Protector 'Self-Defense' Workshops

Choosing a self-defense instructor is an important decision. Real self-defense is more than learning a few techniques. It requires sound judgment, practical skills, and instruction from someone with decades of real-world experience.

Sensei JR Ayers has over 45 years of martial arts training and instruction and has dedicated his career to developing people physically, mentally, and professionally. His experience extends far beyond the dojo.

Throughout his career, JR has 'Experience':

• 6th Degree Black Belt in Okinawan Shoubukan Karate
• Former Sarasota County Beach Patrol Chief
• Former Assistant Director of Recreation at New College of Florida
• Former Assistant Director of Recreation at Florida Atlantic University
• Former Director of Security Marriot Corporation
• Founder of Ayers Security Company
• Former Strength and Performance Coach
• American Red Cross Lifeguard Instructor Trainer
• American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Trainer
• Author and educator

This combination of leadership, emergency response, coaching, security, and martial arts experience provides participants with practical instruction designed for real-world situations. 

The Protector Workshop is not a tournament class, a fitness class, or a demonstration of flashy techniques.

It is a practical training experience built around developing awareness, confidence, decision-making, and the ability to protect yourself and those you care about.

Participants learn:

• Situational awareness and threat recognition
• Avoidance and de-escalation strategies
• Effective defensive techniques
• Escapes from common attacks
• Confidence under pressure
• The mindset of a Protector

Every technique is taught with simplicity, realism, and safety in mind. Whether you have never trained before or have previous martial arts experience, the goal is the same: leave with practical skills and greater confidence than when you arrived.

Our mission is simple:

To help ordinary people become more capable, more confident, and better prepared to protect themselves and those they love. 

• Adult-only training 
• Small class sizes (limited to 12 participants) 
• Hands-on instruction 
• No experience required 
• Safe and supportive learning environment 
• Practical training designed for real-world situations 
• Taught by an instructor with more than four decades of experience