The Pit Martial Arts & Fitness
About
The Pit Martial Arts & Fitness in Arroyo Grande, California is a well-established martial arts gym that has been serving the community since 2001. Founded by John Hackleman, the gym offers a variety of programs including Hawaiian Kempo, Jiu Jitsu, and CrossPit (high-intensity martial arts-based training) for adults, as well as specialized programs for children. The Pit emphasizes not just physical training but also mental conditioning, discipline, and family values, creating a supportive community that many members describe as their 'ohana' (family).
Jiu Jitsu VerifiedOur weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.
We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.
Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.
InstructorsClass StructureSafety and HygieneFacility QualityValue for MoneyLocation & AccessibilityPublic Review Sentiment
Instructors
The instructors at The Pit are frequently praised for their knowledge, skill, and supportive teaching style. Led by founder John Hackleman, who has 50 years of Karate/Kickboxing experience, the team is described as encouraging, professional, and particularly good with children.
Facility
The Pit is consistently described as clean and well-maintained by reviewers. Starting as a 500 sq ft gym in the founder's backyard, it has grown into a full-service facility that accommodates various martial arts disciplines and fitness programs.
Pricing
While specific pricing details aren't readily available on the website, most reviewers find the value to be excellent given the quality of instruction and variety of programs. One reviewer mentioned that the gym offers 'great prices,' though another had difficulty obtaining pricing information over the phone.
Facility
Gym
Instructors
Classes
Pricing
The Pit offers free trial classes that allow potential members to experience their training environment before committing. Several reviewers mentioned starting with a trial class and feeling welcomed by both staff and other members.
Location
Opening Hours
| Monday | 6 - 6:45AM, 9 - 10AM, 4 - 8:15PM |
| Tuesday | 10 - 11AM, 4 - 8:15PM |
| Wednesday | 6 - 6:45AM, 9 - 10AM, 4 - 8:15PM |
| Thursday (Today) | 10 - 11AM, 4 - 8:15PM |
| Friday | 6 - 6:45AM, 9 - 10AM, 6:15 - 7:15PM |
| Saturday | 10 - 11AM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Location
Located in Arroyo Grande, California, The Pit has been a fixture in the community since 2001 and is described by many as a pillar of the local area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age groups does The Pit cater to?
The Pit offers programs for all ages, including PeeWee classes for children as young as 3, kids programs for ages 4-13, and adult programs for ages 14 and up.
What types of martial arts are taught at The Pit?
The Pit teaches Hawaiian Kempo, Jiu Jitsu, and offers CrossPit (martial arts-based high-intensity physical training). They also have grappling classes for kids.
Is The Pit suitable for beginners with no martial arts experience?
Yes, The Pit welcomes beginners of all ages. Many reviewers mention starting with no prior experience and feeling supported by the instructors and community.
Does The Pit offer women-specific classes?
Yes, The Pit offers women's bootcamp classes that focus on fitness and self-defense, which have received positive reviews from female members.