Business Details
43 Years
experience
Martial Arts and Fitness Centre in Newport
Established in 1983 by Grandmaster Gary Gassor, we have dedicated over four decades to delivering high-quality martial arts instruction and fitness training. Our centre specialises in ITF Taekwon-Do, kickboxing, and sparring, catering to students aged four and above. With satellite clubs across Newport, Caldicot, Llanfoist, Newbridge, Risca, Rogerstone, and Undy, we combine technical excellence with character development.Our team of certified instructors, including multiple black belt holders, ensures a structured, safe, and motivating environment. Affiliated with the UK ITF, BTC, and WUMA, we maintain rigorous standards in both teaching and competition. Our purpose-built facility on Chepstow Road serves as a hub for community engagement and lifelong learning in martial arts.
Services
Taekwon-Do
Kickboxing
Fitness/Sparring
Martial Arts Classes
Black Belt Training
Youth Programs
Satellite Club Sessions
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years of experience in ITF Taekwon-Do instruction
- Our team includes multiple 3rd-6th degree black belt instructors
- We operate seven satellite clubs across South Wales
- We maintain affiliations with four international martial arts federations
- Our instructors combine technical expertise with child-friendly teaching methods
Associations and certifications
- UK ITF
- BTC
- WUMA
Services
Taekwon-Do
Our ITF Taekwon-Do classes teach traditional techniques with modern pedagogy, focusing on self-defence, physical fitness, and mental discipline. Students progress through structured belt systems under certified black belt instructors. Suitable for ages four and above, sessions emphasize technical precision and character development.
Kickboxing
Kickboxing sessions combine striking techniques with cardiovascular training to improve strength, coordination, and endurance. Delivered by experienced 6th degree black belt instructors, classes cater to both recreational and competitive athletes in a safe, supervised environment.
Fitness/Sparring
Specialised fitness programs integrate martial arts techniques with high-intensity interval training. Sparring sessions develop reflexes, strategic thinking, and practical application of techniques in controlled environments under expert supervision.
Youth Programs
Age-appropriate martial arts instruction for children aged four and above focuses on motor skills, discipline, and confidence-building. Classes use gamified learning while maintaining technical standards and safety protocols.
Satellite Club Sessions
Seven regional clubs provide accessible martial arts training across South Wales. Each location maintains consistent teaching standards with central facility instructors, ensuring uniform progression tracking and examination opportunities.
People
Grandmaster Gary Gassor
Chief Instructor
9th degree black belt with 40+ years teaching experience, founder of MAFC in 1998. Holds senior instructor qualifications across multiple martial arts disciplines.
Kay Gassor
Manager
Co-founder with extensive administrative and operational experience in martial arts education. Oversees day-to-day management of the Newport facility.
Leanne Gassor-Jones
Senior Instructor
5th degree black belt with 25+ years teaching experience. Specialises in youth development programs and competition preparation.
Adam Heyman-Heybyrne
Senior Instructor
6th degree black belt responsible for Caldicot and Risca satellite clubs. Expert in kickboxing techniques and advanced sparring instruction.
Christopher Thomas
Instructor
4th degree black belt operating Newbridge and Rogerstone clubs. Specialises in technical curriculum delivery and belt examination preparation.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialise in ITF Taekwon-Do and traditional kickboxing techniques.
What age can children start classes?
Our programs accept students from age four upwards.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, we provide discounted rates for multiple family members.
Are trial classes available?
We offer free introductory sessions for new students.
How often are belt examinations held?
Grading occurs quarterly with certified international examiners.
Do you compete in martial arts tournaments?
We regularly participate in regional and national ITF competitions.
