Business Details
Premier Martial Arts Training in Raleigh, NC
At Pendergrass Academy of Martial Arts, our mission is to empower families to build safe, healthy, and fit lifestyles through martial arts. Founded on the principles of respect, discipline, and community service, we have dedicated ourselves to providing high-quality instruction for over 15 years. Our expert instructors, including co-founders Rob and Guy Pendergrass4th-degree black belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsubring decades of combined experience to every class. We focus on fostering character development, physical fitness, and mental resilience, ensuring our students of all ages gain life skills that extend far beyond the dojo.Our commitment to continuous improvement drives us to refine our curriculum, facilities, and community outreach programs, creating an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive. Through leadership by example, we strive to make a lasting positive impact on our students, families, and the broader community.
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Teens Martial Arts
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Muay Thai
Summer Camp
Highlights and features
- We offer expert instruction from 4th-degree black belts with decades of combined experience.
- Our structured classes build discipline, focus, and self-confidence for all ages.
- We foster a welcoming, family-oriented environment that prioritizes safety and inclusivity.
- Our community-focused approach includes charitable initiatives like the George Pendergrass Foundation.
- Students gain practical self-defense skills while improving physical and mental resilience.
What people say
Amazing instructors
Supportive community
Life-changing programs
Great for all ages
Professional staff
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Our Kids Martial Arts program instills discipline, focus, and respect in a fun, supportive environment. Structured classes help young students develop physical coordination, social skills, and confidence through age-appropriate techniques. The curriculum emphasizes goal-setting, perseverance, and character development, preparing children for success in school and life while promoting active, healthy lifestyles.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes focus on practical self-defense and ground fighting techniques for all skill levels. Students build physical strength, agility, and mental resilience while learning leverage-based strategies to defend against larger opponents. The program cultivates a supportive community where members develop problem-solving skills, stress management, and a commitment to lifelong learning through collaborative drills and sparring.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai classes combine intense physical conditioning with effective striking techniques for fitness and self-defense. Participants enhance cardiovascular endurance, muscle tone, and combat confidence while mastering punches, kicks, and clinch work. The program emphasizes mental focus, competitiveness, and stress relief, offering a dynamic workout that challenges both body and mind in a safe, structured setting.
Summer Camp
Our martial arts summer camp provides active, educational experiences for children of all ages. Daily activities blend physical training with character-building lessons, fostering teamwork, creativity, and discipline. Campers engage in skill development, games, and themed challenges designed to improve coordination, confidence, and social interaction while staying engaged throughout the summer months.
Teens Martial Arts
Teens Martial Arts classes address adolescent challenges through structured training that promotes self-control, respect, and goal-setting. Students improve physical fitness, stress management, and decision-making skills while learning practical self-defense techniques. The program encourages positive peer interactions, builds leadership qualities, and helps teens develop the confidence to navigate personal and academic challenges successfully.
People
Rob Pendergrass
Co-Owner/Co-Head Instructor
With 35 years of martial arts experience, Rob co-founded Pendergrass Academy and holds a 4th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He contributes to industry publications and co-created the Kids BJJ Made Easy platform, serving as a respected leader in martial arts education.
Guy Pendergrass
Co-Owner/Co-Head Instructor
A 4th-degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Guy brings 35 years of expertise to Pendergrass Academy. He co-founded the George Pendergrass Foundation for blood cancer research and regularly shares insights at national martial arts conferences and industry events.
Boo Holbrook
Head Kids Instructor & Adult BJJ Instructor
Boo specializes in creating engaging experiences for youth while coaching adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. His patient instruction style and focus on core values help students develop technical skills alongside personal responsibility and teamwork abilities.
Sue Hughes
Program Director
Sue oversees curriculum development and ensures high-quality instruction standards across all programs. Her leadership focuses on maintaining the academy's family-friendly atmosphere while advancing student progress and instructor training initiatives.
Lucas Eudy
Kids & Adult BJJ Instructor
Lucas brings technical expertise and energy to both children's and adult classes. He emphasizes accessibility for beginners while guiding experienced students through advanced techniques, fostering an inclusive learning environment for all skill levels.
Questions
What martial arts programs do you offer for children?
We offer Kids Martial Arts and Teens Martial Arts programs designed to build discipline, confidence, and physical skills. Classes emphasize character development while making learning fun and engaging for young students.
How can martial arts benefit adults?
Adults gain practical self-defense training, improve physical fitness, and develop mental focus through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai. Our community fosters personal growth while providing stress relief and competitive opportunities.
Do you offer trial classes for new students?
Yes, we provide introductory offers and trial classes to help new students experience our programs before committing to membership.
What makes your academy different from others?
Our experienced instructors, community focus, and proven curriculum combine technical excellence with character development in a welcoming environment for the whole family.
Are your instructors certified and experienced?
Yes, our staff includes 4th-degree black belts with decades of experience. All instructors undergo rigorous training to ensure quality instruction and student safety.
How do you support student progression?
Through structured belt systems, personalized feedback, and goal-setting guidance, we help students track progress and achieve milestones at their own pace with support from instructors and peers.
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