Pendergrass BJJ Academy

Pendergrass BJJ Academy

5358 reviews
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About Pendergrass BJJ Academy

Conveniently located in Raleigh, our martial arts classes are excellent choices for self-defense, discipline, and fitness for all ages & fitness levels.

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Reviews

5
358 reviews
Elaina Layell
2025-12-19

I absolutely LOVE PAMA! I signed my four year old daughter up around September and have been so impressed with her progress in the short time she has been enrolled! Sue is amazing and really made me feel comfortable enrolling her and really helped me understand the benefits of BJJ for my daughter. Professor Boo is one of the instructors and is so patient and great with the kids! My daughter absolutely loves him and his daughter coach Casey! I love how he makes the lessons age appropriate while still challenging the kids for growth. There are also two older kids that help with the kids classes often, one is very tall with curly hair and another younger with longer hair and they have been so sweet to my daughter and been great at helping aide professor Boo. The owners have definitely set the standard! They take it serious and it reflects in the business as a whole. They certainly have a strong BJJ reputation! I showed a coworker of mine that went to train Muay Thai in Thailand a video of my daughter and he exclaimed “OH SHE GOES TO PENDERGRASS?!!” And I said yes , he got excited and states “oh those Pendergrass brothers are top of the line! Best of the best!” So it makes me feel good to know that my daughter is being taught by the best of the best!

martha sanchez
2026-01-16

We started with this Academy back in November, I might say I am very impressed on how efficient their communication from start to finish has been, nothing has been left guess. I know what we need and by when we need it in a timely manner. (I hate having to hunt down for information) I have personally have had the pleasure of attending classes with professor Boo and one of the twins lol I can’t recall which is which but they are amazing and respectful. Being new to the state they sure know how to make anyone feel welcomed .

Jerry Scott
2025-12-29

I retired earlier this year and as an older adult, I wanted to do more than join a local gym. I found everything I was looking for at Pendergrass Academy of Martial Arts. Not only did Sue take great care to make sure I was well informed regarding the details of membership but I was able to meet one of the owners, Rob Pendergrass, on my first visit. If you are looking to be challenged, be part of a tight community, build your self-confidence and experience one of the best forms of fitness out there, this is the place! I've been training here for 9 months now and love it! This place is amazing.

Todd Pratt
2025-12-23

The folks at PAMA are the best. They love what they teach and it shows. Along wtih excellent instruction, the professors are always kind, ready to help you improve, and keeping an eye out for your safety. The facility is top notch. Plenty of mat space and reasonably sized classes. I was hesitant to start up a martial art again after 50 ... but after training here for a few months now my only regret is that I don't have more time to dedicate.

Jeremy Jackson
2025-12-19

We have nothing but great things to say about Pendergrass. The staff is always friendly, helpful and professional. The classes are always well structured and fun. They care deeply about the kids and adults that train here. Would highly recommend checking them out if you are thinking about starting to train.

Frequently Asked Questions

IS THERE A FREE TRIAL CLASS?

Absolutely. We invite all prospective students to try their first class free at PENDERGRASS BJJ ACADEMY. It's the best way to experience our training environment, meet our coaches, and see if BJJ is right for you. No experience or equipment needed — comfortable athletic clothing is fine.

DO I NEED ANY EXPERIENCE TO START?

No experience necessary! PENDERGRASS BJJ ACADEMY welcomes complete beginners. Our instructors break down every technique step by step, and our community is known for being welcoming and patient with new students. Everyone starts as a white belt, and that's exactly where you should start too.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY FIRST CLASS?

For your first visit, comfortable athletic clothing works perfectly — a t-shirt and shorts or athletic pants. Once you commit to training regularly, you'll want to invest in a gi (kimono). Our coaches can recommend quality options at a range of price points.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TRAIN?

Most students at PENDERGRASS BJJ ACADEMY train 2 to 3 times per week and see consistent progress. Showing up regularly matters far more than training intensely once in a while. We offer multiple class times throughout the week so you can find a schedule that fits your life.

DO YOU OFFER CLASSES FOR KIDS?

Yes! We offer dedicated programs for children and teens at PENDERGRASS BJJ ACADEMY. Our youth classes focus on discipline, respect, confidence-building, and the fundamentals of BJJ in a safe, fun environment.