In the heart of the Houston Galleria district, the modern upbringing of a child involves navigating a world that demands both physical resilience and a strong moral compass. While many local activities focus solely on physical output or academic achievement, the philosophy at Gracie Barra River Oaks bridges these two worlds.
By integrating rigorous self-defense training with a dedicated focus on character development, the academy provides a holistic framework that prepares children to excel both on the mats and in the diverse social landscapes of Houston.
Beyond the physical technique!
The art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is often described as “human chess,” a discipline where leverage and strategy outweigh brute force. At Gracie Barra River Oaks, children learn that self-defense is not merely a collection of physical moves, but a manifestation of mental clarity.
As they master the mechanics of a sweep or an escape, they are simultaneously developing the cognitive ability to solve problems under pressure. This technical proficiency serves as a catalyst for a deeper internal shift; as a child realizes they can defend their physical space, their need for outward aggression vanishes, replaced by a quiet, unshakeable self-assurance.
Gracie Barra River Oaks: Experience a new beginning on your Jiu-Jitsu journey!

The classroom of character!
The mats of the Houston Galleria academy serve as a unique laboratory for social and emotional growth. Character development at Gracie Barra River Oaks is not taught through lectures, but through action and interaction. Students are immersed in a culture that demands punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and empathy for training partners.
When a child shakes hands with an opponent or listens intently to an instructor’s guidance, they are practicing the fundamental virtues of humility and discipline. These daily rituals instill a sense of integrity that becomes a permanent part of the child’s personality, guiding their decisions long after they have left the academy.
Empowering future leaders!
The ultimate goal of the training near the Houston Galleria is to produce individuals who are as compassionate as they are capable. By facing the challenges inherent in martial arts—the frustration of a difficult technique and the triumph of a hard-earned promotion—children learn the value of perseverance.
Gracie Barra River Oaks fosters a sense of personal responsibility, teaching youth that their progress is a direct result of their own dedication. This internal drive, combined with a deep-seated respect for others, equips them to be leaders in their schools and communities, standing up for what is right with the confidence of a true martial artist.
In choosing this path, families are doing more than enrolling their children in a sports program; they are placing them in an environment that prizes the development of the soul as much as the strength of the body. Gracie Barra River Oaks remains a pillar of the community, dedicated to shaping the next generation into resilient, ethical, and empowered individuals.
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 & character development for kids near Houston Galleria | 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 |