Living Defense

Living Defense Martial Arts was founded by Master Danny Dring and has been operating in Sherwood, Arkansas for the last 25 years. What started as a forward-thinking martial arts academy has grown into a full-service training facility offering everything from kids' classes to professional concealed carry certification.

Master Dring cross-trained in boxing, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu before cross-training became standard—and that philosophy shaped the entire academy. The facility focuses on real work yielding real results in a safe, family-friendly environment where students actually progress rather than just show up.

Kids Martial Arts - Little Dragons (3-5 years): Taekwondo fundamentals, flexibility, coordination, balance - Youth (5-12 years): Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, self-defense, striking, respect

Adult Martial Arts - Taekwondo: Physical fitness, flexibility, self-confidence - Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Ground techniques, positional control, rolling - Weeping Style Jujutsu: Standing joint locks and control holds for self-defense - Boxing/Kickboxing: High-intensity conditioning and striking - Mixed Martial Arts: Standup and ground game combined for cage or fitness

Kickboxing High-intensity fat-blasting workouts. Students learn striking while getting in shape fast.

Concealed Carry Pistol Class Master Dring (Arkansas State Police Instructor #95-118, certified ASP-118) teaches concealed carry certification. He's a reserve deputy for Pulaski County with over 20 years of weapons handling experience. Classes cover safe weapon handling, discharge, and legal concealed carry protection. Individual and group applications accepted.

The gym includes heavy bags, Thai pads, kettlebells, weight lifting equipment, and full training space for ground work and striking. Classes rotate to keep training varied and prevent burnout.

"Amazing selfless instructors... Master Dring is phenomenal and Coach Tony is awesome with young people. Very affordable!" — Rachel Davidson, Google Review

"I've lost over 30 pounds since going there but I have also found lifelong friends! Everything they offer is top notch." — Jonathan Toups, Google Review

"The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful. This is a great place to get in shape and learn about the martial arts." — Jonathan Toups, Google Review

LDMA accepts students from Sherwood, Gravel Ridge, Jacksonville, North Little Rock, and surrounding areas.