We threw punches and kicks at Houston’s best martial arts schools—now we feel unstoppable!
If you’d told me a month ago that I’d be sparring with strangers and learning to throw roundhouse kicks without falling flat, I’d have laughed and passed. But here I am, with sore muscles, a bruised ego, and a few new moves!
Houston’s martial arts schools didn’t just teach me techniques; they instilled some serious discipline and a hefty dose of fun (plus, I might finally be able to keep up with those action movie stunts).
Whether you’re looking to start a new hobby, learn self-defense, or challenge yourself like I did, these top schools have you covered. Read on to find out which one might just bring out your inner martial artist!
| How Much Do Martial Arts Schools Cost in Houston? Martial arts schools in Houston cost around $25 to over $500 per month, depending on the school and program. The average monthly cost is around $239, which typically breaks down to approximately $30 per 45-minute class. |
1. Bam Bam Martial Arts Houston
Address: 4007 Bellaire Blvd II
Phone: +1 281-516-5594
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12pm to 8pm
- Saturday: 9am to 12pm
Scott “Bam Bam” Sullivan, the owner of Bam Bam Martial Arts, brings more than 30 years of martial arts expertise to the table. He’s a 3rd-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and certified by the Federação de Jiu-Jitsu do Estado do Rio de Janeiro.
At this Houston academy, you’ll find classes tailored for kids, adults, and even families, with flexible training schedules that let you fit classes into your life, not the other way around.
Plus, their amazing web specials make it easy to try out the program risk-free and experience firsthand how it can benefit you and your family.
Bam Bam Martial Arts is backed by some of the world’s top jiu-jitsu authorities, including the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation, Associação Oriente Jiu-Jitsu, and Confederação Brasileira de Jiu-Jitsu.
They also have a “Character Development” blog packed with tips on building confidence, fostering personal growth, and finding purpose—making Bam Bam Martial Arts more than just a place to learn self-defense.
This focus on character development sets them apart as one of the best martial arts schools in Houston, where both your skills and mindset can grow.
Best after school activity
“Bam Bam Martial Arts Houston is the absolute best after school activity in the Bellaire and West U and Meyerland area.”
-Ms. Barbara, Google Review
Well-kept gym
“Great atmosphere. Well kept gym. The coaches are kind, encouraging and very patient, yet maintain discipline and respect throughout the class.”
-Ms. George, Google Review
2. Revolution Dojo Houston
Address: 319 St Emanuel Street
Phone: +1 832-229-8942
Business hours:
- Monday: 6am to 9:30pm
- Tuesday: 6am to 7:30pm
- Wednesday: 6am to 9:30pm
- Thursday: 12pm to 9:30pm
- Friday: 6am to 8pm
- Saturday: 11am to 12pm
Revolution Dojo offers a range of martial arts programs at both their Houston and Katy locations, including Muay Thai Kickboxing, MMA, Judo, and Kids Martial Arts. Once you’re signed up, you’re welcome to train at either location—a great perk for flexibility.
Their class lineup includes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Judo, Kids Martial Arts, Cardio Kickboxing, and Strength and Conditioning, all designed to fit into your schedule.
What really sets Revolution Dojo apart is the expertise of its instructors. Led by owner Jeff Messina, who brings 27 years of martial arts experience across multiple disciplines, their team includes champion heavyweights and world-class competitors.
While competition isn’t required, it’s certainly encouraged. Students from Revolution Dojo travel to BJJ tournaments worldwide, and their young athletes compete throughout Texas—proof of the dojo’s commitment to skill-building and achievement.
Overall, Revolution Dojo offers a well-rounded, high-caliber training experience for all skill levels. With its expert instructors and supportive environment, it stands out as one of the top martial arts schools in Houston.
Amazing team and facility
“Revolution Dojo is an amazing team and facility. I have been a member over 5 years and couldn’t recommend it more. From beginners to experts, everyone is welcome.”
-Mr. Zabinski, Google Review
Friendly staff, great coaches, and tons of wonderful training partners
“Friendly staff, great coaches, and tons of wonderful training partners coming from all walks of life. They currently have three locations in Houston for a reason.”
-Mr. Hiltebeitel, Google Review
3. Elite Mixed Martial Arts
Address: 3311 Richmond Ave. Suite 101
Phone: +1 832-779-4319
Business hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10am to 10pm
- Friday: 4pm to 9pm
- Saturday: 10am to 2pm
Elite Mixed Martial Arts, located at 3311 Richmond Avenue, is a spacious 4,500-square-foot training facility that’s been serving martial arts enthusiasts since 1993.
What’s impressive here is their setup: they offer over 20 Thai boxing bag stations, along with throwing dummies, slam balls, kick shields, and Muay Thai pads for a full-body workout.
You’ll also find ringside boxing gear and everything needed for intense and effective training sessions.
Classes focus on mastering both fundamental and advanced techniques—from punches, kicks, and take-downs to chokes, joint locks, and throws—helping you improve your balance, build confidence, and transform both mind and body.
Elite MMA’s kickboxing program is especially notable, designed for everyone from beginners to world-class fighters, and it emphasizes body mechanics like footwork, core mobility, and lightning-fast hand speed.
For those looking to dive into sparring, they offer MMA sparring sessions with half-finger gloves, giving you a chance to blend different skills.It’s a fantastic way to learn new techniques while challenging yourself in a supportive setting.
If you’re seeking a place that combines practical self-defense, a high-energy workout, and the fun of martial arts, Elite MMA is the perfect choice.
Offers multiple classes
“A great gym that has multiple classes for whatever you desire in your workout journey. I enjoyed the early classes so I could go to the gym and then have the rest of the day to focus on other things.”
-Ms. Broussard, Google Review
Highly-trained and skilled place with great coaches
“Highly trained and skilled place with great coaches with full of dedication and commitment towards kids growth.”
-Ms. Pam, Google Review
4. Premier Martial Arts River Oaks
Address: 2055 Westheimer Rd #160
Phone: +1 713-581-8075
Business hours:
- Monday and Tuesday: 11am to 9pm
- Wednesday: 10am to 7pm
- Thursday and Friday: 11am to 9pm
Premier Martial Arts River Oaks brings a mix of martial arts disciplines to Houston’s River Oaks neighborhood, with training in karate, krav maga, kickboxing, jiu-jitsu, and taekwondo.
This well-rounded school offers comprehensive programs for both adults and kids, making it a fantastic choice for families looking to train together.
Their adult karate classes are especially popular, offering a fast-paced, social environment where you can push your physical limits while connecting with others.
We also appreciate the variety here—students can learn techniques from multiple disciplines, including taekwondo, karate, krav maga, and kickboxing.
For those new to martial arts, Premier Martial Arts provides an introductory class, giving you a risk-free way to experience their high-quality curriculum firsthand.
What’s more, they offer tailored programs just for kids, which is ideal for families aiming to introduce their children to the world of martial arts.
All in all, Premier Martial Arts River Oaks stands out as one of Houston’s top martial arts schools, with a broad array of classes for every age and skill level.
Great curriculum and excellent coaches
“The coaches are excellent and truly dedicated to student development. The curriculum is great and the location is nice.”
-Ms. Obvintsev, Google Review
Inspiring knowledge of various martial art styles
“Coach Alejandro and Coach Robert are awesome. Their deep knowledge of various Martial arts style combined with their passion for teaching is really inspiring.”
-Ms. Bhongade, Google Review
5. Legacy Martial Arts & Fitness
Address: 12023 Beamer Rd
Phone: +1 832-866-0412
Business hours: Monday to Saturday: 10am to 7pm
Legacy Martial Arts & Fitness is all about building strength in a practical, functional way, catering to all ages and family schedules. With conveniently timed classes, it’s easy to work fitness into your busy life, making this a fantastic option for families.
Their structured training programs allow you to seamlessly incorporate workouts into your day. For kids, the focus goes beyond physical skills; they emphasize mental and emotional development.
They do this by teaching discipline, honesty, and resilience while also equipping children with tools to stay safe from bullies or strangers.
Their “Dragon Martial Arts” program is specifically designed for younger students, providing a structured and engaging environment.
Parents can feel good knowing that the training takes place in a safe, active setting where kids fully grasp the techniques being taught. Plus, Master Walker offers a “Parents Night Out.”
We wholeheartedly recommend their martial arts classes—they’re a worthwhile investment in both time and money, and the cost is quite reasonable.
Amazing instructor
“Our daughters love it. Master Walker is an amazing instructor. He is so great with kids and love working with every single kid.”
-Mr. Martin, Google Review
Instructors are great for kids of all ages
“This is a great dojo and the classes for the kids are awesome. I give Master Walker two thumbs up he is great with kids all ages.”
-Ms. Kirby, Google Review
