Bayou Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense

Bayou Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense in Baton Rouge is led by Professor Kevin Bellard, a Gracie black belt under Master Ralph Gracie. Professor Bellard brings decades of experience and a direct connection to the Gracie family’s tradition, shaping the academy’s approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, self-defense, and martial arts education. The teaching team includes instructors with backgrounds in both Jiu-Jitsu and Judo, such as Professor Peygan LaFont, Professor David Lee, and Sensei Dane Grandt, offering students a blend of grappling disciplines rooted in established lineage. Classes at Bayou Jiu Jitsu cover a wide range, with programs for both kids and adults. The kids’ program welcomes ages 4 to 12 and emphasizes not only Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals but also Judo, wrestling, and practical self-defense, with a focus on bully prevention. Adult students train directly under Professor Bellard and other black belt instructors, learning techniques that span traditional gi Jiu-Jitsu, no-gi grappling, Judo, MMA skills, and wrestling. The academy also runs dedicated self-defense classes, designed to give practical skills for real-world situations. Training is structured and accessible, with open mat sessions available and a facility that is wheelchair accessible. Drop-ins are welcome, and the academy is known for its clean, well-maintained mats and a team of instructors invested in student progress at every level. With its deep local roots and direct Gracie lineage, Bayou Jiu Jitsu offers Baton Rouge a place to learn, train, and grow in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Amenities