I started at Galvan’s Martial Arts/Gracie Humaita Brownsville back in 2006 when it was located on Southmost. The school has changed in location and size, but what hasn’t changed is the quality and instruction; crazy thing is, as amazing as it used to be, it’s actually gotten better. Not once have I attended a class where things seemed unorganized or unplanned, Professor Galvan has a very methodical approach to his teaching as he even writes out a lesson plan for the month. His classes have a systematic well thought out organization about them, yet are taught so clear that anyone can follow along regardless of skill level. Apart from the amazing teaching, which is that good, both Professor Manny & Martha have created a family feel to this school. So much so that you see students go from kids to adults in this school. You see entire families train together and grow together here. As many black belts as we have, they have all been homegrown and have stayed here from day 1, which comes to show the great learning and growing environment they have created. I constantly recommend this school to everyone & would never consider any other school apart from this one. Without a doubt 5/5 stars would recommend 👍🏻

If you're searching for a place where high-level jiu-jitsu skills are cultivated alongside a warm and inviting atmosphere, look no further than Gracie Humaita Jiu-Jitsu in Brownsville. It's more than just a jiu-jitsu academy; it's a home away from home, where the love for the art and the warmth of the people create an unforgettable experience. Let me start by saying that Professor Manny, Professor Martha, and the rest of the senior belts at Gracie Humaita are absolute masters of their craft. They are not only skilled practitioners but also exceptional teachers. But what truly sets them apart is their ability to teach with passion and patience. They break down complex techniques into understandable steps and make sure that everyone, from beginners to seasoned competitors, can grasp and apply them effectively. They genuinely care about each student's progress and go the extra mile to help us grow and succeed. But it's not just about the instructors' expertise; it's about the atmosphere they create. From the moment I walked through those doors, I was greeted with genuine smiles and warm welcomes. The sense of community at Gracie Humaita is incredible. It's like joining a big, loving family. Everyone, from the instructors to the fellow students, embraces you with open arms. The camaraderie and support I've experienced here are beyond words. No matter your skill level, you'll find yourself surrounded by people who genuinely want to see you succeed. It's an environment where egos are left at the door, and we all lift each other up. What struck me the most is the friendships I've formed at Gracie Humaita. We train together, we sweat together, and we laugh together. It's amazing how jiu-jitsu brings people from all walks of life together. We celebrate each other's victories and help each other through the challenges. It's a bond that extends beyond the mats, and I'm grateful for the connections I've made. The facilities here are fantastic. The academy is well-maintained, providing a clean and safe training environment. The mats are spacious, allowing us to move freely and comfortably during training sessions. The equipment is top-notch, ensuring that we have everything we need to make the most of our practice. To sum it up, Gracie Humaita Jiu-Jitsu in Brownsville has given me an experience like no other. The instructors' unparalleled skill and dedication, coupled with the warm and inclusive atmosphere, have made it my home away from home. It's a place where I've grown not only in jiu-jitsu but also as a person. If you're looking for a jiu-jitsu academy that offers world-class instruction, a friendly community, and a sense of belonging, look no further. Gracie Humaita at Brownsville is where your jiu-jitsu journey truly becomes extraordinary.

Unlike any other school! Only Gracie Humaita school in the valley with elite brazilian jiu-jitsu lineage coming from Helio Gracie, founder of brazilian jiu-jitsu! Professor Emmanuel Galvan is the most dedicated, knowledgeable, passionate, competitive and exciting instructor you will ever have. Whether you want to lose weight, make friends, learn self-defense or find a new hobby, this is the place to be! -Angela Z

We couldn’t be happier with this academy. The professors and coaches are very attentive and consistently teaching the kids new techniques and matching them up accordingly to exercise what they’ve learned. The structure of the classes is all business but not overbearing, the kids respond very well and interact great with each other. The other parents I speak to seem to feel the same. I definitely see the humble confidence and strength our son has gained.

Both my daughters have come to this school since they were 5 yrs old and it is amazing how confident and strong they’ve grown to be. Master Emmanuel Galvan is very professional and knowledgeable. He and Ms Martha Galvan always emphasize on the importance of discipline, practice and hard work, and our kiddos love them both. Jiu-jitsu coaches (Luis & Chris) are also doing a great job with the children always motivating them to perform well by giving each one of them a little individual coaching during class. I give them 10⭐️

My daughter and I were new to BJJ, and wanted to find a school with a flexible schedule, long track record, a focus on jiujitsu (rather than places that teach a little of everything), and high-level instructors (here, they are all black belts). We found all of this and more here at Gracie Humaita. The last three months of training have been a huge benefit to our entire family. Everyone is welcoming, and the instructors work with you at any level of ability. By this, I mean that you are placed in appropriate classes, and strategically matched with training partners. With regular attendance, this leads to consistent growth, all based on fundamental techniques and principles. Students are genuinely cared about as people beyond a transactional “customer / salesperson” arrangement. Classes have strong supervision and guidance from the instructors, who will observe closely in order to steer you toward mastery of the day’s training. Here, you don’t have to worry about someone with an inflated ego intimidating others, or causing injury. The training area is clean, spacious, and kept at a comfortable temperature. I did my homework in Brownsville and Harlingen before enrolling at this school. If there is a better quality place to train around here, I’m not aware of it. If you are interested in the lineage of the black belt instructors here, look no further than Royler Gracie and Paulo Brandao.

I’ve trained BJJ for more than five years, and after a long time away I came down to train at Gracie Humaita Brownsville. Everyone from the white belts to the black belts was very welcoming and hard-working, the classes were structured logically around a fantastic curriculum. The strong leadership and sense of community was readily apparent, and anyone would be lucky and proud to call themselves a student of this school!

I've had the pleasure of training at Galvan Martial Arts in class and at seminars for many years and I must say they really know their stuff. I've recently started training in BJJ and I'm glad I know a school that takes the time to help you learn by having lessens of the week instead of just random no related things to teach that day like other schools. If you want to get in shape, learn great self defense or to expand on your martial arts skills this is the place to be.

My little girls gave been taking classes since they were 3 years old (on and off until permanently going when my oldest turned 5). Martial arts has given them much more than they can appreciate at this moment but once their older they will understand. They have so much fun with the Jujitsu class not knowing that they now know how to defend themselves from a ground attack. Thank you to all the professors that take their time and are always so patient with the student.

Great training facility for Jiu Jitsu and other martial arts. Professor’s Martha and Manny as well as the other professors are really good. They take the time to make sure you understand. Gracie Humaita is the spot to train they are like family to me.

I've been to a couple different gyms while traveling. None of them compare to the welcoming/competitive spirit this gym provided. Manny and Martha are great instructors and their students are special. Manny is so knowledgeable, he makes teaching a technique look so easy. This gym was so fun to roll at while I stayed in Brownsville. I learned a lot, and would love to go back one day. Thanks again Manny and Martha!

Have enjoyed every single minute spent at this location. Before I first walked in I initially had anxiety about signing up but was immediately greeted happily by everyone. Now a few months in I feel like a part of the family. Head professors here really care about you and your well being. They also are really passionate about what they teach every single day. If you’re considering this gym you for sure won’t regret it, there really is something for everyone here no matter your skill level. Come try out a class see how you like it🙏🏽

From being inactive to going every week, this school has improved my life. From the first day, the attitude of every person present is positive and encouraging, making the beginning difficulties of jiu-jitsu less difficult. After a while, the hours spent at the school will become the best part of your day. The growth potential depends on your investment, from going two days a week to going 5. It is an excellent school with amazing teachers, a wonderful environment, challenging and straightforward; there is something here for anyone.

I highly recommend this gym. The atmosphere is a rare combination of friendly, serious, and fun, and I learn a lot in every class.