Pittsburgh's #1 Jiu-Jitsu academy. We help everyday people become experts at self-defense — through detailed technique, hard training, and a room that actually remembers your name.
LIVE / MAT A · NO-GI
Programs for every age and level — from a first day on the mat to advanced grappling. Adults, teens, and kids all train in a structured, welcoming environment.
The perfect starting point. Basic movements, positions, and concepts with no sparring — a comfortable on-ramp for complete beginners.
Core adult program. Technical instruction, drilling, and live rounds covering the full range of positions and submissions.
Deep focus on the gi game — guard work, sweeps, submissions, and the technical details that separate good from great.
Grappling without the gi — faster pace, body control, scrambles, and submission chains used in modern competition.
Structured training designed for teens — builds discipline, confidence, and self-defense skills in a positive environment.
Fun, safe, and age-appropriate. Kids learn movement, respect, and self-defense while building friendships on the mat.
Black belt. Opened True Believer in 2015 because Pittsburgh deserved a serious room. TAC Team affiliate since 2025.
HEAD COACH
True Believer Jiu-Jitsu was founded in 2015 by black-belt Jacob Miclot. Since day one, the school has worked to foster an inclusive and safe environment for practitioners of every size, age, and experience level.
In 2025, True Believer Jiu-Jitsu became a part of TAC (Thursday Afternoon Crew) Team — a prominent association committed to the development of great citizens through the art of Jiu-Jitsu. The team emphasizes a strong, supportive, and competitive, community-focused culture.
Jake's philosophy is simple: anyone who walks in should leave a better version of themselves. That happens through detailed instruction, a welcoming room, and a genuine investment in each student — from their first day on the mat to their first competition medal.
Unedited quotes from students who've actually put in the time.
The place has nothing but a loving crowd of kids. Just like this is a family, I just don't want to leave. They have all welcomed me in with open arms. Regardless of what I'm going through, I walk in and feel at home. They welcome in all student-bodies, teach in a profound way, and give all students the tools to better themselves.
Jake Miclot is the real deal. If you want to learn BJJ the right way — detailed instruction, a welcoming room, and people who genuinely care about your progress — True Believer is the spot in Pittsburgh.
I have been training for a little over a year and it is one of the best decisions I have made. I walked in knowing no one and left day one feeling part of a team. The coaches break things down in a way that makes BJJ approachable for anyone.
Show up 15 minutes early. Borrow a gi if you don't have one. No prior experience required — the only wrong move is waiting another week.