A family man running a family academy.

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. Professor 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

Professor Pittman trains under Carlos Machado — 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.