One day, on the island of Okinawa, I was visiting Master Toma in his rustic little home. He was reputed to know a very old martial art, one that many thought had been long lost.
He was 82 years of age and didn't speak English, but when he rose to his feet and demonstrated a few moves on me his technique spoke volumes.
That moment was the catalyst for a huge change in my martial arts practice. I had found something that, in this day of commercialized martial arts, was truly special. It was the way I imagined martial arts to be when I was a kid- not just punching and kicking, but so much more! Mny of our martial arts students come from Cumberland, RI, Lincoln and Providence.
Master Toma at his Home
Now, nine years later and with the support of several teachers in Japan, we can share this art with you. It is to be just what many people have been looking for.
We made many trips to Okinawa to learn this style. We also brought our teachers to Rhode Island several times to insure that we were properly teaching this art.
It is proving to be just what many people have been looking for. Maybe you'd like it, too.
Breakfast in the Dojo, Okinawa
Palace Hand (Motobu-ryu)
Palace Hand was the private martial art of the royal family on Okinawa. For 450 years it was practiced only by the ruling class. Reflecting the travels enjoyed by the nobility, it came from the same roots as several other styles. Some movements hint of kung-fu, others jujitsu or aikido, others Japanese sword, and others are like tai chi. It is very diverse yet refined so that movements flow together easily.
Like many samurai arts, practice is about learning principles of movement rather than memorizing countless techniques. The same principles are used whether one is bare-handed, armed with a sword, or, nowadays, swinging an umbrella. This makes the art very adaptable without being complicated.
Takamiyagi sensei at Kodokai, 70 years of age
This martial art uses the enemies force against him which means it is effective even for smaller people. Movements are fluid rather than rigid and are executed with calmness rather than with physical strength.
It is a straightforward self-defense style with specialized skills for multiple attackers, countless throws and diverse striking drills with the feet, hands, elbows and knees.
Palace Hand is a great fitness method and employs sensible movements which are easier on the joints than many other martial arts. You don't need to be an athlete to enjoy it and it isn't just for the young. Many people are finding that they can enjoy this training long after they have given up karate.
Taira sensei at Kodokai, 80 years of age
Swordwork with Taira sensei on Okinawa
The Kodokai is an ideal choice for those who like the atmosphere and benefits of traditional martial arts but prefer a well-rounded approach to self-defense. We have a friendly noncompetitive atmosphere where you can feel comfortable working at a pace that is appropriate to your level of fitness- in other words, there is no pressure for you to keep up with anyone else.
If you have never studied martial arts we welcome you! If you have years of training in another style this is still an ideal choice. In fact, many people with previous training have joined us. One nice thing about this method is that your previous training won't be wasted. Many of your skills are part of this style.
Serving Cumberland, Lincoln, Woonsocket and all of Northern Rhode Island for decades! Come see what you are missing. Teaching martial arts in Cumberland, Lincoln, Providence and northern Rhode Island since 1999.
(401) 762-2201 175 Eddie Dowling Hwy. (Rt. 146A, Park Square) North Smithfield, RI 02895
