Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Premier Martial Arts Academy in Cambridge
Established in 1989, Cambridge Academy Of Martial Arts provides high-quality, safe, and engaging martial arts instruction in a welcoming environment. Our three core programmesIntegrated Fighting Arts, Savate, and Canne de Combatcater to individuals of all skill levels, with options to train in one or all disciplines. Our instructors are DBS-checked, fully insured, and hold first aid certifications, ensuring a professional and secure learning environment. With decades of collective experience, our team includes internationally recognised experts like Ollie Batts, a Professor of Savate and author of Combat Sombo, and Julie Gabriel, a former GB team member and President of the Federation Internationale de Savate. We prioritise continuous development for both students and instructors, fostering a community where martial arts thrive as a lifelong pursuit.Our members have achieved success in national and international competitions, including World and European Championships, reflecting our commitment to excellence. We offer inclusive training for all ages, from juniors to adults, with structured pathways for fitness, self-defence, and competitive advancement. Regular seminars, workshops, and events further enrich our members' experiences, supported by partnerships with global martial arts leaders. Transparency, ethical practice, and a focus on personal growth underpin our approach, making us a trusted choice for martial arts in Cambridge and beyond.
Services
Martial Arts Training
Self-Defence Classes
Savate Instruction
Canne de Combat
Integrated Fighting Arts
Kickboxing
Wheelchair Cane Fencing
Instructor Training
Beginner Courses
Competitive Training
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- Our instructors hold international certifications in martial arts and competitive combat sports.
- We provide DBS-checked, first aid-certified trainers for safe and professional instruction.
- Proven success in national and international competitions, including World Championships.
- Inclusive programmes for all ages, from juniors to wheelchair users.
- Regular seminars led by globally renowned martial arts experts.
Associations and certifications
- DBS Checked
What people say
Great enthusiasm
Good sportsmanship
Excellent demonstration
Inclusive training
Professional instructors
Services
Savate Instruction
Savate combines dynamic kicks and hand strikes in a structured, Olympic-inspired format. Our classes cater to all levels, from beginners learning foundational techniques to advanced students refining competitive skills. The discipline enhances fitness, coordination, and self-defence capabilities while adhering to ethical combat principles.
Canne de Combat
This traditional French stick-fighting art focuses on precise strikes, blocks, and footwork. Training includes sparring sessions with protective gear, suitable for recreational and competitive practitioners. It builds agility, strategic thinking, and physical resilience while preserving historical techniques.
Integrated Fighting Arts
A comprehensive system blending Kali, JKD, and Silat techniques for striking, trapping, and grappling. Designed for real-world self-defence, it teaches practical skills adaptable to various scenarios. The curriculum balances technical depth with accessibility for all experience levels.
Wheelchair Cane Fencing
An inclusive programme modifying Canne de Combat for wheelchair users. Sessions focus on upper-body coordination, defensive strategies, and competitive readiness. The sport promotes accessibility, confidence, and physical engagement in a supportive community environment.
Self-Defence Courses
Practical self-defence instruction covering escapes, strikes, and situational awareness. Tailored for adults and teens, the courses address real-life threats while building confidence and physical fitness. Techniques prioritise simplicity and effectiveness under stress.
People
Ollie Batts
Senior Instructor
Founder of CAMA with over 40 years of martial arts expertise, holding black belts in Combat Sombo, Eskrima, and JKD. Internationally recognised Savate professor and author of Combat Sombo literature.
Julie Gabriel
Senior Instructor
Co-founder with 30+ years of experience, holding advanced ranks in Combat Sombo and Eskrima. Former GB Savate champion and international competition medalist with leadership roles in global martial arts federations.
Jon West
Instructor
Trained for 20+ years in Savate and Canne de Combat, holding moniteur level certifications. Competed internationally for Great Britain and mentors students in competitive techniques and sparring.
Morgan Alexander
Instructor
Certified in JKD-Kali-Silat and Savate, with a brown belt in Eskrima. Multiple World Championship medalist in Canne de Combat and experienced coach for advanced martial arts practitioners.
Jacob West
Instructor
Specialises in Canne de Combat, earning international medals for Great Britain. Teaches technique and sparring classes, focusing on competitive readiness and historical stick-fighting methods.
Questions
What martial arts does Cambridge Academy teach?
We offer Savate, Canne de Combat, Integrated Fighting Arts, Kickboxing, and Wheelchair Cane Fencing for all ages and skill levels.
Are classes suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, our beginner trial sessions and Essentials programme provide structured introductions to martial arts fundamentals in a supportive environment.
Do you offer competitive training opportunities?
We prepare students for national and international competitions, with experienced coaches and a proven track record in World Championships.
Are instructors qualified and insured?
All instructors are DBS-checked, first aid-certified, and hold advanced martial arts ranks, with many having international competition experience.
What facilities do you use?
We train at St Bede's Sports Hall and Gym in Cambridge, with free parking and accessible public transport options available.
Can children join martial arts classes?
Yes, we have junior classes for ages 7-12 and teen/adult sessions, with tailored instruction focusing on fitness, confidence, and safety.
