What our members say
Reviews
From members, clients & community groups
The Pit has a great atmosphere where I can exercise & socialize with like-minded people. As well as improving my strength and fitness. I have learnt a lot from all the friendly, knowledgeable Instructors who explain the ‘why’ as well as the ‘how’ of exercise. They also encourage and advise on other things to keep us healthy & moving. Thank you.
Pat R Pat has been training with us for 5 years December 2023
Joe has been training with us for 3 months.
Training @ the PIT has been a lot of fun as well as very interesting with many self defence concepts and a deep understanding of the roots and application of the arts.
Joe L December 2023
Bay is a primary aged Student who has been training with us for nearly 3 years.
The best part of martial arts has been doing the gradings because then I can start learning more new things.
Bay R December 2023
Kirstin has been training with the PIT Crew since 2016.
I started at Warragamba, close to home doing Tai Chi with Mrs Nicole Winters, loved it from the start. The fact is, that it is a whole body and mind wellness journey which will carry on for me into the future with the skills I have learnt. Combined with doing the Flexicore class at the PIT on a Tuesday for the last 2 years has been a fabulous overall learning curve. I continue to learn each training session, which is fantastic. Thanks to the team at the PIT!
Kirstin I December 2023
Isaac is now a high school student, who has been training with us for 4 and half years.
The highlight of my journey so far with the PIT, have been gradings that gave me a feeling of accomplishment. Plus, the tournament, which pushed me out of my comfort zone and has given me more confidence!
Isaac S December 2023
Both my boys have been attending The Pit Martial Arts for the last 18 months, and it's been a transformative experience for the both of them. Not only have they learned martial arts techniques and essential self-defense skills, but they've also gained invaluable life lessons that will undoubtedly serve them well throughout their lives. The instructors are dedicated and truly care about the development of each student. Highly recommend to any parent seeking a holistic approach to martial arts training!
Tara September 2023
This text came from an old student who has moved away:
Master Nick:
" I just wanted to send you a friendly text from an old student and friend to tell you how grateful I am for all you taught me.
I now have 3 kids and I am trying to get my older ywo kids in to martial arts. We have tried a range of styles and I am yet to find a class/organization or sensei that offers the core values of respect that you taug ht us.
Things such as:
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walking backwards - not turning your back on higher grades
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not walking through the middle of a conversation
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bowing before entering the dojo etc.
These things are completely out the window with many organizations.
I still carry many of those traditional lessons with me to this day and thank you immensely for those deep messages and attributes I still practice today. All the best, although I have moved on, I still regard you as one of my greatest life teachers!
Big hug to the wonderful Ell too, totally would not have been the experience without her guidance...Stay well!
regards
Jess February 23
Can recommend this for all walks of life- young and not so young...
Committed instructors with high values, that want to impart genuine knowledge and skills to all who are open to learn, and at all levels. Quote from one great leader that wants "You to be the best you that you can be."
Great community for all, very appreciative what the PIT has to offer! Andrew April 2022
Thank you for your amazing communication during this time. Kylie June 2021
Thank you for your continued commitment, it’s greatly appreciated. Emma June 2021
Thank you for all that information, you’s are amazing for getting that all organised. Great to be keeping some sort of normality through the lock down. With the most appreciation
Breá June 2021
It was a wonderful night. Thank you to you and the team for all your dedication and encouragement of the students... I asked my son how he felt while walking out and he said "Mum, I feel AWESOME". Such a privilege to watch.
Nat June 2021
Thankyou for all that you do to support the development of these students in your care. They achieve and learn so much more than people realise when they go through this experience.
Rebecca June 2021
Was a special night felt so proud of all the hard work put into the weekly lessons to see it all unfold was amazing. Linda
June 2021
Thank you to all the teachers and black belts. I’m always amazed at the skill and knowledge you teach our children. Kristy
June 21
Great place to train with experienced instructors who has your best interests in mind. Awesome atmosphere for the whole family. been training here for 10years and wouldn't train anywhere else.
Adam January 2021
The Pit has been a positive life changing experience for our son. The professional teachings, sincere caring and support for their students is just amazing. They genuinely want to see their students succeed and constantly go over and above to encourage, mentor and teach with passion proficient martial arts skills, respect, discipline, morals and values, self-esteem and teamwork. They inspire and challenge, encouraging growth and personal development. They nurture and develop healthy strong bodies and minds, creating confident, caring, resilient students preparing them for life’s challenges, showing them, they can succeed with hard work and a positive never give up attitude. We highly recommend The Pit, having experienced the irreplaceable influence these inspirational and dedicated mentors, instructors, teachers have had on our son’s short life. His accomplishments, personal growth and development over the last 7 years from being a member of this wonderful community is incredible.
Krisy December 2020
An amazing journey .... A must experience for anybody looking to exceed ones potential in all aspects of their life.
A.F. December 2020
We love and respect the multi-approach to both martial arts, respect and discipline and most importantly life teachings about the real world outside those doors.
We truly commend you and your establishment and are proud to be associated with you.
Kind regards
Geoff J December 2020
I would highly recommend the PIT Martial Arts. They enable individuals to develop both physically and mentally. The teaching is an out of this world standard and I’m looking forward to training for many more years to come. You won’t find a better place to train in both the physical and mental capacity.
K.R. December 2020
they have been around for years I trained with them when I was 12-18 years old and now my kids are training with them , there are amazing.
Belinda December 2020
Amazing organisation, who are dedicated in their field to make every student grow. Not only physically but socially, mentally and emotionally. The support given to each child, not matter what their level and ability, always meets their level and challenges them for greater personal achievements.
Kristy October 2020
When our 14-year son told us he wanted to try boxing for fitness, I can’t lie, as a mum, I was extremely hesitant. My husband decided to take him to a couple of local Centres to “get a feel” and until he found The Pit, we weren’t happy for him to take it up. From the first visit, everyone at the pit was friendly, helpful & very professional. Their approach to all martial arts is amazing. They practice good old-fashioned values in a safe & friendly environment. He has been going to The Pit for approximately 8 months now & learns so much more than boxing alone. Naturally he’s learning self-defence, but they also put a huge emphasis on respect and self-discipline. My son absolutely loves going to The Pit & talks very highly of all the teachers & staff. I highly recommend The Pit to anyone who is interested in taking up martial arts.
Paul October 2020
Wanted to share my appreciation for what you do and your approach.... I went to an event on the weekend where a colleague spent a good amount of time telling me how her nephew is a black belt at 5 years old. Apparently they are a 'kids' black belt and have 'worked really hard since they started karate at 4... And no doubt they have. But this reeks of instant gratification and reward for minimal input. I appreciate so much that it takes years to master skills required to achieve each rank and that you treat your students equally. Thank you for all you do, my child has grown so much since starting with you and truly understands the commitment required. That's pretty much the way it is in a lot of places, THANK GOD you guys are old school we love it‼️
Natalie October 2020
Amazing place where everyone is welcoming and kind, you will always feel as though you belong. It is an awesome journey where you get to learn more every day. It is a positive aspect to every part of your life and I highly recommend it to everyone.
Crystal October 2020
The hard work, passion and commitment The Pit show to the arts and its members is awesome to witness. My children are learning, growing and belonging...it's a safe space to be challenged, learn and grow and laugh and have fun! The teachings are life long. Just wish we started our kids long ago.
Nicole September 2020
An establishment that actually cares about the development of your mind and personal growth... It is outstanding! PDS believe in students helping each other to achieve great individual advancement both mentally and physically. They also happen to teach great martial arts that has served the community well for decades... I can only hope that those who believe what PDS Martial Arts believe come and join and see for themselves.
Alf September 2020
I've always had an interest in martial arts and was lucky an acquaintance of mine told me about PDS. The professionalism and history behind this group means there's always something to learn not just in self-defence but also in the discipline and mental side of things, things that can be put to use outside martial arts and into your other life such as school or work. Would highly recommend this to those who wants to add martial arts into a lifelong list of experiences.
Tim September 2020
Great place to train, grow & learn new skills. The historical knowledge is also interesting! Helps you build confidence and work on yourself. Amazing group of people, and they always make you feel welcomed. 10/10 would recommend!!
Courtney September 2020
Great friendly place to lean alot of martial skill, with a deep history and knowledge.
Mitchell September 2020
They're very well-trained, and they are dedicated to their arts and are incredible teachers to anyone who wants to learn martial arts go to the pit.
Caelan August 2020
Woohoo!!!
Thank you guys so much for being the best in the business... actually caring about your members and doing everything you could to make this hard time work for everyone.
You guys went above and beyond and for that I say thank you!!
Looking forward to getting back to normal and may the rest of the year be awesome for everyone.
Kind Regards
Jody
Elite Blends June 2020
Hello Master Gatt,
My son enjoyed reading your competition stories thank you so much for sharing some of your life’s journey with us. I know he has great respect for you and appreciates the skills, knowledge and experience you have shared with him throughout the years. Reading these stories has given him a feeling of pride in knowing you and being one of your students. You lead and inspire with such passion and support for the individual we are so happy you are in his life. He is looking forward to returning inside the Dojo, although I know the outside Dojo experiences have been good lessons and important in his development, improving his ability to adapt, accept changes that at first are uncomfortable but help to build his resilience and confidence. Your words regarding what is gained from his instructors is so very true. We as a family have seen, felt and experienced the many positive and life changing behaviours and influence these skills, the knowledge, mentoring, support and the many other gifts you have all shared with him. Thank you all for your amazing efforts throughout all of this, your support and the continuation of classes has been invaluable, providing My son with some routine in a comfortable and safe setting during an anxious time. It has helped to maintain his physical, emotional and mental wellbeing, and we are very grateful to you all.
Many thanks
Kris June 2020
I have to say Master Gatt, if it wasn't for you believing in me before I did, i wouldn't be where I am in my training. I am truly thankful for your honesty, integrity and guidance. This is why I love training at The Pit. Adam May 2020
Thank you to all our Blackbelts for consistently inspiring us all by simply being who they are. Shane May 2020
Wow, such an inspiration I can’t wait to continue my journey alongside all the talented instructors and students here. Katelyn April 2020
Definitely making a wonderful difference to the lives of my three children! I have noticed Every week they learn, they turn up and are more enriched ... thank you wonderful people at The Pit! Your dedication is appreciated. Nicole R April 2020
Thank you and the crew for everything you have done to continue the children’s learning and progress. You are all amazing! Kristy M April 2020
In spite of everything that is happening right now, we have to be positive. Otherwise, we might as well give up and surrender the fight. Don't know what I would do if I didn't have this happy, safe place to go to. I would probably go crazier than I already am. Mick April 2020
Thank you for all that you do and all that you bring, it is very much appreciated by all. Elbow Tap. Emma April 2020
Tai Chi & Longevity 50+ Fitness & Social
Reviews
From members, clients & community groups
The Longevity Senior services 50+ Club offers the best comprehensive exercise programs! Fantastic instructors in a friendly, relaxed environment! So glad I discovered The Pit!
Brigid September 2020
Thanks Ell for suggesting Dr Hohenberg, he pulled the team of 4 doctors to work together and then rehab.
After having been in 2 different rehabilitation exercise therapies I can only praise you and Nick for your programs, tips and techniques. You are both way ahead of some exercise physiologists in your approaches.
Nick, please keep pushing balance as I have seen some horrible injuries from simple falls.
Robyn March 2020
The Longevity Senior Services Benefits Programme for the Macarthur Region is proving to be exactly that - Beneficial to people over 50 who are looking to improve their Health and Lifestyle, while making new friends and social connections at the same time..
Starting from small beginnings with Tai Chi and Meditation followed by a social catch up over a cuppa and cake, at The Pit in Smeaton Grange on a Monday, the programme is now extending over the wider Macarthur Community with classes also held in other venues.
The Longevity Seniors Services now also includes suitable exercise programmes, geared toward the strength and fitness we need, to have quality in our more senior years.
Health Professionals are invited to visit periodically to address issues like joint health, nutrition, good mental health etc. among other topics, and all of these opportunities are greatly appreciated and increasingly well attended.
Socially, bus trips monthly are always popular and include an element of education as well as pleasure.
Personally, I have been involved with this innovative programme from its beginnings and feel blessed to watch it grow.
Nothing could be better than to see it expand even further for the benefit of our Macarthur Seniors.
Patricia Raisbeck 2019
Tai Chi
In 9 months, I have noticed that the arthritis in my hands is so much better.
Lynne 2019
I have been enjoying Tai Chi for 2 years. I have had great whole body results and I can now meditate. I love the way Master Nick talks to us of his experiences as it provides great insight in to what can be achieved. It is a pleasure to learn from him.
Vicki 2019
I have enjoyed Tai Chi & meditation for nearly 2 years. Everything is explained really well, I am just not good at it! It has been excellent for my fitness and balance, which is important as I just want to stay fit. I hope Nick continues to teach Tai Chi at Wivenhoe Village for many years to come.
Jean 2019
Over a period of 16mths I have notice a huge improvement in joint mobility. My goal is to continue being fit and mobile.
Elizabeth 2019
I have been doing Tai Chi for 10 months. Initially I started for coordination & balance (& remembering!) Over time, I have noticed in my self increased stability and general fitness. Now I'm aiming to develop more skills and a better memory.
Fran 2019
