The Pit Martial Arts & Fitness

The Pit Martial Arts & Fitness offers PeeWee’s, a martial arts activity for ages 4-5, and Hawaiian Kempo for ages 6-13. It also lists Jiu Jitsu for ages 14+, CrossPit for ages 13+, and Grappling for ages 3-13.

Programs

• PeeWee’s — 4-5 · Supportive, educational, and fun martial arts activity.
• Hawaiian Kempo — 6-13 · Kids program focused on confidence, discipline, and self-defense.
• Hawaiian Kempo — 18+ · Adult martial arts classes.
• Jiu Jitsu — 14+ · Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program for teens and adults.
• CrossPit — 13+ · Training that fuses The Pit and CrossFit together.
• Grappling — 3-13 · Listed as part of the kids programs on the About page.

At a glance

• Ages: 3–18 years old
• Facility hours: Mon 4:00 PM-8:15 PM; Tue 4:15 PM-8:15 PM; Wed 4:00 PM-8:15 PM; Thu 4:15 PM-8:15 PM; Fri 5:30 PM-6:30 PM; Sat 10:00 AM-11:00 AM; Sun CLOSED

About the provider

The Pit Martial Arts & Fitness was started in 1985 in Woodland Hills, CA, moved to Arroyo Grande in 1990, and opened to the public in 2001. John Hackleman is the owner, and he has 50 years of Karate/Kickboxing experience. The Pit says it serves Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, Oceano, Shell Beach, Nipomo, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Maria.

Kids programs are described as upbeat and fun, yet very tough. The site says classes are safe and that students can opt out of text messages by replying STOP.

What families say

“I have actually been a member of The Pit and would highly recommend them to train kids and adults. It has always been a safe place for kids to go and train and learn about character, self defense, and build confidence.” — Julie Wobrock

“We went for the one week trial and my kids are hooked! My 4yo is so shy and the trainers got her out of her shell with such kindness and ease and my 7yo tells me everyday “let’s go to fighting class”. Great values, great people. I am truly excited to be a part of the pit family.” — Erica Hope

“The Pit Martial Arts & Fitness is a wonderful local business which was established in 1985. Many youth and adults have benefited by training here.” — Kathryn J. Stiles

Last updated October 14, 2026.