If you're ready to learn mystical secrets that allow you to defeat multiple armed opponents using only the coolest looking flip kicks and ninja chops - this isn't your school. If your primary concern is learning an incredibly effective form of self-defense that you can test regularly in a practical setting, Gracie Humaita Austin (GHA) is for you. Foremost, the lead instructor at GHA, Paulo Brandao, is one of the best practitioners in the world. Literally. That isn't exaggerated to make a lofty point - if you learn at GHA you are learning from one of the purest sources possible. Paulo has a profound understanding of BJJ and is eager to pass his knowledge to a new generation of students. His teaching style is incredibly conducive to learning. He is helpful and patient, and above all he cares that his students better themselves. It's always impressive to see one of the few four-stripe black belts in the WORLD teaching EVERY class and staying late to answer questions for students of any rank. The instruction at GHA is easily the best in Austin. Paulo's style of teaching fits well with the gym's atmosphere. Many gyms are just that - gyms. GHA is much more like a family. Every person training at GHA trains because they intend to become a better person. The students aren't judgmental of the less skilled, there is zero discrimination of any kind and no RIDICULOUS sexists rhetoric - there is only support and a ubiquitous desire to succeed as a unit. GHA welcomes every person as family into a comfortable learning environment. This school is full of very talented training partners who are eager to help you improve. This attitude also extends to the entire spectrum of student types. You will find a place at GHA whether you are a hobbyist, serious competitor or any combination thereof. On any given Tuesday you will find UFC fighters and world champions, hobbyists and average Joes on the mats. The academy's mantra of One Team, One Family, One Legacy isn't an advertising ploy - it's a fundamental aspect of how GHA operates. Joseph (the owner) also strives to maintain the facility above and beyond usual standards. GHA staff clean the mats after every class. Not at the end of each day - at the end of each class. The school is well ventilated, has spacious locker rooms, a well-kept shower and multiple bathrooms. And best of all - THE PLACE IS HUGE! There is an incredible amount of mat space. No dealing with the cramped conditions that plague many academies. If you're familiar with the art but are unsure about the school, I recommend visiting the academy and speaking to the staff. They will happily answer questions. If you're new to the sport and want to test the waters - you're in luck. GHA offers a free trial class for the curious. The best thing about this free class (which I myself attended) is that you usually receive a 1:1 student to teacher ratio. Though that may increase if the academy is full of visitors, the ratio is low enough so that visitors can receive a detailed answer to every question they can think to ask. GHA is hands down the premier BJJ academy in Austin. I shopped around before joining GHA and must say I've never questioned my decision. read more

I am very fortunate to call Donald Park my instructor, my mentor, my teammate... and my good friend. I have trained with Donald ever since his arrival in Austin some six years ago. When he arrived, I was a well seasoned purple belt and I just wanted to smash on the new brown belt that arrived. He humbled me very quickly and I realized that this is someone that could take my game to levels I could never reach on my own. Soon afterwards, Donald won the Pan Ams and received his black belt from Royler. We began having lunch together regularly and I got to fully understand his philosophy and ideals on jiu jitsu off the mats. The fact that he viewed Gracie Jiu Jitsu for what it was originally intended, as a self-defense/fighting art, resonated within me and I realized that our views were parallel. Donald does not look at it as a series of moves, but rather as an exact and precise science that when applied and understood with perfect technique can be applied by anyone no matter their size or strength or age or gender. Last year, a group of 10 of us began training together with Donald multiple times a week, while Donald navigated the politics and set up of a new academy. The academy, which shares space for the time being with Atomic Athlete, is perfect. Brand new mats, ample space... and a large group of teammates who are more or less, jiu jitsu nerds. I mean that in the best sense I can.... Just about everyone in there would rather be elevating their jiu jitsu games instead of doing just about anything else. What a perfect environment for learning! I have trained at other facilities in Austin, both as a student and a visitor. Honestly, its the best training there is unequivocally! Would you put 87 octane fuel in a Ferrari? Of course not. Would you go to a Michigan State when Princeton is inviting you to be a student? So why sell yourself short with your jiu jitsu training? The training is broken up for the beginning student all the way to the advanced practitioner, from technique classes to full on training and open mat. He has connections around the jiu jitsu world and regularly has these instructors come in for seminars. As the school grows, I am excited about all his plans. Donald is tremendous when working with children and I am looking forward to a kid's program. He knows how to teach. I am lucky to be his student. read more

I trained at this academy for several years, promoted twice, and (worked there) running the social media/emails for a long while. Over time, I both heard of and saw careless things happen and personally experienced situations that made me feel unsupported and unsafe, which ultimately led me to leave. One of them being, after I expressed that the racist language a brown belt (at that time) was using made me uncomfortable. The individual's emotions escalated quickly, and he charged up to my face, cursing me out and yelling racial slurs. The others that were present did nothing. A black belt I looked up to and trusted told me that that behavior should be expected from someone like him (after he left), and another person said that I shouldn't have yelled back at him. When Professor Paulo was informed, he wanted me to accept an apology. I chose not to move forward with that, as I did not feel it would address my concerns. While people come from different backgrounds and hold different beliefs, my expectation is that a jiu-jitsu academy should be a space where everyone is treated with respect. About a year later, I attempted to move forward in good faith by donating to a fundraiser connected to the brown belts' health status. Shortly after, an extremely racist video was directly messaged to me by Professor Paulo. After first claiming he was hacked, even though he still had access to his account, he admitted that I was the only one the was sent the video. It's important to note that years ago, I helped Paulo put all of the emails and passwords on the academy computer to prevent him for forgetting them. The brown belt's partner and Paulo are the only ones who consistently have access to those passwords, to my knowledge. I have seen other academies take active steps to protect their training environment. This academy ultimately did not feel like the right fit for me, so I chose to leave. I'm sharing this so others can make an informed decision based on what they value in a training environment. read more

This was my first visit to Gracie Humaita of Austin, as well as, my first Henry Akins seminar. Honestly I wasn't sure of what to expect, but my expectations were blown out of the water. I drove ten hours each way to attend this seminar and would gladly make the trip again without hesitation. The camaraderie, the articulate instruction, and the overall experience were well worth it. The seminar focused on the true essence of Gracie Jiu-jitsu by concentrating on the basic, fundamental skills that make up its nucleus rather than simply teaching new moves. Donald and the rest of the team were welcoming to me from the moment I stepped in the door and showed me hospitality that is unmatched. Henry and Donald both uphold the tradition of Gracie Jiu-jitsu to the highest level and maintain the legacy of Rickson Gracie through their teaching methodologies. The instruction was very technical, but only focused on the purest fundamentals of Rickson Gracie Jiu-jitsu. I learned more about Gracie Jiu-jitsu in five moves than I have learned in the last five months. This seminar has re-energized and inspired me and I look forward to training with both Henry and Donald again in the near future. Mind-blowing, enlightening, profound...their instruction represents the very pinnacle of Rickson Gracie Jiu-jitsu. Corey J. Richardson Zanshin Gulf Coast Jiu-jitsu Academy read more

I first met Mr. Donald Park around 5 years ago. He was teaching for my instructor that was out for the day. It didn't take long for me to realize that "this man can teach". I was so wowed by his understanding on how to run and manage the mat so that everyone was able to understand the techniques. It does matter if you are a white belt to black. Donald is able to articulate the technique so that everyone is able to learn and understand. From that point on I tried in every way to make it to Donald's class when I heard that he was going to be teaching that night. I also took as many private classes as I could when he was available. Once the word got out that Donald was opening up his own location. I knew this was going to be a great academy and I wanted to be part of it and it's legacy. BTW, I drive 4.5 hr round trip every week just to attend and train at Gracia Humait'a Austin. So, that being said there are much closer academy's that I could attend. But I choose not to. That is how much I enjoy training at his academy. Everyone that I have met at the academy are a great group of people. Who love to trained, share and help. read more

I started training with GHA's owner and main instructor Donald Park on 5/21/2006 at the age of 39 and an out of shape 280 lbs. Professor Park changed my life. I am now 45 and 100 lbs. lighter and a purple belt. Professor Park has such an in-depth understanding of Gracie Jiu Jitsu and can articulate and teach it like no other. He continually strives to better his GJJ and never holds back the knowledge he learns straight from the source--the legendary Gracies, including Master Royler and Master Rickson Gracie. If you want to get in shape, increase your self confidence (which transcends every aspect of your life) Professor Park is your guy. I drove over 1 hour each way at 9:00 p.m. after working 10-12 hours a day, driving pass other BJJ schools, to learn from Donald. I have since moved across the country but will now fly hundreds of miles just to work with Donald. I hope my actions demonstrate what I think of Professor Park. Cannot get any better in Austin, so do your self a favor and walk in his door. You will not regret it. He is a true believer in the true Gracie Jiu Jitsu. Doug Sergent read more

Whether you are brand new to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or have been training for years, Gracie Humaita Austin can accommodate your needs. The main instructor, Paulo Brandao, is the REAL DEAL. He is truly a specialist in the art of jiu jitsu and one of the friendliest people you'll ever meet. From achieving the rank of black belt in 1996 under Royler Gracie, to awarding almost 40 of his own students while living in Brazil, Paulo remains humble and eager to help you achieve your goals. The training partners you'll get to interact with at Gracie Humaita Austin are another great asset of the academy. Most are highly committed to living the martial art lifestyle, creating a positive, friendly, and motivating atmosphere. Professional fighters from the UFC and other MMA organizations also train here regularly, in part due to the unparalleled competition compared to other academies in the Austin area. Gracie Humaita Austin teaches the purest form of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu coupled with the best training partners around. Do yourself a favor and try a class. read more

I have been doing Jiu-Jitsu right at 7 years now and I feel like I have trained in some great places with some really great people. Gracie Humaita Austin is by far better than any where else I have trained. From the administration to the instructors there is great attention to detail. These guys make sure that every part of your experience is perfect. Want to train just to get in shape? No problem. Want to train to be an MMA fighter? Several UFC fighters go here to train. Want to train but feel you are too old (you are not)? There is a whole class full of guys that are 35 to 60. This place has it all. The best layout of mats I have ever seen (3,000 sf worth). All of that and an instructor that is world class. Paulo is incredible. I have had privates with several Gracie's and several world champion black belts but none impressed me as much as Paulo Brandao who teaches us all of the time. If it gets any better than this, I have not seen it yet. read more

Gracie Humaitá Austin is without a doubt the BEST place to train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in central Texas. With Donald Park and Paulo 'Coelho' Brandão at the helm and a number of senior students that regularly attend class the knowledge flow here is pretty astounding. There is plenty to learn here whether you are just starting or have been training for years. Serious competitors and casual practitioners both have a welcome place on these mats. Multiple competitors regularly place at both local and national competitions. The new kids program is already packed and there are plenty of women (my wife is one of them) training as well. The people are friendly and the new facility is clean, accessible (lots of parking), and BIG. I would recommend Gracie Humaitá Austin to anyone wanting to train BJJ in the area and am incredibly grateful for the ability to count myself as a member of the family here. read more

Gracie Humaitá Austin is an Academy for champions in the making. You will not find a purer form of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in the area. This is hands down the best Academy for anyone from recreational to serious competitors. Gracie Humaitá is a place where you will be pushed, learn, grown and discover your true potential. The supportive environment and extremely detailed lessons at Gracie Humaitá Austin will help you reach your goals and achieve the unimaginable. If you want to find a deeper understanding of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and be boss...Come for the fun, and stay for the chokes. read more

No Integrity or honor here. Can't pay their bills. If you are a contractor and get a request to do work from Roy, run! He recently stiffed me on a scheduled repair at his store location here in Austin. I can't believe these people would stiff another small local Austin business and allow another man to pay for a grown mans project. A very big dick move Roy. Lots of other martial arts places for our Austin friends to move and or take their business to. Boycot this business y'all! Dishonest folks running this place. Thx! read more

Outstanding! Am visiting Austin and dropped in and was greeted with an incredibly warm welcome and excellent training. They have a delightful culture, all are willing to show techniques and elevate their partners. Marcus greeted my friend and I as if we were an extended family. It was my friend's first time on the mats. Marcus showed him the basics before they did a 'flow' and he was thrilled. Thank Y'all so much. Will definitely be back! read more

The guys and girls at Gracie Humaita Austin are very welcoming and helpful. Donald is an instructor who strives to build a structure with the curriculum. You don't just drill random moves and then roll. You learn the framework of Gracie JJ that you can build upon. You drill and roll with a purpose. Donald also works hard to inspire you and remind you that you train for a reason, self defense, competition, self improvement etc. read more

Gracie Humaita is the University of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with Donald Park as its tenured Professor. He has a passion for teaching and learning, and is one of the best instructors in the area. On June 30, 2012, Donald brought Henry Akins, a Rickson Gracie Black Belt for an awesome seminar with an emphases on fundamentals and Self-Defense. Thank you Donald and Henry. read more