Martial Arts. Fitness. Family.

We have trained some of the best fighters in the world, but we have also trained everyone else, and plan to keep doing so.

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ABOUT PIT.FIT

ABOUT US

Pit.Fit began as S.L.O Kickboxing in 1998 when it was opened in University Square of San Luis Obispo by Chuck “the Iceman” Liddell and Scott Adams. Adams and Liddell were teammates on the California Polytechnic University wrestling team and after graduating, wanted to not only continue training, but also to share their knowledge with San Luis Obispo natives and college students.

Both brought impressive wrestling abilities, but Liddell’s extensive striking background combined with Adam’s experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu made for a complete curriculum. Liddell and Adams would both compete in the UFC, but would shortly go in different directions. Liddell would become the UFC Light heavyweight champion and Adams would found World Extreme Cagefighting (which would eventually be absorbed by the UFC).

Since then Pit.Fit has been home to UFC fighters, teens looking to build confidence, World Champion Kickboxers, health conscience college students, world class grapplers and many children looking for mentors, guidance and someone to just look out for them.

We have trained some of the best fighters in the world, but we have also trained everyone else, and plan to keep doing so.

HISTORY

THE PIT was started in 1985 in Woodland Hills, Ca. John Hackleman started The Pit because he wanted people to learn a no nonsense martial arts and conditioning program. All he asked was for students to give Kempo and The Pit the respect and loyalty it gave them. Confidence, loyalty, and humility are what he expected from all Pit Monsters.

John now operates THE PIT out of Arroyo Grande, Ca. He stresses mental and physical conditioning, power and discipline. His classes are upbeat and fun, yet very tough. He combines his 25 years of Karate/Kickboxing experience to teach a blend of simple, yet effective fighting and training techniques.

John's philosophy is simple: Use what works, discard what doesn't. The only way to get into top shape (cardio and strength) is by training very intensely, and leaving your comfort zone often. The only way to improve is through an open mind and countless repetitions. Because of this, THE PIT has evolved into one of the world's most famous and respected marital arts gyms.

PIT.FIT CLASSES

Whether your goal is to lose weight, get healthy, build muscle, cross-train, or prepare for a competitive athletic event, our fitness kickboxing is a total body training program that incorporates cardio, plyometrics, and strength and conditioning. This class is made to help you reach top physical shape while learning proper kickboxing technique in a fun and diverse environment.

Pit.Fit martial arts is all about making young men and women safe, confident and healthy. The world renowned PIT Hawaiian Kempo system incorporates striking, grappling, strength and fitness training to make the most well-rounded martial artist possible. We train our students to never be bullies and never be bullied.

Taught by instructors with extensive Yoga and Kickboxing backgrounds, the FlexFit Yoga class is helpful, healing, challenging and fun. This class will be used to relieve muscle tension and soreness from boxing. During this 30 minute class the large muscle groups will stretch, release, and begin to heal.

Pit.Fit grappling is home to All-American wrestlers, UFC fighters and top ranked Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors. Our focus is on getting our grapplers to improve their take-downs and top position. Most practices last 60-minutes and have a heavy emphasis on live wrestling. All wrestlers attend the same class to ensure that newer athletes always have high-level athletes around them to model correct techniques.

PIT.FIT INSTRUCTORS

Antonio Banuelos

Head Instructor

Antonio is a former UFC fighter, former Division I wrestler, holds a black belt in Hawaiian Kempo and has been a part of the MMA scene for 15 years. Antonio brings a very energetic and positive influence to his gym and his classes.

Justin Fraser

Head Grappling Instructor

Fraser is an All-American wrestler and has been the head of the grappling program for 15 years. He has helped numerous collegiate wrestling programs and has trained All-American 6 year olds, UFC champions and EVERYONE in between.

Eric Schwartz

Kickboxing Instructor

One of Chuck Liddell’s training partners from California Polytechnic University’s wrestling team and a former MMA fighter, Schwartz is a Hawaiian Kempo black belt and an expert boxer. No instructor at Pit.Fit hits harder or moves better than Schwartz.

Brandon “Cuesta” Drucker

Kids Coach

Drucker has been a part of Pit.Fit for 9 years. With a black belt in Wado-Ryu Karate and an extensive collegiate wrestling career, Drucker is a valued member of the Pit.Fit team. Drucker was undefeated in amateur mma fighting, but in the last few years his focus has shifted to coaching young men and women in the community.

Patrick Williamson

Assistant Kids Coach

Patrick is a California Polytechnic University graduate, with B.A. in kineseology. Patrick has studied martial arts for many years and also has a background in collegiate wrestling. He is calm, easy to be around and provides a less frantic view of martial arts.