Fulshear Parents Are Saying This Program Transformed Their Kids’ Confidence
When 8-year-old Lily started Jiu Jitsu, her mom just hoped she’d burn off some energy. What she didn’t expect was a total transformation.
Within weeks, Lily went from hiding behind her mom’s leg to running onto the mat with a grin, high-fiving her teammates, and cheering them on.
“She used to be so shy,” says her mom, Amanda. “Now she’s the one helping new kids feel welcome. The confidence she’s gained is unbelievable.”
Stories like Lily’s are happening every week at Liberatus Jiu Jitsu, a family-owned academy in Fulshear that’s helping kids build confidence, focus, and courage—one class at a time.
What Parents Are Seeing at Home and School
Parents say the benefits go far beyond the mats.
“My son is listening better at home, showing more respect, and he’s not as easily frustrated,” says local dad Chris. “His teachers even asked what we changed at home — the only thing we did differently was sign him up for Jiu Jitsu.”
According to Professor Johnny Naranjo, who owns Liberatus Jiu Jitsu with his wife, Michelle, that kind of growth is no accident.
“Jiu Jitsu is built around problem-solving,” Johnny explains. “Kids learn to stay calm when things don’t go their way. When they finally figure it out, that feeling of ‘I did it!’ builds real, lasting confidence.”
Why Confidence Comes Naturally Through Training Jiu Jitsu
Unlike many team sports, Jiu Jitsu doesn’t rely on size, speed, or popularity. Every child progresses at their own pace, learning through consistent effort and encouragement.
“We teach kids how to lose well,” says Johnny. “That’s where growth happens — not in winning, but in learning to try again. Winning feels great, and it's easy to keep going when you win, but the thing with jiu jitsu is that most kids aren't good at it when they first start. They have to go through that phase where everything about it is challenging, and when a kid can stick with it, and learn that doing something hard can be rewarding and that losing isn't going to break them, they gain a mental-toughness you just wont find anywhere else.”
Parents say this approach has made a noticeable difference in their children’s resilience.
“My daughter used to give up so easily,” shares one parent. “Now she says things like, ‘I’ll get it next time.' It's a complete 180 for her! That mindset shift has carried into schoolwork and everything else she does.”
A Family-Centered Gym With a Purpose
Liberatus Jiu Jitsu, located right in the heart of Fulshear, was founded on one simple belief: that Jiu Jitsu can be life-changing for anyone who does it.
With two of their own daughters partaking in classes, the Naranjos opened their doors with a mission to create a supportive environment where kids feel safe to learn, make friends, and grow in confidence.
“Every class is structured, but it’s also fun,” says Michelle. “We keep our student-to-coach ratio low, so every child gets the attention they need to succeed. Watching kids go from shy and timid to strong and confident is why we do this. I'll never get tired of seeing kids grow through our program!"
The Results Speak for Themselves
Over the past few years, Liberatus Jiu Jitsu has become the highest-rated martial arts academy in the Fulshear area, thanks to the visible transformations parents have seen in their kids.
Families consistently praise the supportive environment, small class sizes, and caring coaches who treat every student like their own.
"Liberatus has been a great place for our son." Says Ashley, one of the many Fulshear moms who has left a 5-star review for Liberatus. "He started in kindergarten and has developed so much self-confidence since. He’s cultivated self-defense skills that will continue to benefit him as he grows older, while learning them in a way that feels safe and age-appropriate to the age/stage he’s at."
For parents looking for more than just another after-school activity, Liberatus Jiu Jitsu offers something rare — a place where kids grow in confidence, focus, and respect.
As the highest-rated martial arts academy in the Fulshear area, Liberatus Jiu Jitsu has earned the trust of hundreds of local families — not just for the skills kids learn, but for the confidence and character they build along the way.
“It’s not just about creating champions on the mat,” says Professor Johnny Naranjo. “It’s about helping kids become confident, kind, and capable in life.”
Parents interested in giving their child that same opportunity can visit LiberatusJiuJitsu.com to learn more or schedule a free introductory class.