipline with encouragement, and he has a gift for connecting with children in a way that builds both confidence and character. Life Ki-do is so much more than a martial arts program—it’s a community that nurtures respect, resilience, and joy in learning. We couldn’t recommend it highly enough!