Gracie Humaitá Austin

"THE BEST martial art and instructors in Austin! From beginner to expert, of any age, if you want to develop the ability to defend yourself against an attacker of any size, in any situation, Jiu Jitsu is the skill and Gracia Humaita Austin is the place. In 1st grade, my son, a very kind young man who isn't confrontational, even when being confronted, was being bullied by a couple of kids at his school. I enrolled him in Systema (Life Ki-do) for almost a year. Nice folks, but after a year, he came away with nothing as far as defensive skills, and the bullying continued. I decided to change course and enrolled him at Gracie Humaita. I had considered Jiu Jitsu at the outset, but decided against it, as I was concerned about the safety of it for a young child. This turned out to be a mistake on my part. The classes are comprised of physical training, technique demonstration, followed by hand to hand against like-sized fellow students. Beginners are matched against beginners, advanced belts matched against advanced belts. The instructors are careful to stay on top of matches and call submissions before strong force is applied. New kids, from 4 and up, are welcome into the class, right along with older kids. In 8 months, my son has gone from being sweet and kind to being sweet, kind and very confident. He's what's known in the martial arts world as a sheepdog. If there's a class bully picking on another kid, he puts an end to it. I'm so proud of him, and appreciate the work of all the coaching staff. Special mention to the lead instructor, Koji Bamba, and the owner, world renowned Paulo Brandao. You guys make a difference."

"Great community that is welcoming and has a class for everyone. I’ve moved around and wanted to do gi and no gi. While I am experienced I enjoyed how the school really tries to give the lower belts attentions and classes for them. There are also great great rolls and training for those with experience. They have a great wrestling class and community is really open and welcoming. Recommended if you move or just visiting"

"Best gi training in central Austin by a long stretch. Paulo is a world class instructor who takes the environment of his gym and the quality of his teaching seriously. Safety is priority number one at all times. Other GHA instructors are top notch and upper belts are always happy to lend a hand. Besides work and home, GHA is where I spend the most time each week, and I wouldn’t have it any other way."

"As an absolute beginner they really were kind, helpful and happy to stay at my level. They didn't talk down to me and respected me. They pushed when it was time and also let me rest. Friendly and ready to work."