Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for kids & Adults
Beginner-friendly - Family-focused
Self Defense - confidence
Serving Navarre, Mary Esther, Fort Walton Beach, and Gulf Breeze
Navarre’s Home for kids martial arts & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Southern Soul Academy is proud to serve families from Navarre, Mary Esther, Gulf Breeze, and Fort Walton Beach.
Our biggest passion is helping children build confidence, discipline, and respect through Kids Martial Arts (BJJ). In every class, kids learn practical self-defense while developing focus, fitness, and resilience — skills that carry over into school and life.
We’re also proud to serve the whole family. Parents and adults can join our All-Levels Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, and MMA fundamentals classes. Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, or personal growth, you’ll train in a safe, welcoming space with expert coaches who care about your journey.
But Southern Soul Academy is more than a gym — it’s a community. From the moment you step on the mats, you’ll feel the encouragement, connection, and support that makes our academy a second home. Here, families train together, friendships are built, and everyone is empowered to become the best version of themselves.
An award winning Academy
Southern Soul Academy is honored to have been recognized as the Emerald Coast's top martial arts academy. While we're grateful for the awards, we're even more proud of the families, students, and community that made them possible. Every class is another opportunity to earn that trust.
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Change your life today with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Kids BJJ (Ages 2+)
At Southern Soul Academy in Mary Esther, we offer Kids Martial Arts classes to introduce your child to the world of BJJ. With a focus on fun and safety, our experienced instructors teach essential Brazilian Jiu Jitsu techniques and promote discipline, respect, and self-confidence. Through engaging drills and interactive activities, your child will develop valuable skills.
Join our Kids Martial Arts Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class and watch your child thrive on the mats.
Adult BJJ & MMA
Adult Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) offers numerous benefits for individuals of all ages and fitness levels. While many families first discover us through our Kids Martial Arts program, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu isn’t just for kids – It is a highly effective form of self-defense that teaches techniques to handle real-life situations. BJJ promotes physical fitness, improves strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. The mental benefits of Jiu Jitsu include increased discipline, focus, and problem-solving skills. At Southern Soul Academy, we create a supportive community fostering camaraderie and personal growth.
Muay Thai (Striking)
Known as “The Art of Eight Limbs,” Muay Thai is a powerful and dynamic striking art that combines punches, kicks, knees, and elbows into one complete system. It develops strength, endurance, confidence, and mental toughness while delivering an incredible full-body workout. Led by fighter Daniel Dorrough of Top Tier Muay Thai, this program is your chance to improve fitness, learn practical self-defense, or add striking to your Jiu Jitsu or MMA game. At Southern Soul, you’ll experience high-energy training in a supportive, team-focused environment where everyone is welcome.
A Family Martial Arts Academy
Southern Soul Academy is a true family martial arts community for Navarre & Mary Esther. Kids, teens, and adults all have programs designed for their age and experience—so your household can train, grow, and celebrate together. From bully-prevention and confidence for kids to fitness and real skills for adults, you’ll find a welcoming home on our mats.
Curious how families train here?