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Eric Allain
via Google

I absolutely love the BJJ classes here. The instruction is excellent, the staff is friendly, helpful and well organized and the facilities are great. All this comes together to create an environment where the students help each other learn and improve. It is this that really does it for me. PAMA is not just a place to train, it is a community of friends. BJJ is hard. It can be demoralizing. Having helpful, encouraging friends to train with is what keeps me coming back. It is this that will push me to finally get that black belt some day.

Julia Benson
via Google

I love coming here. I have improved my Muay Thai technique. A lot of experienced students in the class make sparring fun. Beyond all of this PAMA is a community.

Sean Kavanagh
via Google

Great place to train and has the largest media presence I've ever experienced in any of the BJJ gyms I've trained at. That is a good thing because it lets you know what you are signing up for and makes the gym culture available to see online. And it is a great culture which is very friendly and welcoming of new students and has a desire to see people continuously improve whether it is BJJ or Muay Thai.

Blair Cuneo
via Google

Excellent Women’s Self Defense class! Walked away with several very good techniques.

Mitch Ludwig
via Google

I recently moved to the area and dropped by to check out the bjj classes. I've been training bjj for the better part of a decade and can say without a doubt that this has been one of the most welcoming gyms I've ever experienced. Great instruction with a good mix of belt levels that gives everyone an opportunity to learn.

Dylan Olson
via Google

I like to get to know a school for a while before giving a review. That said, I've been training in PAMA's BJJ program for about a year now. I came to this school as a 2 stripe blue belt and have had training from several different places over the years. I can say honestly that the Pendergrass brothers have succeeded at creating and continuously cultivating an amazing environment for learning. You feel like family as soon as you walk in the door. And regardless of whether you've never trained before or have been training for decades, there is something here to learn and grow in for everyone. The instructors are patient, love what they do and can break down concepts in ways anyone can understand. The culture here at PAMA is consistently positive and inclusive. Classes are organized well and more experienced students (upper belts) are always willing to help those looking for guidance. If you're looking for a place to train, just stop by PAMA and see for yourself.

Chris George
via Google

The professionalism of the staff is unmatched. All of the instructors are great with kids. Both of my kids love being here.

James Willison
via Google

This is a great to train both mind and body in the art of BJJ. The main instructors, Guy and Rob, are knowledge and care about their students. I was particularly impressed that they (and other instructors) already knew my name despite not having formally introduced myself to them. That’s a little thing, but it meant they want to know who is coming to their facility. As well, the other students, particularly the upper belts, are great training partners. In my experience, they know when to go hard and also when to help a beginner out. PAMA is an excellent place to train and to be a part of a community looking to improve themselves on and off the mats.

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Pendergrass Academy of Martial Arts Raleigh & Wake Forest Martial Arts
919-819-1908
Pendergrass Academy of Martial Arts

What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Why You Should Try It

July 25, 2025

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that focuses on ground fighting and submission techniques. BJJ is known for the use of leverage and technique, rather than brute strength, which makes it accessible to people of all sizes and fitness levels. Whether you’re looking for a way to get fit, learn self-defense, or join a supportive community, BJJ offers countless benefits. Here are three key reasons why you should try Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu:

1. Effective Self-Defense

BJJ is one of the most effective martial arts for real-world self-defense, especially when it comes to defending against larger or stronger opponents. The techniques you learn in BJJ are designed to neutralize threats without relying on raw strength. By focusing on submissions, joint locks, and escapes, BJJ equips you with practical skills to protect yourself if the need arises. For instance, imagine being grabbed or taken to the ground by someone larger than you. In BJJ, you’ll learn how to use leverage and technique to control or escape, even when you’re outmatched.

2. Improved Physical Fitness

BJJ is a full-body workout that improves strength, endurance, flexibility, and coordination. The constant movement and dynamic positions help build muscle tone and cardiovascular fitness while also enhancing flexibility. Plus, the physical activity in BJJ is fun, making it easier to stay committed to your fitness goals. For example, whether you are using drilling techniques or rolling, you’ll be working your core, legs, arms, and back in ways that help improve your overall fitness. You’ll feel stronger, healthier, and more energized.

3. Mental Toughness and Stress Relief

BJJ challenges your mind as well as your body. The art requires you to think strategically, solve problems, and stay calm under pressure. With each class, you’ll learn how to handle stressful situations, build resilience, and improve your focus—skills that translate to real-life situations. Consider rolling in BJJ is like a mental puzzle, where you’re constantly adapting, reacting, and thinking two or three moves ahead. Over time, you’ll develop mental clarity and the ability to stay calm and composed, both on the mats and in everyday life.

4. Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem

As you progress through BJJ, you’ll develop a strong sense of accomplishment and self-worth. Achieving milestones such as mastering a new technique or earning a new belt promotes personal growth and confidence. In BJJ, the challenge isn’t just physical—it’s about overcoming mental barriers, which leads to a significant boost in self-esteem.

Specifically, when you first start training, some techniques may seem impossible. But as you persist, you’ll gain mastery and confidence, not only in BJJ but in how you approach challenges in life, feeling more capable in both physical and personal situations.

5. A Supportive, Inclusive Community

One of the greatest aspects of BJJ is the community it fosters. Training in BJJ involves joining a supportive group of individuals who encourage and motivate one another to improve. Whether you’re training with beginners or advanced practitioners, the sense of camaraderie and mutual respect makes it easy to learn and grow together. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is very social compared to some solo sports. You’ll train alongside people of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. The support from your teammates will help you stay motivated, even when you’re facing challenges or frustrations on your journey. It’s more than just a workout—it’s a community that helps you thrive.

These additional benefits demonstrate how BJJ promotes physical and mental growth while fostering a supportive environment for personal improvement, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking self-growth.

In conclusion, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art; it’s a path to improved physical health, mental resilience, and practical self-defense skills. Whether you’re looking to get fit, learn valuable life skills, or join a community of like-minded individuals, BJJ offers something for everyone. Give it a try—you may find yourself stronger, more confident, and ready for any challenge life throws your way!

Ready to start your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey or take your skills to the next level? Join us at Pendergrass Academy of Martial Arts, where we provide expert instruction in a supportive and engaging environment. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your techniques, we’re here to help you succeed. Visit www.bjjnc.com today to learn more and get started!

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