Train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Under a Machado Black Belt in Spring, TX

Ground Dwellers is Professor Eddie Avelar's academy on Louetta Rd. Kids and adults train real Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, MMA, and Filipino stick fighting. Your first class is free. No contracts, no sign-up fees.

Try a Free Class View Our Schedule Or Call (281) 871-9248

Do These Challenges Sound Familiar?

You feel out of shape and low on energy but aren’t sure where to start.
Growing confidence and mental focus feels harder every year.
Finding it hard to stay consistent with a fitness routine.
You want a new challenge that helps both your body and mind grow stronger.

Sound familiar? We can help. →

Instructors and students at Ground Dwellers Martial Arts Academy

Your Instructor

22 Years on the Mat. 4th Degree Under Carlos Machado.

Professor Eddie Avelar has trained Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for more than 22 years and holds a 4th-degree black belt under Master Carlos Machado. He is over 54 and still rolls live with students every week. You learn the real system, drilled and tested, from someone who has done it since the 1990s.

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Getting Started

Three Steps to Your First Class

Starting is simple. Pick a time, come in, and train. Here is how it works.

Book a Free Class

Pick a day and time that works. We will be ready when you walk in.

Show Up and Train

Wear workout clothes, bring water. A coach walks you through it.

Keep Coming Back

Most people feel the difference in a few weeks. Then we set your program.

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Try It First

One Free Class. Then You Decide.

You have thought about it long enough. Come take a real class, see the room, and meet the coaches. It is free. No sign-up, no pressure. If it is a fit, we will talk next steps.

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What You'll Learn

Skills That Hold Up Against a Resisting Opponent

This is not cardio kickboxing. You learn to control a bigger person, escape from the bottom, finish from the top, and stay calm under pressure. Real technique against someone who is trying to stop you.

What Happens if Nothing Changes?

Without the right direction, it’s easy to remain stuck in old routines, feeling out of shape, less confident, or unprepared for challenges. The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to break that cycle.

Discover Our Programs in Spring, TX

Jiu-Jitsu (16+)

Adult student practicing Jiu-Jitsu at Ground Dwellers

Build Strength & Confidence

Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, ages 16+. Grappling, position, and submissions that let a smaller person control a bigger one. The Carlos Machado system, taught by a 4th-degree black belt.

Start Learning Jiu-Jitsu Today

Kids Martial Arts (5+)

Young girl in kids martial arts class at Ground Dwellers

Confidence, Discipline, and Fun

Kids Jiu-Jitsu, ages 5+. Your child learns to handle a bully, follow instructions, and pay attention. Real self-defense in a class built for kids.

Schedule Your Child’s Free Class

Judo (6+)

Develop Balance, Power, and Technique

Judo, ages 6+. Throws, pins, and takedowns. Learn to control an opponent and get back up, with respect and discipline built in.

Learn the Art of Judo

Bahala Na (Filipino Martial Arts)

Honor Tradition & Learn Practical Skills

Filipino stick fighting, arnis and kali. Weapon flow, footwork, and empty-hand defense from a real tradition. Rare in Spring, TX.

Explore Bahala Na Today

Mixed Martial Arts (13+)

Adult MMA student training at Ground Dwellers

Strengthen Your Mind & Body

MMA, ages 13+. Striking, grappling, and conditioning in one class. Learn to defend yourself standing and on the ground.

Push Your Limits with MMA

Find Your Fit

Not Sure Where to Start?

Tell us who you are training for and we will point you the right way.

For My Child

Ages 5–15

Confidence, focus, and real self-defense in a class built for kids. Start with Kids Martial Arts or Judo.

See Kids Classes

For Myself

Adults 16+

Get fit, learn to defend yourself, and train the real Machado system. Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, MMA, and Filipino martial arts.

See Adult Classes

For My Family

Train together

Parents and kids on the same mat. Book a free class and we will help you find the right fit for everyone.

Book a Free Class

What Our Members Say

Real reviews from real people on the mat.

5.0 from 87 Google reviews

The best all around place to train Brazilian jujitsu and grappling in Houston. Great training, good people to work with and a great facility. Eddie knows more about grappling than anyone I've ever met and I feel safe even having my kids train here.

Jonathan Colunga via Google

This is an awesome gym! My husband and I joined to get fit, learn something new, and have fun and we have certainly enjoyed our experience here. Everyone we have met is very welcoming and friendly. Whether you're new or experienced, this gym is a great place to start or continue your martial arts journey. Highly recommend

Ruby Barbosa via Google

Have trained at Ground Dwellers for years and never get tired of the community and vast knowledge! Does not matter what skill level or reason for wanting to train. Hobbyist, competition, or whatever. You can find what you need here and have fun doing it. The best gym and highly recommend

Caleb Scheffer via Google

Coach Eddie is a fantastic instructor. Very knowledgeable and gave me a lot of valuable advice including tips on how to train off the mat. I was only visiting but would definitely come back next time I'm in town.

Grace Cheng via Google

Awesome place. Made my pilgrimage to HQ. Had some great rolls with a variety of folks at all skill levels. Attended their open mat on a Saturday.

Joseph Gray II via Google

See all reviews on Google

Frequently Asked Questions about Martial Arts in Spring, TX

Before Your First Class

Do I need any experience to join?

Not at all! Our programs are designed to fit beginners and experienced martial artists alike. You’ll start at your own pace with guidance from our supportive instructors.

Am I too old to start martial arts?

Absolutely not. Martial arts is for everyone. Your age or fitness level does not matter. Adults of all ages do well in our programs, and you can too.

Are your classes safe?

Yes. Safety is our top priority. Our instructors are experts at creating a structured, supportive environment where students can learn without fear or risk.

What should I wear for my first class?

Wear comfortable workout clothes! If you decide to continue, we’ll give recommendations on what’s needed for your specific program, like uniforms for Jiu-Jitsu or Judo.

Can I try a class before signing up?

Absolutely. We offer a free introductory class so you can experience what training at Ground Dwellers Martial Arts Academy in Spring, TX is all about.

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Take the First Step

Your First Class Is Free

Try a Free Class

Come train. Bring workout clothes and water. If it is a fit, we will set you up with the right program and schedule.

No contracts. No sign-up fees. Just show up and see for yourself.