About
A family man running a family academy.
Master Klay Pittman isn't just an instructor — he's a dad. His two daughters train on these same mats, in the same classes, alongside your kids.
Master Pittman & his daughters — same mats, same classes
Built by a family, for families
When you walk through our doors, you'll see that this academy is built around family values because it's built by a family. That's not a marketing line — it's how we operate every single day. Master Pittman created this environment because he wanted a place where his own children could grow, learn, and be safe.
Every decision we make — from how we teach to who we hire — is guided by one question: "Would I want this for my own kids?"
30+ years in Lubbock
Master Klay Pittman began his martial arts journey at age seven. By 17, he had opened his own martial arts school in Lubbock, Texas — becoming one of the youngest martial arts professionals in the country. He went on to graduate from Coronado High School and Texas Tech University, where he later served as an adjunct professor for 17 years.
Today, Master Pittman teaches Pittman Jiu-Jitsu alongside his instructors and his wife. Together they share a passion for helping families grow stronger — on and off the mat.
The Carlos Machado lineage
Master Pittman trains under Carlos Machado — 8th Degree Coral Belt and one of the most respected names in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu worldwide. The Machado brothers trained directly with the legendary Gracie family, and their methodology has influenced martial artists across the globe.
This lineage matters because the techniques we teach aren't improvised. They've been refined over generations, tested under pressure, and adapted specifically for practical self-defense — not just sport competition.
It's a family tradition on both ends of the lineage — Machado teaches his family, and Pittman teaches his.
Ready to See It for Yourself?
Your child's first session is personalized, welcoming, and completely free. No commitment.
Book Your Free Intro Session