Martial Arts & Self-Defense Classes in Sarasota, FL

Voted #1 Best Karate and self defense school in Sarasota FL

Proudly Voted #1 for 2025

Clark’s Self Defense is honored to be recognized for our commitment to high-quality self-defense training and personal safety education. This award reflects the trust our community places in our instructors, our proven training methods, and our dedication to helping students of all ages build confidence, awareness, and real-world self-defense skills.

Martial arts training in Sarasota, FL that builds confidence, discipline, and real-world

self-defense for kids, teens, and adults.

At Clark’s Self Defense, we help students of all ages grow stronger—physically and mentally—through high-quality martial arts and self-defense training. Whether you’re looking for kids’ martial arts, adult classes, after-school care, practical self-defense, or unforgettable birthday parties our programs are designed to support long-term growth in a safe, welcoming environment. Our experienced instructors will help you grow stronger physically and mentally—on and off the mat.

Schedule a Free Trial Today!

Martial Arts & Self-Defense Programs for Every Age

We offer a variety of programs to meet the needs of families, adults, and individuals throughout Sarasota.


Programs for Kids


Our kids’ programs focus on confidence, respect, coordination, and self-control while keeping training fun and engaging.

- Kids Martial Arts Classes

- After-School Martial Arts Program

- Summer Camp

- Kids Birthday Parties

In addition to our Kids Self Defense Classes parents can also explore our After-School Program and Summer Camp options for structured care beyond class time.

For more fun option parents can plan an unforgettable kids’ birthday party with one of our Karate Ninja, Nerf Battles, Bounce House or Glow Nerf or Dodgeball Parties.


Programs for Teens & Adults


Adult and teen students train in practical martial arts that improve fitness, confidence, and real-world self-defense skills.

- Kempo Karate

- Gracie Jiu-Jitsu

- Boxing

- Private Lessons

Women can also train in women-only self-defense classes or continue in our co-ed programs.  Those looking for more personalized training can explore private lessons for beginners and advanced students.


Specialized Training & Events


We also offer unique opportunities for growth beyond regular classes:

- Self-Defense for Women

- Corporate & Group Self-Defense Seminars

- Martial Arts Tournaments

- Special Events & Workshops


Why Families Choose Clark's Self Defense


  • Expert Instruction: Learn real-world self-defense skills from experienced professionals with years of practical self-defense and martial arts expertise.
  • Comprehensive Programs: We offer a variety of self-defense techniques and martial arts styles, including Kempo Karate, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing and more.
  • All Skill Levels Welcome: From beginners to advanced practitioners, our courses cater to everyone.
  • Family-Friendly: We offer classes for kids, teens, adults, and families, ensuring safety skills are instilled early.
  • Personalized Approach: Tailored training programs to meet your individual goals, whether it’s fitness, self-defense, or self-confidence.


We believe martial arts should help students succeed both on and off the mat.

A Supportive, Professional Training Environment


Our instructors create a learning environment that is:

- Beginner-friendly

- Structured and encouraging

- Safety-focused

- Respectful and inclusive

Students are supported at every level, whether they are training for personal growth, self-defense, fitness, or competition.

Ready to Get Started?


Trying a class is the best way to see if Clark’s Self Defense is the right fit for you or your child.


Your free trial includes:

- A beginner-friendly class

- Guidance from experienced instructors

- A welcoming environment for all ages


Start Your Free Trial

Explore Our Self Defense Programs in Sarasota, FL

Karate for Kids

Kids Karate class in Sarasota building confidence, focus and discipline
Kempo Karate classes for kids at Clark’s Self Defense teach traditional Kempo techniques while helping children develop confidence, discipline, and respect. Classes include age-appropriate conditioning, fundamentals, forms, and self-defense skills in a safe, encouraging environment led by certified instructors who focus on positive growth and having fun while learning.


Karate for Adults

Adult Karate class in Sarasota improving fitness, confidence and self defense skills
Adult Kempo Karate classes at Clark’s Self Defense combine traditional Kempo empty-hand techniques with practical self-defense, conditioning, and controlled sparring. Students train in fundamentals, forms, self-defense applications, and grappling in a supportive environment led by certified instructors, helping adults improve fitness, confidence, and real-world self-defense skills at their own pace.

Self Defense for Women

Women's self-defense class in Sarasota teaching practical personal safety techniques
Women’s self-defense classes at Clark’s Self Defense focus on practical, real-world techniques designed to build confidence, awareness, and personal safety. Training is supportive and empowering, emphasizing simple, effective self-defense skills that work regardless of size, strength, or experience. Women can continue training in women-only classes or transition into co-ed programs as they grow more confident and comfortable.

Jiu-Jitsu Kids

Children's Gracie Jiu-Jitsu class in Sarasota learning grappling and self defense.
Kids Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes at Clark’s Self Defense teach children practical self-defense and grappling skills in a safe, cooperative environment. Classes focus on technique, coordination, and confidence-building while promoting respect, discipline, and teamwork. Young students learn at their own pace under supportive instruction, developing both physical skills and mental focus through fun, engaging training.
Kids learn how to control the aggressor rather than use violence.

Beginner Jiu-Jitsu

Adult Gracie Jiu-Jitsu training in Sarasota focused on fundamentals and real world self defense.
Our Beginner Adult Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes provide a safe, cooperative environment where students learn practical self-defense techniques without competitive sparring. Participants focus on fundamentals, positioning, escapes, and basic grappling while building confidence, fitness, and awareness. Classes are designed for adults of all sizes and experience levels, guided by experienced, certified instructors who emphasize safety and positive growth.

Advanced Adult Jiu-Jitsu 

Advanced Adult Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes in Sarasota focused on submissions and refining ground techniques
Advanced Adult Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes at Clark’s Self Defense challenge students with controlled sparring, advanced ground techniques, submissions, and positional strategies. Students train with partners of all skill levels, refining their skills, improving fitness, and developing real-world self-defense capabilities. Classes are led by certified instructors who provide expert guidance while maintaining a safe, supportive training environment.
 

After School Program

After school martial arts program in Sarasota with structured activities for kids
 Clark’s Self Defense After School Program provides safe, fun, and structured care for children, including transportation from local schools to our Blaikie Court location. Students enjoy daily Kempo Karate and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes, fitness activities, character development, homework time, and fun games like bounce houses and slides. The program helps kids build confidence, discipline, coordination, and social skills in a supportive environment while staying active and engaged until 6:00pm, with extended care available until 7:00pm.

Corporate Workshops

Corporate Self Defense workshops in Sarasota focused of safety awareness and teamwork
Clark’s Self Defense Corporate Seminars offer engaging, hands-on self-defense training tailored for workplace teams. Participants learn practical techniques to stay safe, increase awareness, and respond confidently to potential threats, while building teamwork, morale, and communication skills. Seminars are small, interactive, and led by certified instructors in a supportive environment, and each session can be customized to meet the specific needs of your company or organization.

Private Lessons

Private martial arts lessons in Sarasota with personalized self defense instruction
Private lessons at Clark’s Self Defense provide personalized one-on-one instruction in Kempo Karate, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, or boxing, tailored to each student’s goals and skill level. Ideal for beginners seeking focused guidance or advanced students refining techniques, private lessons offer individualized attention to improve form, fitness, self-defense skills, and overall progress in a safe, supportive environment.

 Birthday Parties

Kids martial arts birthday party in Sarasota with instructor led games and activities
Clark’s Self Defense Birthday Parties make celebrations fun, active, and memorable for kids of all ages. We offer martial arts-themed parties, as well as Nerf battles, dodgeball, bounce houses, and glow parties. Parties are led by trained instructors in a safe and engaging environment, giving children the chance to be active, try new activities, and celebrate with friends while creating unforgettable memories.

Karate Tournaments

Karate Competition, Tournament
Clark’s Self Defense Tournaments provide an exciting and supportive environment for students of all ages to test their skills, build confidence, and have fun. Participants compete in Kempo Karate, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and other martial arts events while learning sportsmanship, discipline, and focus. Our tournaments encourage growth, celebrate achievement, and give students the opportunity to challenge themselves alongside fellow martial artists in a safe and structured setting.

Virtual Lessons

Online martial arts and self defense training offered by Clark's Self Defense
Clark’s Self Defense Virtual Lessons bring high-quality martial arts and self-defense training directly to your home. Students of all ages can learn Kempo Karate, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and boxing through live online classes led by certified instructors. Virtual lessons focus on technique, fitness, coordination, and self-defense skills in a safe, interactive, and convenient environment, making it easy to stay active and continue training from anywhere.
 

What Our Students Say:


“Clark’s Self Defense has helped me gain the confidence to handle any situation. The instructors are knowledgeable, and the environment is welcoming for all skill levels.” – Sarah L.


“I’ve never felt safer since I started training here. The techniques are practical and easy to remember. Highly recommend it!” – John M.


Ready to Take the First Step?


Whether you're new to self-defense or an experienced martial artist, Clark's Self Defense is the right place for you. Explore our classes today and take control of your safety and fitness!


Call Us Now at (941) 225-1065 or Sign Up Online to get started.


Need more time to decide?  Schedule a Free Trial!


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