Business Details
21 Years
experience
Welcome to Relson Gracie | Honolulu's Premier BJJ Academy
At Relson Gracie, we have cultivated a welcoming and secure environment dedicated to delivering top-tier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense instruction in Honolulu, Hawaii. Since our founding in January 2005 by Master Relson Gracie 6th Degree Black Belt Kaleo Auwae, we have prioritized self-defense as our core focus while embracing all levels of practitionersfrom beginners to seasoned athletes. Our community extends beyond the mat, fostering a close-knit family of students, parents, and families united by a passion for the art. With two locations in Honolulu, we offer flexible day and evening classes to accommodate busy schedules.Our instructors, including Kaleo Auwaea champion and NAGA titleholderbring decades of experience, having trained under Grandmaster Relson Gracie since 1994. We emphasize not only physical fitness and technical proficiency but also character development, instilling values like discipline, respect, and confidence in both children and adults. Our legacy of producing champions across all ranks and weight classes underscores our commitment to excellence. Whether you seek personal growth, fitness, or competitive training, we invite you to experience our academy through a complimentary trial class.
Services
Adult BJJ
Kids BJJ
Gi Classes
No Gi Classes
Open Mat
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We offer expert instruction from a 6th-degree black belt with decades of experience under Grandmaster Relson Gracie.
- Our curriculum prioritizes practical self-defense techniques applicable to real-world scenarios.
- We foster a family-friendly environment where students of all ages and skill levels thrive.
- Flexible class schedules accommodate busy professionals, students, and families.
- Proven track record of producing champions in kids and adult divisions since 2005.
What people say
Awesome experience
Super welcoming
Great atmosphere
Amazing instructor
Positive alternative
Services
Adult BJJ
Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes combine self-defense, sport techniques, and fitness training for all skill levels. Students learn stress management, real-world altercations, and competitive strategies through structured drills, instruction, and sparring. Our program emphasizes technical precision, physical conditioning, and mental resilience, preparing practitioners for both competition and personal growth.
Kids BJJ
Kids' Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes teach self-defense awareness, discipline, and confidence to children aged 5-15. Through age-appropriate drills, games, and instruction, students develop focus, respect, and physical coordination. The curriculum balances fun and challenge while fostering social skills and self-esteem, with instructors emphasizing safety and positive reinforcement.
Gi Classes
Gi classes focus on traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques using the standard uniform (gi top, pants, and belt). Students learn grip-based submissions, positional control, and strategic leverage. The gi slows pacing, allowing deeper technical exploration while building discipline and respect for the art's heritage through structured practice and partner drills.
No Gi Classes
No Gi classes simulate real-life altercations using casual clothing like rash guards and shorts. Techniques emphasize modified grips, body control, and transitions suited for slippery opponents. This fast-paced training improves reflexes, adaptability, and practical self-defense skills while maintaining a focus on technical proficiency and safe practice.
Open Mat
Open Mat sessions provide dedicated time for students to refine techniques, address weaknesses, and collaborate with peers. These unstructured practice periods encourage personalized growth through free sparring, targeted drills, and instructor feedback, fostering camaraderie and continuous improvement in a supportive environment.
People
Kaleo Auwae
Founder / Head Instructor
Kaleo Auwae, a 6th-degree black belt under Grandmaster Relson Gracie, has trained in Hawaii since 1994. A NAGA champion and proven coach, he founded Relson Gracie in 2005 to share his expertise in self-defense and competitive BJJ while mentoring students of all ages.
Questions
Does Team Papakolea Jiu-Jitsu offer a free trial class?
Yes, we provide a complimentary no-obligation trial class for first-time students to experience our academy.
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art focusing on grappling, ground fighting, and self-defense techniques. It emphasizes leverage and technique over strength, making it accessible to all body types.
What benefits does BJJ offer for children?
Kids' BJJ improves focus, discipline, confidence, and physical coordination. Students learn respect, self-control, and practical self-defense skills in a structured, supportive environment.
What are the class schedules?
We offer adult and kids' classes six days a week at two Honolulu locations, with flexible morning, afternoon, and evening sessions to fit busy schedules.
What should I wear to my first BJJ class?
For Gi classes, wear a t-shirt and shorts under your gi. For No Gi, bring a rash guard and board shorts. We recommend bringing water and a towel to all sessions.
Reviews (4)
ItsMikeLe
Jan 17, 2020
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If youre reading this and thinking of starting jiu jitsu with this academy then youve made the right choice. Ive been thinking of adding BJJ to my life for a long time now and only two weeks ago I gave this place a shot. Let me tell you this was by far one of the best decisions Ive made in years! From the convenience of location, the cleanliness and the true ohana spirit when training are a few things that make this spot a 5 Star rating.
Classes are available for kids and adults, perfect for everyone in the family. Doesnt matter if youre looking to learn self-defense, get in
Classes are available for kids and adults, perfect for everyone in the family. Doesnt matter if youre looking to learn self-defense, get in
Marlyn Aguilar
Nov 21, 2019
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Had an awesome experience trying BJJ for the first time at TPJJ. Kaleo was very welcoming and helpful. He exemplifies the aloha spirit! Sun was a great instructor. He was very patient and took the time to explain the moves and how they would work in real-life situations. Definitely recommend if you want to try BJJ without feeling intimidated!
Ravilan Gabriel
Aug 31, 2017
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I was referred to Team Papakolea by good friends n coworkers. I was looking to improve my fitness! Looking for something fun to do while getting my workout done! I was so impressed by how Professor Kaleo Auwave knowledge and skill on the art of jiu-jitsu. Not only that! They welcome me and immediately made me feel comfortable. Every class session, you get to learn new things with the help of your team mates! Don't look no further! If your interested in martial arts, jiu-jitsu or mma this is place to go or even if you just looking to improve yourself physically and mentally!
Heh
Jul 20, 2017
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It is hard for me to really encapsulate how this school has helped me in my life. However, I must say that this practice and its people have changed my life. I am much more fit and aware of my body because of the functional exercises I have learned. I have also developed a real confidence and ability in addressing aggressive individuals with an effective plan to keep me safe. With these, I have fostered discipline, fortitude in difficult situations and a genuine camaraderie with my teammates. I treat my training as a spiritual practice. I feel once you see how it affects your life there is no going
