Business Details
27 Years
experience
Empowering Families Through Martial Arts in Waterford, CT
Gabrieles Martial Arts has been a family-owned and operated martial arts training center since 1999. Our school was founded by Salvatore and Olinda Gabriele, Italian immigrants who transformed their passion for martial arts into a thriving community hub in Waterford, Connecticut. We specialize in Karate and Gracie JuJutsu, offering programs for children, adults, and families that emphasize discipline, self-defense, and character development. Our instructors bring decades of competitive experience and teaching expertise, including world championship credentials in both Karate and JuJutsu. We maintain a state-of-the-art facility that supports personalized training while preserving traditional martial arts values.Our curriculum integrates modern teaching methods with time-tested techniques to ensure effective skill development for all ages and abilities. We take pride in creating a welcoming environment where students build confidence, physical fitness, and lifelong skills. Our family legacy continues through Jason Gabriele, who now leads our Gracie JuJutsu program as a black belt under Master Royler Gracie. We measure success through the personal growth of our students and the strength of our community relationships. With over 25 years of operation, we remain committed to evolving our programs while maintaining the core principles that have guided us since our founding.
Services
Youth Karate
Gracie JuJutsu
Family Training
Private Sessions
Anti-Bullying Programs
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1999 with three generations of martial arts expertise
- Only Connecticut school offering Gracie JuJutsu under Master Royler Gracie
- Instructors hold 7th degree black belts and world championship credentials
- Proven track record transforming over 100 students annually since 1996
- Customized programs for all ages from 3-year-olds to adult self-defense
What people say
Huge boost in confidence
World class instruction
Welcoming atmosphere
Positive impact on life
Excellent instructors
Services
Youth Karate
Our Youth Karate program develops discipline and self-confidence in children aged 3-17 through structured martial arts training. Students learn traditional Karate techniques while building physical fitness, focus, and character. The curriculum emphasizes anti-bullying strategies and life skills that extend beyond the dojo.
Gracie JuJutsu
Gracie JuJutsu instruction focuses on practical self-defense techniques proven effective in real-world situations. As Connecticut's only official Gracie Humaita affiliate, we teach Master Royler Gracie's system emphasizing leverage over strength for all body types. Our program combines physical conditioning with strategic thinking.
Family Training
Family Training sessions create bonding opportunities through shared martial arts practice for parents and children. This program builds teamwork skills while teaching practical self-defense techniques to multiple generations. Classes accommodate varying skill levels to ensure all family members benefit equally.
Private Sessions
Private martial arts lessons offer personalized instruction tailored to individual goals and learning styles. These sessions accelerate skill development through focused attention from expert instructors. Ideal for addressing specific fitness objectives or preparing for competitions and belt promotions.
Anti-Bullying Programs
Our anti-bullying initiatives teach children effective conflict resolution and self-defense techniques in age-appropriate formats. The curriculum builds confidence and assertiveness while emphasizing de-escalation strategies. Proven methods help students develop social resilience and positive peer relationships.
People
Olinda Gabriele
Co-Founder & Chief Instructor
7th degree black belt in Shrin-ry Karate with 25+ years of competition experience. Holds a purple belt in Gracie JuJutsu and world titles in martial arts competitions. Certified personal trainer and published children's book author.
Jason Gabriele
Gracie JuJutsu Instructor
7th degree Karate black belt and Gracie JuJutsu black belt under Master Royler Gracie. 20-year competition veteran with national titles in sport karate. Leads Connecticut's only official Gracie Humaita program.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer traditional Karate and Gracie JuJutsu programs. Our Karate curriculum follows Shrin-ry discipline while our JuJutsu instruction is officially certified under Master Royler Gracie.
Are classes available for different age groups?
Yes, we provide age-specific programs for children starting at age 3, teens, adults, and family training sessions that accommodate multiple generations.
Do you offer trial classes for beginners?
We provide free orientation sessions to experience our training environment. Private trial lessons are also available for personalized introductions to our martial arts programs.
What are your instructors' qualifications?
Our lead instructors hold 7th degree black belts, world competition titles, and direct certification from martial arts masters. All staff maintain current certifications in their respective disciplines.
Can martial arts help with children's confidence?
Yes, our youth programs specifically address confidence building through structured achievement milestones. Testimonials show measurable improvements in self-esteem and social skills.
Do you have flexible class schedules?
We offer morning, afternoon, and evening classes seven days a week. Family training sessions and private lessons provide additional scheduling flexibility for busy households.
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