Business Details
48 Years
experience
Martial Arts & Self-Defense Training in North Smithfield, RI
At Kodokai Dojo, we specialize in practical self-defense training rooted in authentic Okinawan martial arts. With over 45 years of combined teaching experience, our instructors bring techniques directly from Okinawa, Japan, focusing on methods that do not rely on strength or size. Our non-competitive environment emphasizes personalized instruction, small class sizes, and safe training practices tailored to adults and youth aged 9-15. We prioritize functional fitness, confidence-building, and practical skills for real-world scenarios, avoiding sport martial arts and tournament-focused training.Our expertise in Palace Hand (Motobu Udundi) and weapons arts like bo-jutsu provides students with diverse, historically grounded self-defense knowledge. We are committed to fostering a welcoming atmosphere where students develop physical and mental resilience while learning effective protection techniques.
Services
Martial Arts Instruction
Self-Defense Training
Weapons Training
Palace Hand (Motobu Udundi)
Youth Classes
Details
- Year established: 1978
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of teaching experience in authentic Okinawan martial arts
- Non-competitive environment with personalized instruction
- Techniques designed for real-world self-defense scenarios
- Instructors trained directly by Okinawan masters
- Focus on safe, adaptable training for all fitness levels
Services
Martial Arts Instruction
We teach authentic Okinawan martial arts emphasizing practical self-defense over sport techniques. Our curriculum focuses on Palace Hand (Motobu Udundi), which includes strikes, throws, and joint locks designed for real-world scenarios. Students develop physical fitness, confidence, and situational awareness through personalized instruction in a non-competitive environment.
Self-Defense Training
Our self-defense programs prioritize techniques that work regardless of size or strength. Training includes multiple attacker scenarios, weapon defense, and de-escalation strategies. We emphasize functional skills over choreographed forms, ensuring students learn practical methods to protect themselves and their loved ones in real-life situations.
Weapons Training
We offer instruction in traditional Okinawan weapons including bo (six-foot staff), katana (samurai sword), and jo (four-foot staff). Classes focus on practical applications, historical context, and safe handling techniques. Training develops spatial awareness, coordination, and the ability to use everyday objects for self-defense while preserving cultural heritage.
Palace Hand (Motobu Udundi)
This rare Okinawan martial art was developed for royal bodyguards and specializes in multiple attacker defense. Our curriculum preserves techniques passed directly from Okinawan masters, combining strikes, throws, and weapon skills. Students learn simultaneous offense/defense strategies and adaptable tactics for modern self-protection scenarios.
Youth Classes
Our youth programs (ages 9-15) build confidence, discipline, and physical fitness through practical self-defense. Classes emphasize character development, social skills, and non-violent conflict resolution while teaching effective protection techniques. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and a safe learning environment for all skill levels.
People
D. Branchaud
Head Instructor
8th degree black belt in Okinawa Kenpo Karate Kobujutsu and 5th degree in Motobu Udundi. Began training in 1978 as a U.S. Marine in Okinawa. Studied under masters Seikichi Odo, Ryoshu Taira, and Tetsuo Takamiyagi. Combines 45+ years of teaching experience with battlefield-tested techniques.
Kim Branchaud
Instructor
4th degree black belt in Karate and Palace Hand. B.A. in Zoology and Education. Teaches youth classes with a focus on patience and personalized instruction. 25+ years of martial arts experience and a keen eye for technical detail.
Questions
What martial arts do you teach?
We specialize in Palace Hand (Motobu Udundi) and Okinawan weapons training, focusing on practical self-defense rather than sport martial arts.
Are classes suitable for beginners?
Yes! We love beginners and provide personalized instruction to help new students start safely and build skills at their own pace.
Do you offer youth programs?
Yes, we teach ages 9-15 with classes that build confidence, discipline, and practical self-defense skills in a safe, non-competitive environment.
Are there contracts or long-term commitments?
No contracts required. Pay month-to-month with no obligation, allowing flexible participation based on your schedule and goals.
How are your instructors qualified?
Our instructors trained directly in Okinawa under 10th-degree black belt masters and hold advanced degrees in their respective martial arts disciplines.
What should I wear for my first class?
We require martial arts uniforms for safety and cleanliness. Street clothes with zippers/snaps are not permitted during training sessions.
