Years ago, as a U.S. Marine, I was stationed in the best place in the world for martial arts training- the island of Okinawa, Japan. Over the years I returned to Okinawa several times to continue my studies and my incredible masters travelled to Rhode Island to teach me and my students.
With in-depth training on Okinawa, actual self-defense encounters, and diverse security experience in America, Africa, Europe and Asia, we offer you world-class martial arts informed by real-world pragmatism.With over 40 years of teaching in northern Rhode Island we have seen countless schools come and go.
With in-depth training on Okinawa, actual self-defense encounters, and diverse security experience in America, Africa, Europe and Asia, we offer you world-class martial arts informed by real-world pragmatism.With over 40 years of teaching in northern Rhode Island we have seen countless schools come and go.
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Our specialty is known as the 'bodyguard' martial art developed centuries ago to protect the royal family on Okinawa. It is called Udundi, or Palace Hand. Seldom seen outside Japan this rare style offers a practicality that makes it ideal for todays world. To those unfamiliar with Palace Hand it appears to be a mix of karate, aikido and ju-jitsu, though it is none of these.
Of course no one carries a sword but the strategies, tactics and techniques of the sword can apply to anything you can get your hands on. Weapons classes are a great way to get a moderate workout while learning new and challenging skills. You do not need any martial arts experience and you may join our weapons classes without joining other classes.
Reviews (11)
Kameko Branchaud
Oct 25, 2021
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First, I should disclose that I am Sensei Branchaud’s daughter. I have also been a student of his on and off for nearly 30 years, and this review is based on that.
Kodokai Dojo is an exceptional martial arts school where you can learn a mix of open-hand and weapons skills. It is a privilege to learn from Sensei Branchaud who was trained in Okinawa directly under instructors who were and are masters in their respective styles. The instructors at Kodokai maintain relationships with their senseis in Okinawa, returning there on occasion to receive more training which they are then able to bring
Kodokai Dojo is an exceptional martial arts school where you can learn a mix of open-hand and weapons skills. It is a privilege to learn from Sensei Branchaud who was trained in Okinawa directly under instructors who were and are masters in their respective styles. The instructors at Kodokai maintain relationships with their senseis in Okinawa, returning there on occasion to receive more training which they are then able to bring
Lindsay Aloise
Oct 02, 2021
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Positive: Communication, Professionalism, Quality, Value
I’ve been training here for just about one year, and this dojo has become such an important part of my life. The classes are incredible, the staff is the best, and the other students are kind and helpful. The skills I’m learning are useful, and I only wish I began earlier in my life!
I’ve been training here for just about one year, and this dojo has become such an important part of my life. The classes are incredible, the staff is the best, and the other students are kind and helpful. The skills I’m learning are useful, and I only wish I began earlier in my life!
Danny
Sep 30, 2021
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Been coming here for about a year now and have nothing but positive experiences. As a former Marine I was looking for a ‘legit’ martial art and not a sport/points based dojo. This is the real deal and it’s done extremely well. The instructors are knowledgeable, professional, and friendly and the students are all very welcoming and helpful. Highly recommend to anyone interested in a real self defense system.
Carsen
Sep 04, 2021
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I've been training here for almost 4 years now and I can honestly say this place has become my second home. everyone there is always very friendly and helpful. they teach authentic martial arts straight from Okinawa in a professional, non competitive way. I really value everything I have learned here. in the past 4 years ive gained so much confidence, self discipline, and knowledge of applicable self defense techniques.
Mike Yang
Aug 13, 2021
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Before i stepped into Kodokai I was looking for something real and something authentic.
I got that, and more. They teach things that actually work and not things just for show.
This isn't my first martial arts school, but this is by far the most authentic and helpful school. I've only been here for roughly 5 months and I already feel 10x more confident than I was when I started.
The prices are good, the teaching is outstanding and whether or not you have previous training or none at all, I would highly recommend for you to choose this dojo as I can't say enough good things about it and the people
I got that, and more. They teach things that actually work and not things just for show.
This isn't my first martial arts school, but this is by far the most authentic and helpful school. I've only been here for roughly 5 months and I already feel 10x more confident than I was when I started.
The prices are good, the teaching is outstanding and whether or not you have previous training or none at all, I would highly recommend for you to choose this dojo as I can't say enough good things about it and the people
Michael Shaw
Jan 29, 2019
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Cheyanne Kearsley
Aug 12, 2018
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I have been training for six years, and I can tell you that this is wonderful dojo! Each person is able to learn at their own pace, and is taken seriously. Everyone is very friendly and helpful, and it is great for family. We are encouraged to focus on our technique, not trying to do something faster or harder. There are different class for different ages and skill levels. There is even different attire depending on what you are comfortable with! Bottom line, I love it!
Blaire Becker
Jun 21, 2018
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Emily Boudreau
Jan 22, 2018
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If you are looking for reliable martial arts skills, this is the place to train.
Sensei Dennis Branchaud and Sempai Kim Branchaud take each student's abilities into account and help everyone develop skills at their own pace, and in a way that will be useful in real life situations, not just in a controlled environment. In training at Kodakai I have gained, strength, flexibility, self defense skills, and a sense of being centered that I truly value.
Sensei Dennis Branchaud and Sempai Kim Branchaud take each student's abilities into account and help everyone develop skills at their own pace, and in a way that will be useful in real life situations, not just in a controlled environment. In training at Kodakai I have gained, strength, flexibility, self defense skills, and a sense of being centered that I truly value.
Jill Boday
Aug 17, 2017
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Authentic, positive, worth it! I feel so good after every class, physically and emotionally. Sensei is so knowledgeable and refined in palace hand and karate. He is a master teacher. Kim will welcome you and introduce you to what you need, and will also help you learn on the mats! This is such a great place for any age!!
Nick P.
Dec 11, 2016
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I first discovered Kodokai while searching for a dojo that offered training in a two-sword style or Kenjutsu. After joining, I also started classes in Palace Hand, quickly realizing that both styles benefit one another and eventually even adding Karate to my repertoire to engage my mind and body.
Sensei Branchaud and Sempai Kim have reputable credentials and are truly great teachers, constantly pushing their students to become better and improve their skills in every class. Here they offer Karate, Palace Hand, Sword, Weapons, and Zen Meditation classes straight from Okinawa, Japan. Kodokai is
Sensei Branchaud and Sempai Kim have reputable credentials and are truly great teachers, constantly pushing their students to become better and improve their skills in every class. Here they offer Karate, Palace Hand, Sword, Weapons, and Zen Meditation classes straight from Okinawa, Japan. Kodokai is
