Clark's Self Defense

Clark's Self Defense offers kids martial arts classes that include Kempo Karate, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and boxing, along with options for private lessons in each of these areas. The program also offers an After-School Martial Arts Program with daily Kempo Karate and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes, summer camp, and a variety of kids birthday party themes such as Karate Ninja, Nerf Battles, Bounce House, Glow Nerf, and Glow Dodgeball parties. Additional options include self-defense classes for women, corporate and group self-defense seminars, martial arts tournaments, and special events and workshops for kids, teens, adults, and families.

• Ages: 4–18 years old
• Schedule: After School Program provides care until 6:00pm, with extended care available until 7:00pm

Clark's Self Defense was founded in 1999 by Derrick and Magda Clark. The leadership team includes Derrick Clark as Head Instructor and Founder, Danny Clark as Senior Instructor, and Magda Clark as Director of Operations and Program Coordinator. Derrick Clark holds a 7th Degree Black Belt in Kempo Karate, is a certified brown belt in Jiu-Jitsu, is a certified Pressure Points Instructor, and has more than 35 years of martial arts experience. Danny Clark is a Blue Belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and has ongoing training in boxing, Judo, and Jiu-Jitsu. Instructors are described as experienced, certified, and trained in teaching, safety, and leadership.

The mission of Clark's Self Defense is to help students become stronger, safer, and more confident through structured martial arts training. The program includes the S.A.F.E. (Stopping Attacks Safe and Effectively) curriculum, a child-focused self-defense program created by Derrick Clark. Clark's Self Defense offers seminars, lectures, and demonstrations for schools, colleges, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations, and supports children and families throughout Sarasota and surrounding communities. The school was voted #1 for 2025. A free trial class is available, and classes are described as age-appropriate, structured, and safe, with a supportive, beginner-friendly, safety-focused, respectful, and inclusive training environment. The After School Program also includes fitness activities, character development, homework time, and fun games such as bounce houses and slides, and provides transportation from local schools to the Blaikie Court location. Women-only self-defense classes are available with the option to transition into co-ed programs, and corporate self-defense seminars are tailored for workplace teams. Beginner Adult Gracie Jiu-Jitsu classes are offered without competitive sparring.

Last updated February 13, 2026.