The developmental transition from childhood to young adulthood involves significant physiological and psychological changes. For teenagers residing near the Westheimer and Galleria areas of Houston, structured physical activity provides a necessary outlet for energy and a framework for developing motor skills.
Gracie Barra River Oaks offers specialized Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and self-defense programs specifically designed for the adolescent demographic.
Technical curriculum and skill acquisition!
The curriculum for teenagers at this location focuses on the fundamental mechanics of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Unlike striking-based martial arts, BJJ prioritizes leverage, joint locks, and chokeholds to neutralize an opponent. Students learn to navigate the various positions of ground grappling, including the guard, side control, and the mount. Instruction is delivered through a systematic approach:
Positional drilling: Repeating specific movements to build muscle memory and coordination.
Live sparring: Practicing techniques against a resisting partner in a controlled environment to test functional application.
Defensive tactics: Learning how to escape holds and maintain distance from a potential aggressor.
Gracie Barra River Oaks: Experience a new beginning on your Jiu-Jitsu journey!

Physical and cognitive development!
Engaging in martial arts at the Galleria-adjacent facility impacts several areas of teen development. The physical demands of the sport increase cardiovascular endurance, core strength, and flexibility. Because BJJ is often described as a physical manifestation of problem-solving, students must use logic and spatial awareness to execute maneuvers successfully.
The environment at Gracie Barra River Oaks is regulated by a strict code of conduct. This structure requires students to follow specific protocols, respect the hierarchy of the mats, and adhere to safety standards. These requirements assist in the development of discipline and focus, which are applicable to academic and professional settings.
Safety and professional instruction!
Safety is the primary operational priority for the teen program. Instructors are trained to oversee all physical interactions to ensure that techniques are performed correctly and that students tap out (signal submission) to prevent injury. The mats are maintained to high hygiene standards, and the facility provides a professional setting for rigorous physical training.
By locating the school off Westheimer, the program is accessible to families in the River Oaks and Galleria districts, providing a centralized hub for teenagers to engage in high-level martial arts instruction without traveling outside the inner loop.
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!
Teen martial arts & self-defense classes off Westheimer by the 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 |