Welcome to Top Defense Martial Arts & Combatives
Teaching Martial Arts in the Elkton, MD and Newark, DE area.
We specialize in traditional Japanese Ju-jutsu and self-defense.
Our Journey and Legacy
With over 40 years of martial arts experience and 24 years of instructing, we recognized a gap between ‘kids’ karate’ programs and combat sports gyms. To bridge this, we established Top Defense Martial Arts & Combatives to offer authentic Japanese Ju-jutsu training combined with practical self-defense. Our Elkton and Newark locations have become hubs where students of all ages develop resilience, respect, and real-world skills.
Our Mission and Core Values
Empowerment Through Training
We provide accessible martial arts programs that build confidence and resilience in our Elkton and Newark communities.
Community and Growth
Our dojo fosters a supportive environment, encouraging students to uplift each other throughout their martial arts journey.
Safety and Professionalism
We ensure a safe, welcoming space for all skill levels, emphasizing professional instruction and student well-being.
Innovative Techniques
Our curriculum combines traditional Japanese Ju-jutsu with modern self-defense, incorporating live drills and weapons training.
Our Unique Training Approach
Traditional Japanese Ju-jutsu
Experience the authentic techniques of Japanese Ju-jutsu, focusing on leverage, balance, and precision.
Modern Self-Defense Techniques
Learn practical skills tailored for real-world situations, empowering you to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Comprehensive Weapons Training
Engage in staff and sword classes, expanding your martial arts expertise with traditional weaponry.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Sensei Mark Bramble
Founder & Head Instructor
Founder and Head Instructor with over 40 years of martial arts experience, serving as the US Regional Leader (Shibu-cho) for the Kobukan Kobudo Renmei. In addition to holding 4th degree black belt in the Kobukan, Mark holds mastership licenses in Daiwado Jujutsu and Yagyu Shingan Ryu Kacchu Yawara, as well as having successfully completed Gracie Combatives in 2021. He is an award-winning author and taught thousands over the course of his career, including LEO, private security, Fortune 25 companies, and actors.
Sensei Joy Bramble
Senior Instructor
Joy has been training in martial arts since 2007 and has traveled around the world to learn and train in martial arts. She currently holds a 4th degree black belt in the Kobukan and has a passion for showing ladies the value and importance of martial arts training. Joy is also a strong advocate for meditation and breathing exercises, along with our Women’s Defensive Tactics courses.
Sensei Chris Gordon
Senior Instructor
Chris has been training under Mark Bramble for over 15 years and holds the rank of 2nd degree black belt in the Kobukan. In addition to helping with instruction at Top Defense MAC, Chris also runs his own martial arts training group in Wyoming, Delaware.
