Adult Karate & Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Classes in Sarasota, FL


Adult martial arts classes at Clark’s Self Defense in Sarasota, FL are designed to help adults improve fitness, confidence, and real-world self-defense skills in a supportive, professional environment. Whether you are brand new to martial arts or have years of experience, our adult programs offer structured training that meets you where you are and helps you progress at your own pace.


We offer adult Kempo Karate, Beginner Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and Advanced Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes, giving students a well-rounded system that focuses on both stand-up self-defense and ground control with a clear purpose and path for growth.


Adult Kempo Karate training in Sarasota improving fitness, self-defense, and confidence

Adult Kempo Karate Classes


Adult Kempo Karate classes at Clark’s Self Defense combine traditional Kempo empty-hand techniques with practical self-defense applications. Training includes conditioning and stretching exercises, fundamentals, forms, self-defense techniques, controlled sparring, grappling, and weapons training.


Classes are taught by certified Black Belt instructors who focus on proper technique, safety, and real-world application. Adult students train in a structured yet welcoming environment that supports physical fitness, mental focus, and personal confidence. Kempo Karate is ideal for adults looking for a well-rounded martial art that builds strength, coordination, and practical self-defense skills.


Benefits of Kempo Karate Training:

- Practical striking, blocking, and counter-attack techniques
- Improved fitness, flexibility, and coordination
- Increased confidence and mental focus
- Stress relief and discipline through structured training


Kempo Karate emphasizes efficient movements and realistic self-defense scenarios, making it ideal for adults who want effective protection skills while staying active and healthy.


Gracie Jiu Jitsu class for Adults in Sarasota improving strength, confidence and awareness

Beginner Adult Gracie Jiu-Jitsu


Our Beginner Adult Gracie Jiu-Jitsu program introduces students to the self-defense system developed by the Gracie family. This program focuses on leverage, technique, and control, allowing students of all sizes and fitness levels to defend themselves effectively. 


What You’ll Learn in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu:

- Ground self-defense and positional control

- Fundamental grappling techniques

- Escapes from common holds and grabs

- Submission techniques based on leverage rather than strength

- Increased problem-solving and body awareness


Safety is the top priority in our beginner program. There is no competitive sparring, allowing students to learn at a comfortable pace while building confidence and understanding of the techniques. Beginner classes are ideal for adults of all sizes, ages, and fitness levels who want to learn effective self-defense without pressure or intimidation.


Advanced Adult Gracie Jiu-Jitsu


Advanced Adult Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes are designed for students who have mastered the fundamentals and are ready to take their training further. These classes include controlled sparring, advanced techniques, submissions, and positional strategies.


Students train with partners of varying skill levels in an environment that emphasizes learning, cooperation, and continued improvement. Advanced classes help students sharpen their skills, improve physical conditioning, and develop confidence in applying techniques under realistic conditions, all under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is especially valuable for real-life self-defense situations, teaching students how to stay calm and in control even in close-contact encounters.


Why Train as an Adult at Clark’s Self Defense


Adult students choose Clark’s Self Defense because our programs offer more than just physical training. Benefits include:

- Improved fitness and strength

- Increased confidence and self-awareness

- Practical self-defense skills

- Stress relief and mental focus

- A welcoming, supportive training community


Whether your goal is self-defense, fitness, personal growth, or advanced martial arts training, our adult programs are designed to support long-term success.


Who Can Join Our Adult Martial Arts Program?


Our adult programs are open to:

  • Beginners with no prior martial arts experience
  • Adults returning to training after time away
  • Adults with advanced training looking to continue their training
  • Individuals seeking practical self-defense skills
  • Students looking to improve fitness and mental focus


No matter your age or fitness level, you can start today.

Check out our Class Schedule or contact us to schedule your intro class at our Sarasota location.


Get Started with a Free Trial


The best way to experience our adult martial arts classes is to try one for yourself. We offer a free trial class so you can meet our instructors, experience the training environment, and find the program that best fits your goals.

Start Your Free Trial Today!

Start Your Martial Arts Journey Today


Discover how Adult Kempo Karate and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes at Clark’s Self Defense can help you become stronger, more confident, and better prepared for real-world situations.


Frequently Asked Questions

Do you offer adult martial arts classes in Sarasota, Florida?

Yes. Clark’s Self Defense offers adult martial arts classes in Sarasota, Florida, including Kempo Karate and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Our adult programs focus on real-world self-defense, fitness, confidence, and personal growth in a supportive environment.


Are your adult martial arts classes beginner friendly?

Absolutely. Our adult martial arts classes are very beginner friendly and require no prior experience. Instructors provide clear instruction and progress at a pace that allows students to build confidence safely and comfortably.


What is the difference between Kempo Karate and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu?

Kempo Karate focuses on stand-up self-defense, including strikes, blocks, movement, and defensive combinations.
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes ground self-defense, leverage, control, and escape techniques.
Together, these styles create a well-rounded self-defense system for adults.


Am I too old or out of shape to start martial arts?

No. Adults of all ages and fitness levels train at Clark’s Self Defense. Classes are designed to meet students where they are, helping improve strength, flexibility, endurance, and confidence over time.


How often should adults train to see results?

Most adult students train two to three times per week for steady progress. Consistent training leads to faster improvement in fitness and self-defense skills, but even one class per week offers meaningful benefits.


Are the classes focused on sport or self-defense?

Our adult martial arts program focuses primarily on practical, real-world self-defense rather than sport competition. Techniques are designed to be effective, realistic, and applicable to everyday situations.


Do you offer trial classes for adults?

Yes. We offer free trial classes so adults can experience our Kempo Karate and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu programs before enrolling.


What should I wear to my first class?

For your first adult martial arts class, wear comfortable workout clothing. No special equipment or uniform is required for a trial class.


Where is Clark’s Self Defense located?

Clark’s Self Defense is conveniently located at 8261 Blaikie Ct., Sarasota, Florida, serving students from Sarasota and surrounding communities.



How do I get started with adult martial arts training?

Getting started is easy. Contact Clark’s Self Defense to schedule your free trial class and learn more about our adult Kempo Karate and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu programs.

Adult Kempo Karate training in Sarasota improving fitness, self-defense, and confidence