Train for the Moment You Hope Never Comes.
Master real-world self-defense techniques today.
Train for the Moment You Hope Never Comes.
Master real-world self-defense techniques today.
Empower the Mind. Condition the Body. Execute the Plan.
Real-World Self-Defense for Real Life
You insure your car, your home, and your health—so why not your personal safety? In the time it takes for help to arrive, will you be ready to protect yourself and those you love?
Who We Train—and Why It Matters
From solo travelers to entire teams, Active Defense Solutions delivers
self-protection training tailored to your lifestyle and threat level.
Whether you're a real estate agent showing homes alone, a college student in a new city, or a parent with loved ones to protect, we give you the tools and mindset to survive.
Your Defense Plan Starts Here
Our programs blend soft skills like situational awareness and fear management with hands-on tactics for real-world attacks. You’ll learn to de-escalate, detect danger early, and defend yourself under pressure. Programs are available in progressive levels to match
your experience and confidence.
About Active Defense Solutions
ADS Philosophy
ADS Philosophy
ADS Philosophy
Active Defense Solutions (ADS) was founded
by lifelong martial artists Darren Marr and Marcus Wenner, who share a deep passion for practical, real-world self-protection. Through decades of experience and research, they identified a critical gap in traditional martial arts training: the disconnect between theory and true self-defense. Too
Active Defense Solutions (ADS) was founded
by lifelong martial artists Darren Marr and Marcus Wenner, who share a deep passion for practical, real-world self-protection. Through decades of experience and research, they identified a critical gap in traditional martial arts training: the disconnect between theory and true self-defense. Too often, programs neglect two essential components—first, the soft skills needed to recognize and de-escalate potential threats; and second, the ability to react quickly and
use the body as an effective tool for survival
and escape.
Darren Marr
ADS Philosophy
ADS Philosophy
Darren Marr is a 7th-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and a former Team Canada competitor, earning gold, silver, and bronze in both kata and kumite on the international stage. His experience also includes training in Judo, real-world security roles, and working the front lines as a bouncer and doorman. But beyond the titles and trophi
Darren Marr is a 7th-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and a former Team Canada competitor, earning gold, silver, and bronze in both kata and kumite on the international stage. His experience also includes training in Judo, real-world security roles, and working the front lines as a bouncer and doorman. But beyond the titles and trophies is a deeper mission: giving everyday people the tools, mindset, and confidence to stay safe in an unpredictable world. After decades of teaching, one truth stood out—most people only seek out self-defense after something happens. Active Defense Solutions was built to change that. We train you to be ready before trouble starts.
Marcus Wenner
ADS Philosophy
Marcus Wenner
Marcus Wenner is a 4th-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and a former U.S. competitor, having achieved high rankings in both kata and kumite at international competitions. He’s also a certified coach at Comal Active, a CrossFit gym known for its focus on strength, conditioning, and functional movement. Marcus brings a deep understandin
Marcus Wenner is a 4th-degree black belt in Shotokan Karate and a former U.S. competitor, having achieved high rankings in both kata and kumite at international competitions. He’s also a certified coach at Comal Active, a CrossFit gym known for its focus on strength, conditioning, and functional movement. Marcus brings a deep understanding of body mechanics to every session, blending his knowledge of fitness and self-defense to help develop what we believe are the most effective strategies for staying aware and staying safe. His approachable coaching style puts people at ease, and he’s skilled at adapting to all fitness and experience levels—meeting you right where you are.
Real Skills. Real Pressure. Real Preparedness.
We work with:
• Individuals & Families
• Corporate Teams & HR Leaders
• Realtors & Healthcare Professionals
• College Students & Young Adults
• First Responders & Emergency Services
Public & private coaching available
Our classes and programs are built to meet you where you are—whether you're an individual seeking private instruction or part of a large group. We offer a full range of training, from quick 1–2 hour introductory sessions to immersive weekend programs. Each course blends both soft skills—like awareness and de-escalation—with hard skills for hands-on defense and survival. For those ready to go further, we offer ongoing skill-building and advanced scenario-based training that includes pressure testing under realistic stress. Every course is adaptable to your needs—delivered onsite, in-studio, at home, or on location—and customized to fit your environment, workplace, and threat level.
Popular Programs:
Situational
Situational
Situational
• Levels I, II, III & IV
• Home Awareness
• Home Safety Assessment
• Away-to-College Prep
Specialty
Situational
Situational
• Knife Defense
• Active Shooter Response
• Use of Weapons: Planned or Improvised
Scenario
Situational
Scenario
• Transportation car, train, bus etc
• Hotel and Travel
• Custom Scenario Based for Your Specific Needs