Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense
About
Third Ward Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense offers training in mixed martial arts and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, with a curriculum focused on self-defense and fundamental techniques. The gym is led by experienced instructors including founders Sarah and Andrew, and instructor Zach, all of whom hold black belts in jiu-jitsu. While the primary emphasis is on practical self-defense rather than competition, the gym welcomes those interested in competitive training as well. Members appreciate the technical and detailed instruction that helps them understand how to engage with different body types while defending themselves.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the great instruction, describing it as detail-oriented, technical, and focused on self-defense fundamentals. They highlight the welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where everyone from drop-ins to regulars feels warmly received by both coaches and students. Specific coaches like Andrew are mentioned for their teaching approach, which mixes live conceptual games and drills to help students understand techniques. Reviewers also appreciate the balance between structured technique sessions and rolling games, noting the safe, friendly environment and nice facility.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Mark Bud
4 months ago
Great instruction, very detail oriented. Self defense/fundamental jiu jitsu focused curriculum. Not competition-focused, but they still welcome it. Highly recommend.
Lei W
2 years ago
I enjoyed the ease of participation, and learned about how to engage with different body types while defending myself. Great instructors, and it's an inclusive space. Highly recommend for any level!
Andy Nguyen
a year ago
Dropped in for a no-gi session. Great instructors and members. Safe, friendly, very technical and skilled, and nice facility. Thanks for letting me work professor Andrew!
John Burns
4 months ago
Chill place, nice instructors, fun class. I enjoy the balance between techniques and games/rolls.
Steven Yen
a year ago
Dropped in and was warmly welcomed by all the students and coach Andrew. The teaching approach was a mix of live conceptual games and drills, which helped me better understand the concepts. Love the mission and culture and will definitely be back!
paymentsMembership
$30/mo (Self-Defense), $100/mo (Jiu-Jitsu)
Contact
2016 Emancipation Ave, Houston, TX 77003, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 6:45 – 8:30 PM
Tuesday: 6:45 – 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 6:45 – 8:30 PM
Thursday: 6:45 – 8:00 PM
Friday: 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM
Saturday: 11:45 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
groupCoaches & Instructors
Zach
Instructor
Jiu-Jitsu black belt
8 years of coaching experience, including adults and kids programs. Outside of jiu-jitsu he is a cook, luthier, gardener.
Sarah
Founder, Instructor
Jiu-Jitsu black belt
Registered Architect. Affordable housing designer. Creator of programs for women and LGBTQ community at 3WJJ.
Andrew
Founder, Instructor
Jiu-Jitsu 1° black belt
Trained under several teams across the southern US. Scientist in Genomics with a passion for personalized healthcare.