SPARKS — The Sparks Parks and Recreation Department is kicking off a series of youth and adult karate classes.

The youth classes for boys and girls ages 8 to 13 will take place from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays. Classes will focus on athletic conditioning, exercise and basic martial arts skills. Participants will also learn about discipline, respect and authority. All children will be expected to remain in good standing in both academics and citizenship in their respective schools.

Adult classes for men and women 14 years and older will take place from 8 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. In addition to athletic conditioning and exercise, the classes will focus on self-defense techniques as well as respect for oneself and others. Students will participate in classes together, as well as in groups catering to individual physical needs and techniques.

The karate classes will be held at the recreation gym at 98 Richards Way for the following sessions: June 8 through 29, July 6 through 27 and Aug. 3 through 24. Cost per youth session for is $36 or $30 for Sparks residents. Cost per adult session is $48 or $40 for Sparks residents.

For more information and to register, call 353-2376 or log on to www.sparksrec.com.