Emerald Coast Martial Arts Academy proudly serving Fort Walton Beach since 1978

Emerald Coast Martial Arts Academy has classes in Fort Walton Beach, perfect for kids, teen, and adult martial arts lessons.

Transforming Lives Through Martial Arts

Since day one, our mission has been simple: to change lives—one person at a time—through martial arts, education, and coaching. We’re passionate about creating a safe, welcoming space where students of all ages and backgrounds can grow, thrive, and succeed.

At our school, we believe martial arts is for everyone—regardless of age, gender, or experience level. Our programs are designed to build not only practical self-defense skills but also confidence, focus, and personal discipline.

Whether you’re here to get fit, learn self-defense, or gain life-changing skills, you’ll find a supportive community and a path to achieving your personal best. We stand behind our realistic, results-driven approach—because we know it works.

Join us and discover how martial arts can help you unlock your potential and live your best life.

SENSEI JOE CAYER

Dr. Joe Cayer, Ph.D., 10th Dan

Owner & Head Master Instructor, ECMA

Joe Cayer is a distinguished martial artist, educator, and community leader with over 53 years of experience in martial arts. A former Fort Walton Beach Police Officer and certified Police Tactical Defense Instructor, he has dedicated his career to training individuals in self-defense and personal protection.

Dr. Cayer’s exceptional contributions to martial arts have earned him induction into both the International Black Belt Hall of Fame and the United States Martial Arts Black Belt Hall of Fame. He holds an International Master Instructor Certification from the Eastern USA International Martial Arts Association.

As a decorated international competitor with Team America, Dr. Cayer achieved a remarkable victory at the Irish Cup in Dublin, Ireland, winning Gold in Randori and securing the Grand Champion title by defeating all other gold medalists across weight classes.

Beyond competition, Dr. Cayer has made a lasting impact through decades of volunteerism. The City of Fort Walton Beach honored him with a public proclamation plaque for over 20 years of dedicated service teaching women’s self-defense clinics. Additionally, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office recognized his commitment by naming him Volunteer of the Year for his work in self-defense programs for women and children.

Honors & Accolades

2023 – Recognized by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office for having taught over 30,000 women in his Self-Protection Seminars
2018 – Earned his Ph.D. from EUSAIMAA
2012 – Selected to lead a special martial arts demonstration for Florida Governor Rick Scott and U.S. Navy SEAL Teams 5 & 6 at a veterans’ benefit event
2012 – Inducted into Madison’s Who’s Who for outstanding contributions to martial arts in America
2008 – Received the Silver Spoon Award from the U.S. House of Representatives (Rep. Jeff Miller) for contributions to elderly education
2008 – Honored with the Florida State Leadership Award by the Florida Crime Prevention Association
2007 – Awarded the Bronze Presidential Community Award by President George W. Bush for community service
2003 – Grand Champion in Randori division at the Irish Cup, Dublin, Ireland
10^th Dan Grand Master in Shotokan Karate
1st Degree Black Belt in Combat Jujutsu
Master black belt & Soke (head of family) in Krav Maga
Master black belt in IaiJutsu (art of the sword)
Master black belt in Kajukenbo (Hawaiian Mixed Martial Art)
Police Tactical Instructor
Holds additional black belts in Japanese & American arts
Owns & operates IKI (International Karate Institute) which is present in seven countries worldwide.
Owns & operates ECMA (Emerald Coast Martial Arts)