Gracie Barra River Oaks, situated in proximity to the Houston Galleria area, offers a martial arts program for children that focuses on teaching practical self-defense techniques and instilling disciplined behavior.
While the core discipline is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), the curriculum directly addresses real-world self-defense needs in a structured format.
Focus on practical self-defense!
The instruction at Gracie Barra River Oaks emphasizes techniques that are effective for children and teenagers to manage conflict without relying on striking. The training primarily involves grappling, control, and positional dominance. Students learn how to respond if they are grabbed or taken to the ground, focusing on skills that neutralize a threat and allow for escape, rather than techniques that escalate confrontation. This practical approach is vital for building confidence and providing functional defensive capabilities.
Consistent development of physical skills!
Regular participation in the BJJ classes ensures consistent physical development. The movements required in BJJ naturally enhance a child’s coordination, balance, and core strength. The structured class environment provides high-intensity activity that supports overall fitness. This physical conditioning is a direct outcome of the training process, benefiting the students’ health and physical competence.
Gracie Barra River Oaks: Experience a new beginning on your Jiu-Jitsu journey!

Emphasis on behavior and focus!
A crucial component of the Gracie Barra River Oaks program is the development of non-physical skills. The curriculum includes direct teaching on the importance of listening, following directions, and showing respect. Students must maintain focus during instruction and controlled sparring (rolling) sessions. This sustained emphasis on discipline and structured interaction aids in improving attention spans and developing a responsible attitude toward training and behavior outside of the school.
Secure and controlled learning environment!
The school maintains a highly controlled environment to ensure safe learning. Techniques are introduced progressively, and practice is strictly supervised by certified instructors. The rules governing interaction and sparring are enforced to prevent reckless behavior and minimize the possibility of injury. This commitment to safety allows parents to be confident that their children are learning effective self-defense skills in a secure setting.
Gracie Barra River Oaks provides children near the Galleria with a structured martial arts education rooted in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The program is designed to deliver practical, non-striking self-defense abilities, improve physical attributes, and cultivate essential values like discipline and respect within a controlled training space.
Getting Started at Gracie Barra Is Easy: SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CLASS!
Gracie Barra River Oaks: Effective martial arts programs for kids of all ages!
Gracie Barra River Oaks: A Premier Martial Arts Academy in Houston!
Gracie Barra River Oaks is a premier martial arts academy located in Houston, Texas. Founded by Professor Ulpiano Malachias, a world-renowned Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner, the academy offers top-notch training in Jiu Jitsu and mixed martial arts. Professor Malachias has been involved in athletics and martial arts from a young age, beginning with Judo at the age of 4 and then transitioning to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at 17.
Under the leadership of Professor Malachias, Gracie Barra River Oaks has grown and expanded to a new, larger 10,000 sqft location in 2016. The academy offers a wide range of training programs to suit students of all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.
One of Professor Malachias greatest achievements is his success as a black belt competitor in the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) competitions. He has won multiple championships and medals, including the Asian Championship in 2006, American National Championship in 2004, 2005, and 2008, and Pan American Championship Silver Medal in 2010, among others. He is also the 2022 IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship Open Gold Medalist.
Gracie Barra River Oaks: Experience a new beginning on your Jiu-Jitsu journey!
Professor Malachias is committed to continuously improving his teaching skills and his own knowledge and skill in Jiu Jitsu. He is a certified IBJJF referee and has served as a referee in countless IBJJF tournaments, including some widely watched finals.
At Gracie Barra River Oaks, students have access to over 700 Gracie Barra Schools worldwide, professional-quality Jiu-Jitsu gear, and online resources to further their training. The academy promotes a holistic perspective to Jiu-Jitsu, including physical and mental wellness. All GB Schools are supervised by a Gracie Barra certified instructor, who supports students and helps each one achieve their potential through challenging training programs. Each class at Gracie Barra River Oaks is customized to offer maximum benefit for the students in attendance.
In summary, Gracie Barra River Oaks is a world-class martial arts academy with a strong commitment to excellence and dedication to Jiu-Jitsu. With Professor Ulpiano Malachias at the helm, students can expect top-notch training and support in their journey to becoming skilled practitioners of Jiu Jitsu and mixed martial arts.
Gracie Barra River Oaks: Effective martial arts programs for kids of all ages!
Self-defense for kids near the Galleria in Houston | Phone: +1 (281) 974-2544

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Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in River - Oaks Texas
Email: info@gbriveroaks.com
URL: https://gbriveroaks.com/
| Monday | 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Thursday | 6:15 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM |
