LAPLACE — Men, women and children interested in learning self-defense can sign up for Brazilian jiu jitsu classes with Gracie United – Team Jucao, located at 299 Belle Terre Blvd. in LaPlace.

The first week of instruction is free. Those who wish to continue may enter a 12-month contract for $100 a month, which includes registration, belt checks and a uniform.

“Brazilian jiu jitsu teaches smaller people to defend themselves against larger people,” said Daniel Foote, leader of Gracie United LaPlace. “We practice how to get off the ground and into a dominant position to escape an attacker.”

Jiu jitsu self-defense classes are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays. The women’s only class begins at 5:15 p.m., followed by a children’s class at 6:15 p.m. and an adult class open to men and women at 7 p.m.

On Wednesdays, kickboxing classes are open to children at 5:30 p.m. and adults at 6:30 p.m. According to Foote, kickboxing differs from jiu jitsu because it covers more offensive tactics, including punching and kicking.

Aside from learning vital self-defense skills, Foote said students benefit from routine rigorous exercise. “You burn between 600 and 900 calories a class and get a great core workout,” Foote said.

Gracie United – Team Jucao is the largest Brazilian jiu jitsu organization in Louisiana and in the South. Members who sign up in LaPlace also have access to other locations, including Ascension, Ponchatoula, Mandeville, Slidell and Baton Rouge.

For more information, contact Foote at 985-662-6155.

— By Brooke Robichaux