A non-profit community dedicated to peace, health, and safety.
(401) 274-7671 - aikido@budojo.com
We are a not-for-profit organization providing physical fitness programs to children and adults in the field of the martial arts (Aikido, Aiki-Sword, and Aiki-Staff, as well as Zen/Budo), which is well known to promote confidence, focus, appreciation, inspiration, and integrity among its practitioners. We believe that our clients become the finest students at school and the most successful owners and employees of businesses as well as being among the most well respected members of the community. We offer one month free programs to children and to adults, and provide scholarships for those children and their families who demonstrate the financial need and the sincerity to succeed. Our Black Belt Club program is second to none in providing top of the line curriculum and instruction to motivate, excite, and develop the skills of our students, both in the martial arts and for life. Give us a call and talk to us about your goals. We will help you to succeed!
Aikido - Downtown provides beginners with caring and motivating instruction. The practice environment is individualized and fun so that everyone learns in a comfortable environment. All students practice at their own pace while working together to help each other learn. Aikido is a Japanese Art of Self-Defense that is easy to do and yet challenging enough to provide a moderate level of exercise for health benefits. As you advance in your skills, you'll be able to practice a little faster for an even more exciting and vigorous workout.
The idea of a peaceful martial art seems at first to be paradoxical and self-contradictory. But in this respect, Aikido is perhaps the most unique and beautiful of all the martial arts: it is defensive and non-aggressive both in its philosophy and techniques, yet incredibly versatile and practical.
Aikidoists do not try to initiate attacks, win fights, or defeat opponents. Instead, they seek to control and neutralize an 
attack not through sheer physical strength, but rather through flowing
circular motions that blend with the energy of an attack and redirect that energy back through the attacker.
Instead of directly controlling an attack, the techniques of Aikido are designed to harmonize with the power and direction of the attack and convert it into a force that will unbalance the attacker and render him or her helpless. Attacks are then neutralized by the use of various compliant wristlocks and arm pins, rather than through aggressive kicks or blows.
The Japanese word "Aikido" is made up of three characters: Ai, Ki, and Do. Ai means to join, unify, or harmonize. Ki means energy or spirit, particularly a universal life force, essence, or the forces of nature. Do means a path or way of life, and signifies that Aikido involves not only self-defense techniques, but also positive character-building ideals, which a person can incorporate into his or her life. Taken together, the three characters mean "The Way of Harmony with the Spirit of the Universe."
Rhode Island Aikikai Aikido - Downtown
153 Weybosset Street
Providence, Rhode Island 02903
(401) 274-7671 - aikido@budojo.com