Martial Arts Classes in Barnsley for Kids, Teens & Adults
Reach Your Full Potential at Our Flagship School – Trusted by Barnsley Families Since 2011. Expert Coaching, Real Progress & a Positive Community Environment – Right Here at The Combat Academy HQ
Looking for martial arts classes in Barnsley that offer more than just punches and kicks? Since 2011, The Combat Academy Barnsley has helped thousands of local students unlock their potential, improve their mindset, and grow in confidence – all through structured, high-energy martial arts training.
As our flagship school and national headquarters, Barnsley is the heart of our organisation – founded by world-renowned coach Mick Crossland and home to a passionate team of instructors and customer care specialists.
With 32 classes running each week, we offer a flexible schedule, expert instruction and a welcoming community where students of all ages can thrive. Whether someone is starting out in children’s martial arts, joining kickboxing classes in Barnsley or stepping into our dedicated boxing programme, there is a clear pathway to progress.
Why Choose The Combat Academy Barnsley?
-
Our Flagship HQ in Barnsley - Trusted by Local Families since 2011
-
Expert Coaching, Real Progress & a Welcoming Vibe
-
Focus on fitness, confidence and life skills
-
Positive, professional coaching from experienced instructors
-
Classes for All Ages - 32 Each Week
REACH YOUR FULL POTENTIAL
Ninja Tots (Age 3)
Our youngest programme in Barnsley, Ninja Tots, is a fun and playful introduction to movement, focus and early martial arts skills for children taking their very first steps into training.
These short, upbeat sessions give 3-year-olds a safe and structured space to move, play and stay active while developing balance, coordination and listening skills. As part of our early years pathway, Ninja Tots helps children build routine, follow instructions and grow in confidence from the very beginning.
With plenty of attention and encouragement from our coaching team, the atmosphere stays light, positive and supportive. Even shy children often settle in quickly, making Ninja Tots a natural first step before progressing into Little Ninjas.
Little Ninjas (Ages 4-7)
Fun, energetic classes that help young children build confidence, balance and coordination while enjoying the early stages of their martial arts journey.
Little Ninjas is a great next step for Barnsley families looking for kids martial arts in a positive, supportive environment. Children at this age respond well to a mix of exciting drills, teamwork activities and simple martial arts techniques that help develop balance, body awareness and focus.
Our coaches keep every session friendly, well organised and encouraging, making sure each child feels included and supported. It’s a strong foundation for the skills, confidence and habits children continue to build as they progress through our martial arts programs.
Junior Martial Arts (Ages 8-12)
Junior Martial Arts is a great next step for children who are ready for more challenge, responsibility and progress in their training. Through structured, engaging sessions, students build confidence, improve coordination and develop discipline, resilience and focus.
Classes are active, enjoyable, and keep children motivated while helping them grow in skill, fitness and self-belief. It’s a positive environment where young people can stay active, make friends and continue building strong habits both on and off the mats.
Our Mission!
Our staff team are a home grown collective of dedicated, positive, passionate and successful individuals who believe in and have benefitted from the life changing power of Martial Arts. It is our mission to share the benefits of quality Martial Arts tuition as far and wide as possible so that everyone may enjoy the personal, social and emotional growth that can occur through the learning and challenge that Martial Arts provides. It is our belief that Martial Arts is not only a tool utilised for the development of physical abilities and mental fortitude. Much more than this; we believe that commitment to the Martial Arts journey can help an individual build confidence, improve communication skills and develop social and emotional resilience while gaining achievement and acceptance.
Teens & Adult Kickboxing
A high-energy blend of fitness, striking technique and practical self-defence, suitable for all experience levels.
Our Teen & Adult Kickboxing classes in Barnsley give students a fun, challenging and rewarding way to get fitter while learning real technique. Sessions combine pad work, footwork, combinations and conditioning, creating a balanced mix of technical development and fitness training in a motivating, supportive environment.
Whether you’re completely new or returning to training, classes help you progress at your own pace. It’s a great way to build confidence, relieve stress and enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle through kickboxing classes in Barnsley.
Teens & Adults Boxing
Straightforward, effective coaching in real boxing fundamentals, suitable for both beginners and more experienced students.
Our boxing classes in Barnsley offer a focused and enjoyable way to learn proper technique while building fitness and confidence. Sessions cover footwork, movement, combinations and timing, helping students develop strong boxing foundations in a supportive and motivating environment.
Whether you are trying boxing for the first time or looking to take your training more seriously, classes are designed to help you progress safely and steadily. It’s a rewarding way to improve coordination, build confidence and enjoy a full-body workout week after week.
Ladies Only Kickboxing
A supportive, confidence-boosting training environment created just for women.
Our ladies only kickboxing classes in Barnsley give women a relaxed and empowering space to train, get fitter and learn proper technique. Sessions combine striking drills, pad work and full-body fitness, helping you feel stronger, more capable and more confident with every class.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or returning to training, the atmosphere is welcoming, encouraging and free from pressure. You can work at your own pace, enjoy steady progress and be part of a positive group that makes training feel motivating and enjoyable.
Fighter Development & Elite Training
A pathway for committed students who want to challenge themselves through competitive martial arts.
Our Fight Team is one of the most successful and active in the UK, offering advanced coaching for aspiring competitors and dedicated athletes. Based at our Barnsley HQ, this is the highest level of training available at The Combat Academy.
The Combat Academy HQ, Barnsley
Unit 4, Claycliffe Business Park, Barugh Green, Barnsley, S75 1JU
Free onsite Parking
Easy access via public transport
01226 755 794
Please note, our office hours are 9am to 5pm, Mon to Fri. All calls and texts are monitored daily. If for any reason we are unable to answer immediately, we aim to reply to all texts by the next working weekday and voicemails within 48hrs.
| Monday | 4pm - 9pm |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 10am - 11am & 4pm - 9pm |
| Wednesday | 4pm - 9pm |
| Thursday | 10am - 11m & 4pm - 9pm |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | 9am - 1pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
Meet The Team
We’re proud to have one of the most experienced and diverse coaching teams in the UK – backed by a dedicated support team who care just as much as we do.
Mick
Crossland
Mick is the former ICO World Super Middleweight kickboxing Champion and has over 30 years experience training in various martial arts including Kickboxing, Boxing, Muay Thai & Karate.
Tommy
Crossland
Tommy is former British, European & World Amateur K1 Kickboxing Champion and is currently one of the Rising Stars of the UK’s Professional K1 Kickboxing scene.
Nathan
Hill
Nathan is one of our most beloved coaches. He is known for his enthusiasm and positive energy which helps create self-belief and confidence in all students who encounter him.
Gasan
Gindra
Gasan Gindra as he is affectionately known throughout the kickboxing world is one of the most recognised and exciting talents on the UK Kickboxing scene.
Blaine
Wilson
Coming soon
Tyler
Stear
Tyler brings energy and connection to every class – especially skilled at working with children and helping new students settle in.
Guyvin
Dawkins
Coming Soon
Lily
Thompson
Coming Soon
Taylor
Bowen
Coming Soon
Zach
Duvall
Coming Soon
What Our Members Say
Our son Teddy, who is 7 years old, has absolutely flourished since joining. His confidence, discipline, fitness and kickboxing ability have improved beyond anything we could have imagined. Every week he looks forward to training, and watching him grow both as a kickboxer and as a young lad has been incredible.
A huge thank you to Gasan, Blaine, Guyvin and all of the instructors. The passion, patience and dedication they show to every child is second to none. They know exactly how to get the very best out of each student, making every session fun, challenging and rewarding. Teddy is flying under their guidance, and we’re so grateful for everything they do.
A special mention also has to go to Nikki, the centre manager. She is one of the friendliest, most welcoming people you’ll ever meet and will genuinely bend over backwards to help you and your family achieve your goals. Nothing is ever too much trouble, and she makes everyone feel like part of the Combat Academy family from day one.
What makes this place so special is the atmosphere. It’s supportive, encouraging and full of people who genuinely want to see each other succeed. It’s much more than a martial arts gym—it’s a community.
If you’re looking for somewhere that will help build confidence, respect, resilience and life skills while learning from exceptional coaches and amazing people, then The Combat Academy Barnsley is the place to be. We couldn’t be prouder to be part of it.
This community help me grown and do thing I never thought I could.
From the coaches , staff and team mates they have all helped me get to this point .
Could not recommend enough
Give it a go , you will not be disappointed.
Special shout outs to Tommy and Guyvin. You guys are such good role models to our Jacob!
Can't forget Nikki! Shes the best!
🌟 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Our seven-year-old son started out with relentless energy to burn and a heavy reliance on screens. We knew he needed a sporty focus, and after hearing great things from his school mates, we enrolled him on a free trial. Finding a martial arts school that balances genuine skill with character development can be a minefield, but The Combat Academy is absolutely the real deal. Their pipeline is incredibly inclusive, starting little ones from age four in Little Ninjas right through to specialized ladies-only sessions and elite adult training.
What we found was a world-class training ground that treats character building as an art form, prioritizing discipline, focus, respect, and honour over just learning how to throw a punch. Every class begins with students lined up in perfect rows and concludes with a formal bow to the tutor, embedding structure into their daily routine. Yet, the atmosphere remains incredibly friendly and motivating, filled with praise and a warm welcome for raw beginners. Tutors regularly take extra time to help new starters overcome their initial fears.
It did not take us long to realize how exceptional this environment is for our son’s communication and social skills, which is exactly why we took the financial plunge and bought him a lifetime membership. It is easily the best investment we have ever made.
Holding this entire operation together is a team of highly qualified tutors who are part of the active fight team, so they truly walk the walk. In particular is Tommy, whose personal dedication to fitness and self-motivation is completely infectious. He pours everything into his students, keeping the room motivated by mixing profound martial arts wisdom with legendary motivational quotes.
The pedigree here is unmatched. This academy breeds champions, boasting an incredible roster of British, European, and World Title holders from a very young age, including phenomenal teenagers who are already multiple-time World Champions. Knowing our son shares a room with global elite kickboxers has given him an immense surge of confidence. He has just graduated from the Positive Start programme, proudly sporting his brand-new junior green belt with a hard-earned green stripe, and has officially stepped up into the Leadership programme.
Behind all of this is Nikki, who keeps the whole place ticking along. From greeting new starters with a huge smile and a big dose of motherly friendliness to managing the seasoned fighters, Nikki is the beating heart of the club.
Once you’ve been a member for a short while, you realize this place isn’t just about fitness or fighting. It’s about honour, respect, dedication, and giving members the skills to be the best version of themselves. The community of like-minded parents is also wonderful, and we have made some amazing friendships. Our son is growing physically and mentally right in front of our eyes, and his classes are the main focus of his week.
If you want a place that can take a young ninja, drop them into a room full of world champions, and shape them into a resilient, respectful individual, you cannot do better than this brilliant team. They bring ultimate five-star vibes to every single session.
He enjoys every aspect of the academy, from his regular classes and one-to-one training sessions to helping coach the Little Ninjas, which he absolutely loves. The leadership programme is fantastic and has given him so many valuable skills and opportunities.
All of the trainers and reception staff are amazing. Nothing is ever too much to ask, and they always take the time to explain things, offer support, and make everyone feel welcome.
I would highly recommend the Combat Academy to anyone looking for a professional, supportive, and friendly environment where children can grow in confidence, fitness, and discipline.
From screen, door to floor - the whole team made it so easy to want to get involved and do it again 👊
Was I scared and nervous - hell yeah! But I did it! And I loved it. Met some new ladies, belly laughed, and kicked some pads. What's not to love? I might have found that new hobby I was looking for - highly recommend 🙌💕✌️
There are so many reasons to bring martial arts into your life, but mental health, at any age, has to be one of the most important ones.
I was dubious to join originally as I’ve a hidden disability that affects my joints so I wasn’t sure if it would be the right fit for me. My coach couldn’t have been more understanding and supportive and guided me through my first sessions to ensure I could manage certain exercises or if struggled he adapted things for me. I’m now nearly a year in and both my physical fitness and mental health have never been so good.
What originally started out as a test to see if I could exercise again has turned into a journey of self development and a new found love for the sport. I never would have dreamt that I’d be sharing the mats with so many incredibly talented and knowledgeable people and aiming towards my 4th belt.
The Combat Academy is a real community that makes you feel welcome and at home from the moment you start. No matter what age or level of fitness you are there is always encouragement from your teammates and coaches.
When fitness feels like fun you know you've cracked it!
Would highly recommend to anyone.
The coaching team are incredible- knowledgeable, committed, enthusiastic, energetic, talented, patient and all round awesome individuals!
The gym atmosphere is very welcoming, no matter your level- absolute beginners to seasoned pros are all made to feel extremely welcome! Whether you are looking to improve fitness, get your first belt or fight in the ring- there is something for everyone.
Don’t take my word for it, come down to the gym and check it out for yourself!
For anyone thinking of starting this Journey I would say immediately to give it a try, it will be one of the best decisions you will make. The Instructors are dedicated and will help you achieve your results whilst having a great time.
Thank you Combat Academy!
The coaches have helped massively with helping my confidence and not being afraid of being around new people.
The whole place is welcoming and it feels like one massive family.
I'd definitely recommend to anyone 🙏🏼
