Women and Girls Ages 13 and Up: Can You Defend Yourself?

J.P. Wood Martial Arts America, 249 E. Northwest Highway is offering a two-day course to help women and girls ages 13 and older to defend themselves. 

"A large part of the classes will include learning where, how and what to hit if you are being attacked; how to best defend yourself," said Jan Wood, who will instruct the facility along with her husband John Wood, who both own the business.

Other aspects of the instruction will stress awareness, common sense and controlling the body's actions.

Information about pepper spray, personal alarms and other safety measures women can take to protect themselves also will be provided. 

The first class will be held on Thursday, August 1 and the second part on Thursday, August 8. Both classes will be held from 7:30 p.m. until 9 p.m. 

Female adults and teens age 13 and up are invited to attend, and the cost is $10 for one or both nights. 

To sign up, email jpwoodsmaa@msn.com or call 847-705-8714.