Rio Jiu Jitsu Lifestyle, Gym

Rio Jiu Jitsu Lifestyle, Gym in Dallas is led by Professor Rafael Lang, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt who began his training in 1995. Professor Lang brings three decades of experience to the mats and has earned major competition accolades, including gold medals at the 2022 No-Gi Pans and 2021 IBJJF Master Worlds, as well as multiple Pan Ams podium finishes. His background also includes coaching the Australian Army and Dallas police, and he is supported by a roster of experienced instructors such as Stephen Hall (4th Degree Black Belt), Nick Reding (4th Degree Black Belt), and others. The academy honors the memory of Octavio Couto “Ratinho,” reflecting a sense of lineage and tradition. Classes at Rio JJ balance traditional gi instruction with no-gi offerings for both adults and children. Adult students can join all-levels gi classes led by Professor Lang, as well as no-gi sessions for all levels with Stephen Hall and fundamentals with Ted Gates. The kids’ program is divided by age, with no-gi classes for ages 3–6 and 7–12, taught by Drew Abbey and Rafael Lang respectively. The academy also offers open mat sessions for adults, and women’s classes are highlighted as a supportive space for developing both self-defense skills and confidence. Training takes place in a spacious, wheelchair-accessible facility on Mockingbird Lane. The schedule is structured to accommodate a range of experience levels and training goals, with drop-ins welcome in many classes. Wrestling and boxing instruction are also available, with dedicated coaches on staff. Rio JJ’s approach is rooted in discipline, respect, and a belief that jiu-jitsu shapes character both on and off the mats.

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