More than a gym.
A community.
A positive, upbeat environment where every member of your family can thrive. From high-energy classes to fun community events, there is truly something here for everyone.
Welcome to
By Any Means.
We use a modern, game-based learning style — known as the Constraints-Led Approach — that makes classes engaging, safe, and incredibly fun for all ages.
Founded by Al Lagura, a USBJJF Certified Black Belt, our academy is more than just a gym. It's a community dedicated to growth, resilience, and transformation through the art of Jiu-Jitsu.
We believe in empowering individuals of all ages and backgrounds to push past their limits — both physically and mentally. Our safe, inclusive, and supportive environment is designed to help everyone thrive, from complete beginners to seasoned competitors.
From the track
to the mat.
Al Lagura didn't start on the mats — he started on the track. For two decades, he competed as a racecar driver, chasing speed and learning what it means to perform under pressure.
Then Jiu-Jitsu found him. After 15+ years of training, he earned his black belt under the IBJJF and never looked back.
But what makes By Any Means different isn't just Al's background — it's his philosophy. In 2024, he rebuilt the academy from the ground up around one idea: let people find their own game.
He tested it first with his own daughter. For a full year, he trained her using the Constraints-Led Approach — no new moves, just problem-solving through live rounds. She found her own way to win. That experience became the name. That experience became the gym.
"By Any Means. However you need to get there — we'll help you find the way."
Built different,
on purpose.
Everything we do — from our hands-on approach to community investment — is about helping students become better athletes, and more importantly, better people.
Unique Teaching Style
Our teaching style avoids anything robotic. Students learn through hands-on training with live rounds. Through the Constraints-Led Approach, we serve as the navigator and game designer as you find your own game.
Community Work
We are highly involved in the Manteca community — supporting local businesses with pop-up events alongside entrepreneur parents and students. We are committed to helping everyone in Manteca thrive.
Third Space Community
We want to provide a Third Space for students to feel free and work on themselves. By Any Means can be your place away from work or home — a place to belong.
IBJJF-Certified Academy
We are proud to be an IBJJF-Certified Academy, meeting the highest standards of instruction, safety, and professionalism — with access to official IBJJF-sanctioned events and championships.
Fun Free Events
From our July 4th event to our annual Summer Bash camping trip and holiday gatherings — this is a place where we train hard and enjoy each other's company all year long.
Positivity
Every day in our academy, you can take a break from life's stressors and dive into the best part of your day. Our team lifts students up in every class — you'll leave feeling better than you came in.
Why our community
chooses By Any Means.
Convenient Schedule
Conveniently located with a class schedule tailored to fit the rhythms of your daily life. We make your martial arts experience as smooth and accessible as possible.
Top-Notch Facility
Top-notch facilities and some of the best instructors around, all in a setting where safety is a priority. The kind of place parents feel good about.
Community & Friends
A beacon of community and positivity for kids and adults. Join a supportive family where camaraderie and personal growth flourish in a welcoming, diverse environment.
Life at
By Any Means.
From dynamic classes to joyous community events — a glimpse of the passion and dedication that define us.
