Professional Martial Arts

(6 reviews)

1.8 mi

I originally met Sensei Gagne 31 years ago. I have been privileged to be taught by him and his…read moreinstructor Sensei Coffman. There are no harder working traditional karate instructors anywhere I have ever seen. Believe me, I have looked. But it is more than that. They are also decent, compassionate and most importantly humble men. I have the highest respect for both of them. With all that said, this is REAL karate. The strikes are true and effective. You will actually learn to defend yourself if you ever find yourself in the unfortunate circumstance. Interestingly I learned that I did not really know how to fight as well as I had thought when I first started. Something you don't come to understand until you meet someone like Sensei Gagne and his years of expertise and dedication to the art and craft of Karate. I highly recommend that if you are interested in learning martial arts that you take a look at the Okinawan Temple. I would also suggest that you take a look at other schools in the area and watch really carefully too. You'll see that was is being taught at the Okinawan Temple is much much much more effective, even to the untrained eye. We, all of who have taken Karate with Sensei Gagne, are honored and privileged to be taught by one of todays greats in martial arts. I can not recommend the school enough. One last thing. I, myself, have never had to use what I have been taught to any other degree but as to diffuse a situation. Much of that I attribute to the confidence gained from Sensei Gagne. I have, on occasion, had to use some force. But it was minimal as the opposition quickly learned that I actually had some knowledge of fighting. That I can only credit to Sensei Gagne and Sensei Coffman.

I first started training at the Okinawan Temple Karate Studio in 2003 when I was 16 years old. This…read morewas my first experience in a professional martial arts setting. Let me preface this was a personal background: My plan was to join the Marine Corps shortly after High School. I felt that martial arts training would instill discipline, help get me into shape, and prepare me for the combative aspect of joining the Marines. I did not realize HOW MUCH the training I received at the Okinawan Temple would carry into my military career, not only through boot camp and Infantry training, but to a combat deployment to Fallujah, Iraq in 2006. "Muscle memory" was something I was already familiar with as a student under Sensei Gagne's direction. Having a "combat mindset" and "situational awareness" were all terms and mindsets I had already embraced, thanks to my training at the Okinawan Temple. Since having trained at the Okinawn Temple, I have never had to utilize my karate training against someone outside of a monitored atmosphere. Not once. I've had people get in my face and attempt to get me to throw down, but when they look me in the eyes, they see something they've probably never truly seen before: Confidence. Fearlessness. Inside, I'm shaking, because that's what adrenaline does to the body, but outside, I'm cool as a cucumber, thanks to Sensei Gagne's training. Even after several years of being outside the loop, my body KNOWS what to do, thanks to the muscle memory type of military training that Sensei Gagne instills. It is really incredible. Sensei Gagne's leadership abilities are unquestionable and top notch. I have seen him work with young, young children, all the way to senior citizens. Sensei Gagne is patient, compassionate, and humble; all qualities of a true warrior. He will never show frustration, anger, or impatience. He works with men and women of all backgrounds, skill sets, and levels of athleticism. If you enter his dojo with an open mind, you WILL take something away. That's what kept me going back 3 - 4 days a week for almost two years straight. I kept learning more and more, not only about the martial arts, but about my own body, the human psyche, and what happens to us when we are in high stress situations. You will NOT find "Angry Old Men" or Black Belt Bullies at this Dojo! Some dojos are indeed run by huge weight lifters with a "martial arts" background. They have their pack of higher level students that they use to beat on the new students in an attempt to break them. The Okinawan Temple is a dojo built upon RESPECT and HUMILITY. Sensei Gagne is NOT a bully, nor would he ever allow bullies to be promoted within his ranks. We trained HARD. We were training for real life situations against potentially life threatening attackers. But never, not once, did I feel that the higher authorities within the dojo were out to break any of us. Never. The leadership encouraged us to work at our own pace, and we did. But when you look up and see a 40-something-year-old-man sweating right through his uniform, giving 150%, striving to reach a new level of athleticism and discipline, well, you can't help but want to fall in line right behind that attitude, whether you're 70 or 17. The martial artists that I've met at the Okinawan Temple are truly inspiring individuals. People who want to learn how to "beat someone up" or "do back flips" do not last very long. They do not fit in with Sensei Gagne's level of practicality and the way he trains his students to be prepared not only physically, but mentally, for life threatening situations. Go sit in on a class. Watch the discipline and the hard work Sensei Gagne's students put in. You will see an elite level of martial arts mastery that is incredibly hard to find in this part of the country. This truly is a place where highly trained, disciplined, humble warriors are created. This is not a day care for kids or play time for adults; you go there to train. Sweat a little bit. It'll do your body good.

Karate Seminar at the Budokan. Naha, Okinawa Oct 10, 2014

Gregory

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Max

American Martial Arts Smithfield

4.4

(7 reviews)

1.8 mi

Sadly, I was never able to experience an actual class at American Martial Arts, and it was a…read moretremendous disappointment to say the least. I was so excited about attending my first class, as my life is so incredibly busy and I was thrilled to think that I had potentially found a wonderful place to relax. My first class was setup by Kerri, who was an employee at American Martial Arts. We had been in contact for months, but my schedule was so busy that I simply didn't have time to connect. When I realized that there was finally an opening in my otherwise hectic schedule, I immediately reached out to Kerri. We were able to schedule a class, and I was beyond excited. On the day of the class, I nervously entered their facility and was immediately impressed by the size. There was a lot of activity all around, but I found what I thought to be the Reception desk and waited while the woman behind the desk finished with a group that was there. I observed a upbeat and friendly conversation amongst them, and waited patiently for them to finish. Once done, I stepped up to a smiling woman who, upon seeing me, suddenly looked surprised, if not shocked. I was a bit thrown off by her sudden change in demeanor, with her smile completely leaving her face and that smile becoming what could best be described as a scowl. The energy in that space and in that moment became negative and unbalanced, in a way that was uncomfortable. What came next should not have surprised me as the woman's facial expressions were absolutely leading up to it. The now "smile-less" woman looked at me and said "do you need something"? No hello, no niceties, just "do you need something"? I barely knew how to respond, but one thing was abundantly clear, this wasn't a place where I was welcome and I felt an overwhelming need to leave immediately. I attempted to respond with a full sentence, but I was too taken aback to even think, I asked the woman if she could please let Kerri know that I had stopped by, as I had absolutely no intention of spending even another minute there. I then began to leave, but of course this exchange would not be complete without the requisite sarcasm that is to be expected from someone who greets a potential customer in such a manner. No surprise here. When I went home and told my husband what happened, he calmly and quietly explained that I did the right thing by leaving immediately. He said "babe, that wasn't a place for you, and that woman at the front desk was making sure you understood that you were not welcome.". Of course I understood exactly what he meant, but it still saddens me to my very core that people of color are not always welcome. I never, ever, ever pull the race card, but something went very wrong at this place of business, and that woman seeing my face in person ignited it. There was no hiding her contempt and obvious disdain for me, she didn't even try, and I am guessing that she behaves this way because someone has set the tone for that behavior within this place of business.

Excellent Martial Arts school. My son loves it. We were…read morereferred by a school friend and never looked back. It is a family run business and all classes are run by family members . Each instructor excels in teaching techniques and also respect and values.They show dedication and passion. There are varied class times to fit most schedules. The school manages to maintains very reasonable tuition costs. Also worth mentioning they are very active in the community and annually put together Thanksgiving dinners for those in need once again teaching kids the importance of helping people.

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Mastery Martial Arts

(12 reviews)

2.0 mi

Let me start by saying I'm not one to write reviews. However, Mastery of Smithfield deserves one…read more We joined a year and half ago with a kid who was shy and quite. We were not sure if he would like it, so we attended the free week and we quickly saw him wanting to go to class thanks to Mr. Bolte, Ms. Sjostedt and Mr. West. They made him feel welcome every time he was there. He is now part of the leader ship program and loves participating. We recently had a parent teacher meeting at school and every teacher express how he is always working hard, always the 1st one to do what is require in class. Mastery Martial Arts, has help assure the things that we as parents encourage him. Thank you for running an incredible program, creating future leaders.

I cannot say enough good things about Mastery Martial Arts, not only as a whole but the team at…read moreSmithfield has been awesome with my boys. Mr. West takes the time to help my boys with not only the struggles during class but if there are struggles on the home front as well. Ms. Sjostedt holds the kids accountable for their actions on and off the mat. The amount of self esteem and confidence and maturity that has been seen in both the boys over the last few years has been wonderful to see. I am astounded and dumbstruck at points in conversations or when we are doing things around the house. I find myself constantly thinking "who is this person and when did they get so smart and mature" or I watch them take it upon themselves to do chores without me asking. I could go on and on, the bottom line is that I owe a lot to Mr. West and Ms Sjostead for helping my kids and the Mastery program.

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Derderian Academy of Martial Arts

5.3 mi

We have been here more than a year now and both of my kids, ages 4 & 6, are in the Little Tigers &…read moreLittle Dragons class. This is a great dojo and Senseis Raffi & Susan truly care about their students and their families. We still LOVE it here and I'm impressed with how my children have been enriched by DAMA. Definitely try them out if you're looking for a high-quality martial arts studio.

I did a lot of research for a couple weeks for the best martial arts Academy and I'm happy to say I…read morefound it ! Raffi and Susan are very nice,caring,respectful, I can go on and on. My son has been going twice a week for a half hour each class for about 4 months and he loves it so much! Everytime I take him it's still like the first day we went full of excitement and happiness !

With the legendary Guro Dan Inosanto

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Sensei Raffi & Susan meeting Chuck Norris with 2 lucky DAMA students.

Rising Sun Jiu Jitsu

5.4 mi

My son goes to Rising Sun Jiu Jitsu. - It has made such a difference in his listen, following…read moredirections, and self confidence.. It is amazing how a fun and empowering classes can change a child's view of themselves and how they treat others. The owner, Sensei Dean, is always positive and upbeat. Dean is a good example to his students and encourages others - not only his students- to stand up to challenges, to focus on the positive and fully engage in their school work, home life, the community and Jiu Jitsu. At Rising Sun they do not just have Jiu Jitsu classes, they have other activities such as movie nights for their students. I would highly recommend this school to anyone looking to participate in martial arts. It isn't like that big "chain" school - LOL

My son thoroughly enjoys going to this martial arts achool. This school works on self defense,…read moreethics and discipline. They care more about their students well being than their wallets (unlike other "schools").

Another successful belt rest

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Renzo Gracie RI

4.1 mi

Best BJJ gym in the state. Walking through the doors for the first time I was shocked by how much…read morethere was to learn. Everyone welcomed me with open arms and absolutely love being there. They go out of their way to teach you and improve you personally. On top of that, it's cheap compared to others.

Just joined a month ago as a 41 year old white belt. Super supportive and fun group of people to…read moretrain with and learn from. The open and welcoming culture here turns a potentially intimidating combat sport into a comfortable learning environment. I was worried at first about injuries due to my age and because I work with my hands and body (I'm a farmer) and my wife (a purple belt) has been injured numerous times at other gyms. However, all the people I've trained with here so far seem very safety focused and concerned about the well-being of their teammates. Lots of folks here compete but are mostly very supportive of those of us who have no desire to compete and are just here to learn. No talk of politics thus far, which is so nice in this day and age; just group jiu jitsu therapy.

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Mastery Martial Arts

4.2

(16 reviews)

5.6 mi

Mastery has really mastered developing kids confidence, communication, and discipline. My daughter…read morehas been going for 2 years now and the difference in her communication and responsibility at home can't be understated. She actively tries to contribute around the house to try and get yellow stripes and is always so proud of herself when she gets one. She has also gotten much better at having a strong heart when things don't go her way The staff is phenomenal and very welcoming. The community is super supportive and kind. Can't recommend it enough, if you have kiddos definitely check it out!

This place is nothing but a money grab. They lock you into a 6-months contract. It's noting but…read morebelt testing after belts testing. Classes are overcrowded kids get no personal attention or dedication from teachers at all. My child did not learn anything new in those 6 months .

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Self Defense Northeast

(1 review)

5.1 mi

USA KARATE SMITHFIELD is the perfect place to learn, grow, have fun and to meet wonderful students…read moreof all ages. It is a privilege to have a caring, dedicated team of professionals lead you on a wonderful new path of self-discovery in Martial Arts. The location is easily accessible, class times are convenient and the facilities are excellent. I would encourage parents to enroll as well, as a journey shared with your children is a wonderful way to strengthen family relationships. Age is no barrier and it is never too late to learn... Thank you, Shihan, Sensei's and Fellow Students.. Judy Simon - Student

From the owner: Self Defense Northeast is a martial arts school offering modern and effective martial arts training…read morein Smithfield, Rhode Island. We offer award-winning martial arts programs, a staff of qualified instructors, convenient class schedules, a positive family-oriented environment, affordable tuition with convenient payment plans, and a complete line of martial arts supplies. In addition to American Kenpo Karate classes for children, teens, and adults, we also offer classes in Krav Maga, Fitness Boxing, and more. Contact us today for more information!

Fitness Boxing classes

Krav Maga testing

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Kenpo Karate for adults

Narragansett Town Beach

3.6

(121 reviews)

31.1 mi

Great beach. Clean quiet beach. Clean bathrooms. You have to pay to get on the beach but parking…read moreis convenient and only 15 dollars. Great waves and much warmer water than Maine.

This beach doesn't have wifi, forcing me to pay attention to my children. This is unacceptable in…read more2026.

My best guys walking the beach.

The waves at the beach

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Mowglis first time

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Christin S.

15 years ago

I recently enrolled at the KBOX program at the Professional Martial Arts Training Center and all I can say is WOW!!! What an incredible class! The Training Center is large, clean, and professionally run by a friendly, knowledgeable staff. The classes are fun, lively and motivating...I always feel like I get an amazing work out every time I take class! The instructor pushes us to work hard but yet work at our own pace...which is AWESOME! I LOVE this class and this center and would recommend it to anyone trying to find a fun and effective way to get in shape! KBOX IS FANTASTIC!!!! read more

Professional Martial Arts - martialarts - Updated August 2026

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Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Warwick

4.6

(11 reviews)

I am a member of a Gracie Certified Training Center (CTC) down in Virginia in the combatives…read morecurriculum--came here multiple times over the course of a week while visiting family in the area. Had a phenomenal time and here's why: The schedule: there's class availability every day of the week; both AM and PM. The facility: lots of CLEAN and SANITIZED mat space. Changing rooms, restrooms, and seating area are organized, clean, and accommodating. Everything is well-lit and parking is no issue. I'm not from here, but the location isn't hard to get to either. The instructors: This is where this place excels. Top-notch, certified professionals! I primarily received training from Coach Jamie; but also interacted with Coaches Steve and Nate as well. These guys are professional, well-spoken, and knowledgeable. They have a keen eye for keeping an eye on technique, ensuring everyone is SAFE, and fostering an environment where everyone is having fun and learning. Though they specialize and are certified in the Gracie curriculum, they have an extensive background in other disciplines and athletic specialties that further enhance the quality of the product they deliver. The vibe: The most important part. There's a reason why this CTC has a comprehensive schedule--to accommodate all of the students big, small, young, and old from all walks of life that love coming here to learn. Students with prior experience, or without, can come here knowing that they will learn SAFELY and be intentionally paired with a partner that ensures they're learning at an appropriate pace. There is no "sink or swim"--this is controlled, methodical learning for all experience levels. All of the students and instructors I met were genuine and made me feel at home. If you're a beginner--expect to get right into it! Expect to learn safely and be welcomed into the family. Expect to fall in love with the art that will build relationships, challenge you, and most importantly--may save you or your loved ones' lives some day. If you're already in the curriculum or have experience--expect the standard curriculum, but expect to walk away with much more experience than that. The level of detail and knowledge here will change your game. An important distinction for me is learning self defense safely versus learning competition jiu jitsu, which is where I believe the injury risk goes up. I personally know many prior "competitors" that have moved over to the more controlled Gracie curriculum. 10/10 WILL definitely return to this location when I am back in town. If you're on the fence, don't think--just do! It will change your life like it did for my children and I! Renee and Ryon--you have a winning team at this CTC!

If you are thinking of trying out Jiu-jitsu, you must go to Gracie Jiu-jitsu Warwick!! coach Jamie…read moreis the best there is!! safety and fun are #1!! I've earned my combatives belt and pink belt over the last 2 yrs!! I'm about to turn 61 yrs old!! your never too old to try something new!! Highly recommend!! 5 of my Granddaughters are in the Bullyproof program and thriving!! Plus you get To try it out for 10 free classes!

Aikido - Providence Aikikai

(7 reviews)

I am a student at this dojo. The teachers are amazingly patient and understanding of each person's…read moreabilities and skill levels. I was looking for a personal bucket list item to fill and Providence Aikikai was the perfect fit for my personal goal(s). I recommend Aikido for anyone that is looking to improve their physical conditioning and find a balanced martial art practice.

I got into aikido to get myself off the couch and out of the house. I learned about aikido when i…read morewas younger but never got around to actually doing it,and can't believe what an incredible opportunity I've come across. A real aikido dojo with instructors teaching aikido the way it was meant to be taught. One of our chief instructors learned directly from an aikido master instructor who was in turn taught directly by the the founder of aikido himself. An unbelievable lineage for the dojo and stroke of luck for myself! Classes are taught in a relaxed non competitive manner and every student is able to learn at his or her own pace and comfortably . Aikido is a martial art that uses the momentum and energy of the attacker against them,through joint locks and throws and blending with the attack to gain the optimal position on ones attacker. Based off of samurai sword technique it is a true Japanese martial art or budo. Very cool! Aikido has been a great place for me to get active! I have no former martial arts experience. At almost 40 and living with a severe nerve injury that affected my right leg literally from top to bottom,I've been able to get a great workout without any pain and at a pace that's right for me. I quickly found out that adjusting the training to the experience and ability of ones partner is a key principal to a safe and fulfilling workout in aikido. For those looking for a good workout aikido can definitely fulfill that roll as well. I end every class drenched in sweat and definitely hitting my target heart rate something I myself desperately needed. I've also meet some really great people and made some great new friends as a result of studying aikido. I really couldn't have asked for much more!

EP Martial Arts

(4 reviews)

I couldn't be happier with EP Martial Arts! It's more than just a place to get a great work out…read more The camaraderie as a whole is great, the instructors are all well trained, experienced, and masters of their crafts. Bart (the owner) personally answered the phone the first time I called, and welcomed me to take 1-2 weeks and check out all the classes I might want to get involved in, which, I did. I enrolled for the Krav Maga classes, which are fabulous, and was quite quickly persuaded to try Jeet Kun Do, Sancho, Striking, Wing Chun, Kickboxing and my favorite, Jiu Jitsu. There's a reason this gym has 5 stars. I encourage you to check it out, you won't be disappointed!

I came for the Krav Maga classes and I've also given BJJ and Sanshou a try. I'm a beginner and from…read morethe start, I've felt welcomed by the instructors as well each and every member. All of the instructors are excellent and I've been enjoying the small class sizes and the individualized instruction that comes along with that. There are a variety of skill levels catered to in each class and I enjoy both the opportunity to work with others closer to my skill level and to learn from those far more experienced than I. I couldn't recommend more highly!

Bochner's Realistic Self-Defense Training and Fitness Center

4.8

(6 reviews)

I absolutely love this studio. Signed up 3 weeks ago, have followed the nutrition plan exactly as…read morewritten, had 4 workouts and I've lost 7 pounds. So thrilled. Would highly recommend.

I just spent the weekend with 25 women at a annual Strong Camp and it was amazing for a 1000…read moredifferent reasons...one of them being Coach Marc. His self defense class was informative, engaging, and interactive! I feel like I left the class with extremely effective self defense moves should I ( god forbid) ever need them. Coach Marc knew how to put all of us at ease but made sure he instilled confidence in each one of us at the same time. I loved the entire hour! I Highly recommend Bochner's Realistic Self Defense Training.

Self Defense Training Center

I can't recommend Self Defense Training Center highly enough. My daughter has been working with…read more'Mr. Dan' and his team for over a year, and has benefited greatly. The instructors are very good at motivating and teaching children, and my daughter looks forward to her classes. In addition to the kids classes we participate in, the center also offers classes for adults. We heard about this place by word of mouth and have recommended it to our friends as well.

My son and daughter - ages 6 and 8 - started here with Mr. Dan a month ago. They have loved every…read moreminute of it. Mr. Dan is funny and kind, and he has a great staff of instructors who know how to connect with the kids. The facility is super clean and the prices are reasonable. A friend of mine owns a dojo in Baltimore. I sent him to vett this place before we sent the kids there. He gave it a glowing recommendation. You will, too.

Tim Burrill Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Wow! This academy is exactly what you would expect from a solid jujitsu professor. He and his…read morecoaches are first class and so are the students. You'll get a solid roll here! I arrived from Superior, WI and Professor Burrill welcomed me and made me feel like I was one of his student. This would by my gym if I lived here. I'm looking forward to coming back. I rolled Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Each time was the exact same...amazing!

f you've been thinking about trying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or have trained for years, Tim Burrill's is…read morethe place to go. High level training and detailed easy to digest instruction make Jimmy Connor's classes perfect for everyone. The vibe is upbeat and fun & we laugh a lot and work hard. Jimmy, Tim, BJJ & all my training partners have been nothing but a positive force in my life since the first night I stepped on the mat. Awesome instructors and an awesome place for sure.

Master Park's Champion Taekwondo Center

(1 review)

This is truly a special place. My children are not only learning about Korean martial arts - they…read moreare learning about self-discipline, focus, meditation, respect (for self and others) and they are having so much fun! Their character development and how they develop their practice of TKD are equally important. Master Park and the staff that he has trained are remarkably strong and kind mentors and teachers. I cannot recommend this center highly enough! Come check it out- you and your children will be eager to get on the mat and give it a try.

Renzo Gracie RI

Icon Boxing Club

4.7

(3 reviews)

There are two types of health clubs. The ones with all the latest gadgets, machines, fruit bars and…read moreTV's (pretty much everything you need to distract you from working out)..and there are gyms! Lots of free weights, grunge type..you know, where you actually sweat. Well, this is one of those places with a twist. There are two separate buildings; side-by-each as we say in RI. One houses the strength conditioning equipment (weights, treadmills) and the other is the cardio side which houses the boxing ring, heavy bags and everything else you would typically find in a MMA environment. What's nice is it's not your typical (Yo, Adrienne!) type gym or mentality. I would estimate it is evenly split 50/50-male/female...as more people become aware of the benefits of this type of cardio/core training. There is instruction (group and private) at all levels including: children's sessions in Boxing and Jujitsu; adult Muay Thai; BJJ, Boxing (non-contact) and sparring (only if you wish). While there are other places that offer some type of self-defense training, this is the ONLY boxing venue in the area. Overall, the best price structure as well. So if you're a beginner-advanced, just want to lose weight....OR MAYBE...you want to learn a good take down move the next time the guy in front of you is about to clear out the crab legs at the buffet...then this is the place.

I did a group free trial boxing class and I felt welcomed right from the start. My coach was Bernie…read moreand he was very professional and encouraging throughout the whole 1 hour workout. The workout in itself is intense and a lot of fun. I was really impressed with the whole experience and will definitely be coming back. Recommend it 100%.

Master Lees US Taekwondo of Warwick and Cranston