When we think about violence in Beverly Hills, it's more about chipped nails than vicious street fights. 

But that doesn't mean the land of housewives hasn't mastered a front collar scissor choke.  

Prepare to go Jet Li-ballistic at a moment's notice after a crash course in self-defense from Gracie Academy.

This kung-fu academy's new digs on Beverly Drive looks more like a day spa than a dojo, with bamboo floors and spacious locker rooms featuring granite showers.

Like any good warrior, it shouldn't be judged by its appearance.

But let’s get right down to the mat: their technique is no flash trend.

Grand Master Helio Gracie learned the art of jiu-jitsu in 1920s Brazil, passing his techniques to his eldest son Rorion, who in 1989 opened North America’s first Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Torrance.

Celebrity students range from Ed O'Neill and Michael Clarke Duncan to the slightly more human weapon-like Nicholas Cage, Vin Diesel, and Tommy Lee.

Gracie is gracious too, offering free 90-minute seminars for their opening week of June 4-10.

Sidewalks (beyond Rodeo Drive), watch out.