Kodokai Dojo

Women have unique concerns when choosing a martial art school, and for good reason. Many Rhode Island martial arts schools are specialized in ways that are less than ideal for women. There are the male-dominated mixed martial arts (MMA) schools that focus on grappling and "ground and pound". On the other end on the spectrum there are the over-commercialized "karate" schools that focus on kids and have little of substance to offer adults.

The Kodokai is different because we are the only school around with an instructor who was trained in Japan. We offer classes in authentic martial arts with an emphasis on training the mind, body and spirit. Our method, brought directly from the source, is an extraordinary self-defense system and so much more.

We provide personalized training in a safe and respectful environment. Our practice is noncompetitive. We come together in the Dojo with common interests and a spirit of cooperation and support. 

We do not have "all female classes". Since everyone is capable of developing effective skills we need not train separately. By working together we all benefit. You will be partnered with both men and women.

Our unique martial art is called Motobu Udundi. Though it was developed centuries ago, it is ideal for today's world. And you won't find it at any other school. We had to go to Japan to learn it.

Our martial art is ideal for smaller people. It incorporates flowing movement and techniques that don't rely upon upper body strength.

We teach you to use the weight and movement of your body rather than muscle power. You will learn to use fluid movement to escape or to counter an attack and will practice the use of momentum, centrifugal force and leverage to maximize your effectiveness. You will learn throws and joint locks which use the enemies force against him. 

Our classes begin and end with a short meditation. Each class also has a period of muscle relaxation and stretching and core body conditioning exercise. You will get a great cardio workout as you learn useful skills. By the time class ends you'll be exhausted but energized, you'll have shed your stress, burned a ton of calories, laughed a bit and sweat a lot. You will have fun and leave feeling good!

Your training can also include study of the samurai sword which offers a great physical and mental challenge and beautiful flowing movements that generate incredible power. Another consideration is Traditional Okinawan dance- a historical component of this martial art. Dance is a graceful, slow meditation with hidden martial arts techniques. These movements are rarely seen in America.

Whether you seek fitness, self-defense, artistic expression or a practice for developing your mind, body and spirit, the Kodokai provides opportunities for you that you will not find elsewhere in Rhode Island.

Our spacious school provides a clean, calm environment immensely different from the typical small, noisy, and harsh neighborhood "karate" school. The Kodokai is not simply "karate lessons". The Kodokai is a lifestyle.