Gracie Barra River Oaks, located in Houston, Texas, offers structured martial arts classes focused on teaching verifiable, self-defense skills.
The academy specializes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), a grappling-based martial art recognized for its effective techniques in controlling and submitting an opponent. The instruction methodology emphasizes technical proficiency and consistent application of BJJ principles.
Program structure!
The academy organizes its programs based on age and experience level. For adults, classes are divided into fundamental, advanced, and black belt programs. The Fundamentals Program introduces core BJJ techniques, covering essential movements, submissions, and defensive strategies. This phase ensures students establish a solid understanding of the art’s basic mechanics before progressing. The Advanced Program builds on this foundation, introducing more complex sequences, takedowns, and strategic applications necessary for competition or higher-level sparring.
The children’s programs are structured similarly, adapted to different age groups. Instruction focuses on motor skill development, discipline, and the practical application of BJJ movements in a controlled environment. The curriculum is designed to teach effective self-defense techniques without emphasizing unnecessary aggression.
Gracie Barra River Oaks: Experience a new beginning on your Jiu-Jitsu journey!

Focus on practical application!
Training sessions at Gracie Barra River Oaks consistently incorporate drilling and live sparring, often referred to as “rolling.” Drilling involves repetitive practice of specific techniques with a partner to achieve muscle memory and improve execution speed. Live sparring is a key component where students practice applying their learned skills against a fully resisting opponent.
This aspect of the training is crucial for transferring techniques from theory to practical, real-world application. Instructors closely supervise these sessions to provide immediate, technical feedback and ensure a safe training environment. The emphasis remains on the technical effectiveness of the movements rather than physical strength.
Instruction and environment!
The instruction staff at Gracie Barra River Oaks consists of certified Black Belts within the Gracie Barra organization. They adhere to a standardized curriculum, ensuring consistency in the quality and content of the lessons. The academy provides a clean, dedicated facility for training, which includes matted areas designed for safe grappling practice. The environment is maintained to be supportive and focused on individual technical improvement. The primary goal is to provide a systematic pathway for students to develop authentic, functional martial arts skills applicable for self-defense and athletic development.
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!
Martial arts classes in Houston, TX that teach real skills

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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 |
