For adolescents navigating the complex social and physical environments of the Galleria and Uptown Houston areas, genuine self-confidence is a critical asset.
Gracie Barra River Oaks offers a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) program specifically tailored for teens that serves as a powerful tool for developing both physical self-defense capabilities and internal resilience.
The foundation of this program is effective, practical self-defense. BJJ is taught as a system that relies on mechanics and leverage, allowing teenagers to control and neutralize a physical threat regardless of their opponent’s size or strength. The training moves systematically through defensive positions, escapes from aggressive holds, and techniques for safely managing distance. By learning skills that are proven to work, the physical techniques directly address safety concerns, establishing a concrete sense of security.
Gracie Barra River Oaks: Experience a new beginning on your Jiu-Jitsu journey!

Crucially, the BJJ training environment is designed to be challenging but supportive, which is vital for building confidence. Teens are consistently faced with physical problems that require them to focus, plan, and execute solutions. Successfully overcoming these controlled challenges—such as escaping a difficult pin during practice—builds a verifiable sense of accomplishment and competence. This repeated success translates into increased belief in one’s own ability to handle difficult situations, both on and off the mats.
Beyond the physical curriculum, the structure of the classes at Gracie Barra River Oaks instills discipline and focus. Regular attendance and the necessity of mastering complex movements require patience and dedication. The instructors maintain a professional atmosphere that encourages mutual respect and perseverance. These values are integral to developing a strong, confident self-image.
Gracie Barra River Oaks provides teenagers near Galleria and Uptown Houston with an environment where they gain effective self-defense skills and, simultaneously, cultivate mental strength and self-assurance. The BJJ program is an investment in their physical safety and emotional well-being.
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!
Confidence building self-defense for teens in Galleria / Uptown 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 |