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Combat Athletics Academy
Your Journey Begins Here
At Combat Athletics Academy, we focus on technical excellence, physical conditioning and personal growth. You can train for fitness, self-defence, competition, or simply to challenge yourself and build confidence. Every class is designed to help you progress safely, efficiently and consistently.
Our club offers high-level instruction in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Striking (Boxing & Kickboxing), Wrestling and MMA in a supportive, no-ego environment.
Our classes are led by a 2nd degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt under Mark Tucker/Pedro Bessa, bringing over 18 years of experience with 13 professional fights under his belt in MMA, and by a 2X British Champion in Kickboxing with over 30 years experience and an impressive knowledge base. You'll learn proven techniques, smart training methods and real-world application - without the intimidation.
No matter what your goal is, you'll find expert coaching, a welcoming team atmosphere and a place to become your strongest self - on and off the mats.
Photo Credit: JH Media South West
Classes we offer
Below are the classes we offer at Combat Athletics Academy. Each class is designed to build skill, confidence and discipline for all experience levels. Explore the sections below to learn more about each martial art and find the class/classes that are right for you.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Tuesday & Thursday - 7pm to 9pm
Striking (Boxing & Kickboxing)
Wrestling
Friday - 7pm to 9pm
Monday & Wednesday - 6.30pm to 9pm
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on technique, leverage and control to overcome other opponents. Training emphasises ground fighting, submissions and positional strategies. BJJ is practiced in two main formats: Gi, where practitioners where a Kimono that allows grips on the clothing, and No-Gi, which is trained in shorts/leggings and a rash guard with faster-paced movement and different gripping strategies. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has evolved into one of the most respected and widely practiced martial arts in the world.
Striking arts such as Boxing and Kickboxing focus on powerful, precise stand-up techniques using punches, kicks, footwork and defensive movement. Boxing emphasises hand strikes, head movement and ring control, while Kickboxing expands the arsenal to include kicks, knees, elbows and dynamic combinations. Rooted in centuries-old combat traditions and modern competitive sport, striking disciplines continue to evolve as effective methods for self-defence, athletic development, and personal confidence.
Wrestling is a foundational grappling discipline that emphasises takedowns, control, balance, and positional dominance. Training focuses on strength, conditioning and technique, teaching athletes how to dictate where a fight takes place. With roots tracing back to ancient civilisations and a strong presence in modern competitive sport, wrestling remains one of the most effective and respected martial arts for building athleticism and real-world grappling skill.
Photo Credit: JH Media South West
Photo Credit: lensoflibby
Meet the Team
Meet the team behind Combat Athletics Academy. Our experienced coaches are dedicated to helping you grow, both on and off the mats. Read below to learn more about their backgrounds, experience, and what makes each member of our team an important part of the club.
Lead Instructor (BJJ & MMA)
(Designated Safeguarding Lead)
Sam Gilbert
Sam is our lead instructor and heart of the club. A 2nd Degree Black Belt with 13 professional MMA fights, he brings nearly 20 years of experience in mixed martial arts to every class he teaches. Sam's got a true passion for coaching - he genuinely loves the sport and thrives on helping others grow, improve and achieve their own personal goals with his deep technical knowledge and supportive approach.
Kickboxing Instructor
Allen Willows
Allen is a huge asset to our club, bringing elite experience and championship pedigree to every session. A 2X British Champion and 1X National Champion, Allen has competed in over 100 kickboxing bouts with an impressive 80% win rate. His depth of knowledge, high-level striking expertise, and passion for coaching make his Monday Striking classes both challenging and inspiring for students of all levels.