Houston Gym Offered Self-Defense Classes for LGBTQ+ Residents

The non-profit organization provides specialized safety training to empower marginalized members of the community.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in LGBTQ+

Bold vector editorial illustration showing clean jiu-jitsu training mats on a floor, representing a safe and inclusive environment for self-defense training. — Third Ward Jiu Jitsu in Houston has launched a series of self-defense classes specifically tailored to provide safety training for the LGBTQ+ community. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should communities prioritize developing local self-defense training to address safety concerns?

Third Ward Jiu Jitsu has launched a series of self-defense classes in Houston tailored for LGBTQ+ individuals. The non-profit gym aims to provide marginalized community members with practical tools for protection and conflict de-escalation.

Why it matters

The founders established the gym because traditional training spaces were often unwelcoming to LGBTQ+ people. The classes address safety concerns amid a rise in hate incidents reported across Texas.

The gym operates as a non-profit and offers training designed for participants, including techniques to counter attackers significantly larger than themselves. The classes focus on maneuvers like bridging and twisting to regain space from a pinned position.

The players

Andrew Degar

He is a co-founder of the gym who brings 15 years of experience in combat sports to the instruction.

Sarah Degar

She co-founded the organization in 2019 to provide inclusive martial arts training to the community.

The details

Founded by Andrew and Sarah Degar, the gym provides a secure environment where participants learn to manage encounters involving size disparities, such as a 100-pound person facing a 250-pound attacker. The curriculum focuses on physical techniques to secure an attacker hands and effectively de-escalate threats.

Andrew and Sarah Degar founded the organization in 2019.
The gym officially opened its doors in January 2020.
The organization launched its community self-defense class series in 2023.
A self-defense class for the community was held on September 26, 2026.

Culture Shift

These classes reflect a growing trend of specialized, grassroots self-defense movements designed to support marginalized groups. This development mirrors findings from the Williams Institute regarding increased victimization risks for the community, illustrating a shift toward community-led safety solutions.

Residents can access these self-defense sessions twice a month to gain practical skills for personal protection. The training provides local community members with specific de-escalation techniques that are tailored to be accessible regardless of physical size.

The takeaway

Empowerment through physical training provides tangible benefits for those feeling vulnerable in their daily lives. Consistent practice of de-escalation and defense maneuvers can help individuals build confidence and improve their personal safety.