WELCOME TO SUNDERLAND

Martial Arts Classes in Sunderland for Kids, Teens & Adults

Looking for a Positive, Powerful Way to Build Confidence, Focus & Fitness? Join Our Friendly Martial Arts Community in Sunderland – Led by Expert Coaches, Backed by Real Results

Since opening in 2023, The Combat Academy Sunderland has been helping local families and individuals experience the long-term benefits of martial arts training. Whether you want your child to grow in confidence and discipline, or you’re ready to challenge yourself physically and mentally, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Whether you want your child to grow in confidence and discipline, or you’re ready to challenge yourself physically and mentally, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our martial arts classes in sunderland are fun, focused, and welcoming to all – no matter your experience level.

Led by Senior Instructor Stu Roper, alongside Jamie Roper and Ryan Foster, our Sunderland team creates an environment where students of all ages can grow, improve, and thrive – both on and off the mats.

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Why Choose The Combat Academy Sunderland?

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Inclusive, welcoming classes for all ages and abilities
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Proven programs that build real-world confidence, discipline, and fitness
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Supportive, high-quality instruction from passionate coaches
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Friendly atmosphere that helps students feel comfortable and motivated
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Backed by a national network with a strong record of success

REACH YOUR FULL POTENTIAL

Little Ninjas (Ages 4 - 7)

Build confidence, listening skills and body control in a safe, playful environment with our Little Ninjas program. These fun-filled martial arts classes are designed to help young children stay active while developing focus, balance and coordination.

Little Ninjas gives children aged 4–7 in Sunderland a brilliant foundation, helping them build confidence and positive habits that carry through into school and everyday life. It’s an ideal introduction to martial arts in a friendly setting where children can learn, grow and enjoy being part of a group.

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Juniors (Ages 8-12)

Support your child’s development with our junior martial arts classes, to promote discipline, self-belief and physical fitness while still being fun and social. Training is engaging and structured, helping children stay active while learning valuable skills.

Juniors classes focus on building confidence, focus and resilience through a balanced mix of martial arts techniques and age-appropriate fitness. Children are encouraged to challenge themselves, work towards personal goals and develop positive habits that support them both in and out of the academy.

If you’re looking for junior martial arts classes in Sunderland that help children grow in confidence and enjoy staying active, this programme offers a supportive next step. It’s a great way for young people to build skills, friendships and a strong sense of achievement as they continue their martial arts journey.

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Ready to Take the First Step?

Whether you’re a parent looking for something meaningful for your child, or an adult ready for a new challenge – martial arts at The Combat Academy Sunderland is a powerful place to start. Book your FREE Taster Session today and come see what we’re all about.

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Teens & Adults

Looking for a way to de-stress, get fitter or learn something new? Our Kickboxing classes for teens and adults in Sunderland help students build real-world confidence, resilience and practical self-defence skills in a supportive environment.

Training is structured, engaging and suitable for all experience levels, whether you’re completely new or returning to training. Classes focus on improving fitness, coordination and mental strength, while encouraging students to challenge themselves at a pace that feels comfortable.

If you’re ready to try something positive and rewarding, our kickboxing classes offer a great opportunity to stay active, meet like-minded people and build confidence both on and off the mats.

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Fighter Development

For those who want to push their limits, our advanced Fighter Development sessions provide higher-level martial arts training for committed students. This program is for individuals who want to challenge themselves and develop beyond regular classes.

Training offers a clear path towards competition for those who choose to pursue it, delivered in a focused and supportive environment that encourages progression at a higher level.

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Ladies Only Kickboxing

Our ladies only kickboxing classes in Sunderland give women a positive and encouraging place to improve fitness, learn new skills and build confidence.

Training combines kickboxing techniques, pad work and conditioning in sessions that are structured, enjoyable and suitable for beginners as well as women with previous experience. You can work at a pace that suits you while being supported by experienced coaches and a friendly training group.

If you’re looking for women’s kickboxing in Sunderland as a way to stay active, reduce stress or simply try something new, our classes offer a welcoming place to start and progress.

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The Combat Academy - Sunderland

Unit 16a Riverside Rd, Southwick, Sunderland, SR5 3JG

Free onsite Parking

Easy access via public transport

0191 562 3248

sunderland@thecombatacademy.org.uk

We offer a full weekly schedule of classes for all ages and abilities – including after-school, evening, and weekend sessions. Try it for yourself with a FREE Taster Session – and see what makes us different.

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Monday	4pm - 9pm
Tuesday	4pm - 9pm
Wednesday	4pm - 9pm
Thursday	4pm - 9pm
Friday	Closed
Saturday	9am - 1pm
Sunday	Closed

Meet The Team

Our instructors are here to guide, motivate, and support every student, whether you’re starting your first session or training toward high-level goals.

At Sunderland, you’re not just learning martial arts – you’re building positive habits for life.

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**Stu**
Roper

Known for his calm leadership and technical coaching, Stu brings years of experience and a passion for student progress to every session

**Jamie**
Roper

Brings high energy and a personal approach to his coaching, making every student feel confident and encouraged

**Ryan**
Foster

Supportive, approachable, and focused on helping students improve both their skills and their mindset

FAQs - Martial arts & Kickboxing Classes

What martial arts classes are available for children in Sunderland?

The Combat Academy Sunderland offers Little Ninjas for children aged 4-7 and Junior Martial Arts for children aged 8-12. Both programmes use structured, age-appropriate training to help children develop confidence, focus, coordination, fitness and positive habits while enjoying being part of a supportive martial arts community.

Are the kickboxing classes suitable for complete beginners?

Yes. Our teen and adult kickboxing classes welcome complete beginners, as well as people returning to martial arts or those with previous experience. You can also start with a FREE Taster Session before deciding whether to join.

Is kickboxing good for self-defence?

Kickboxing develops practical striking, movement, coordination and awareness while helping students become more confident in their physical abilities. Our Sunderland classes combine these skills with structured training designed to improve fitness, resilience and confidence.

Can I progress from regular classes into fighter training?

Yes. Students who want to take their training further can progress into Fighter Development. These advanced sessions provide a more focused training environment for committed students who want to improve their martial arts skills at a higher level and potentially work towards competition.

Where is The Combat Academy Sunderland and is there parking?

The Combat Academy Sunderland is based at Unit 16a Riverside Road, Southwick, Sunderland, SR5 3JG. There is free on-site parking and easy access by public transport. The academy welcomes members from Southwick and nearby North Sunderland communities, including Fulwell, Monkwearmouth, Roker and Castletown.

What Our Members Say

Glen Mackenzie

3 weeks ago

Full member here, the coaches and other member are brilliant, the is no ego, and everyone is welcome,from 4y old.

Glynne Lankford

4 weeks ago

Lovely polite staff, lovely environment

David Essl

3 months ago

I can't recommend The Combat Academy highly enough. The atmosphere is incredibly inclusive, and it genuinely feels like one big family. The coaches,Stuart Roper, Jamie Roper, and Ryan Foster,are exceptional. They're highly experienced, approachable, and know exactly how to challenge you while providing the support you need to improve. Every session is well-structured, motivating, and pushes you towards real advancement, whatever your starting level or advanced. One of the best things about The Combat Academy is the people. The environment encourages you to work hard, support one another, and build lasting friendships along the way. Whether you're looking to get fit, learn kickboxing, or compete, The Combat Academy offers outstanding coaching in a welcoming and motivating environment. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone.

Erin Elliott

3 months ago

Great academy 👍🏿

Sophie Vickerson

3 months ago

Incredible coaches,welcoming environment and endless opportunities to grow learn and become the best version of yourself. I started on opening night with no idea where my journey would go. Now a fighter, assistant coach with the itp programme and i'm not done yet. A truely life changing place with the best people ✨️🌻✨️

Lynne Davidson

3 months ago

Where do I begin? A few years ago I was walking along the river near where I live, and it was really secluded and I remember just feeling so incredibly vulnerable. I already knew Stu (the head coach) and I told him I wanted to learn how to throw just a basic punch or a little self defense, and he suggested I try his kickboxing classes….to which I laughed at the ridiculousness of the idea! I hadn’t long turned 40, I couldn’t fight my way out of a paper bag, what on earth would I do in a kickboxing class?! Absurd! But I did just that, I started doing his classes a couple of times a week, and when he launched The Combat Academy Sunderland I was a member from day one. TCA Sunderland has changed my life…in so many ways! What started as a bit of fun and a hobby, has become so much more. The confidence it has given me, and the belief in myself is incredible. I’m also so much stronger and fitter, and I’m achieving things I never dreamt possible - I made the fight team and have won several gold medals at tournaments, I’m currently 2 belts away from black belt, and I’m also doing the Instructor Training Programme and assisting in/leading classes with the dream of becoming a coach in the future. So not only can I now fight my way out of a paper bag, and not feel remotely ridiculous doing it…I get to help others do the same. It's a pretty amazing feeling! We’ve also built the most amazing community of people here, every single person just wants to help each other, support each other, and push each other. I’ve never experienced anything like it, and I have genuinely made friends for life! Whether you’re there for fitness, to lose a bit of weight, or just for a hobby…or whether you want to see just how far you can go and what you can achieve…whatever your "why", there’s a place on these mats waiting for you, and you’ll be so welcomed :)

Julie Milner

3 months ago

My partner has been going to this gym for a few months and I can see how his confidence has grown and how much he enjoys the sessions.

Andy Robinson

3 months ago

More of a community than simply a gym. Highly recommended

Scott Trembath

3 months ago

Excellent gym coaches all have fantastic experience and expertise Sue, Jamie, Ryan and Sophie are my favourite coaches. Iv only been training since January 26 my confidence has shot through the roof, skills have advanced dramatically, fitness improving, lost my beer belly and can see good physical changes. What I like about this club is the positive start program you get quite technical technics from the start with no pressure no egos great help from the coaches and no pressure to start sparring (which happens in some clubs) first punch to the head and quit which isn't great for confidence. I highly recommend this club fantastic facility.

Abby

3 months ago

I cannot recommend the combat academy enough. The instructors are great and know how to teach in a way that is applicable to everyone, they are super passionate about the sport and they always push you to go to your maximum potential. The atmosphere is amazing and everyone is so friendly. The gym is always so clean and the gloves get sanitised every night.

Anna Bury - Dobrowolska

4 months ago

If you are looking for an academy that teaches real life skills alongside elite martial arts training, this is it. ⁠The Combat Academy Sunderland has been an absolute game-changer for our son.The instructors are fantastic. I have watched my child transform from being incredibly shy to stepping onto the mats with total self-belief, focus, and a hard-working attitude. They truly treat every student with care and respect. It is a safe, positive, and deeply rewarding Highly recommended!

Anthony Chambers

4 months ago

I started this journey through my friend 3 years ago. At that time I was an alcoholic and a drug addict and I was at rock bottom but I just thought I can't get any lower in life I'll try this place that my friend said try. I can honestly say I'm no longer that person who walked through the doors 3 years ago. The coaches guided me and the friends I met in there I made the choice to change my life and I honestly believe it is through the combat academy. The guidance and support of both my coaches and team mates is something I'll carry on thr8the rest of my life . It's the best thing I ever did and it saved my life I recommend that anyone who is feeling down or low come to my club or as I call it my second family and we will change your life ,how do I no this because it changed mine and without the combat academy Sunderland I would probably be dead.. thank you TCAS....

Beverley Boal

4 months ago

The positive start programme for kids has really helped my grandson focus his anger and self discipline following the death of his beloved dad. The coaches are great with the kids.

Kevin Place

4 months ago

d the Combat Academy in Sunderland a year ago at the age of 62, and I can honestly say it has transformed my life. What started as a step into something completely new has become one of the best decisions I have ever made. Over the past year, my fitness, strength, confidence and overall wellbeing have improved massively. I feel healthier, more motivated and more positive in myself. Training has given me focus, discipline and a real sense of achievement, proving that it is never too late to challenge yourself and make meaningful changes. A huge part of that journey has been the support, encouragement and patience shown by Stu, Jamie and Ryu. They are not only excellent coaches but have also become friends. Their guidance has helped me push myself safely, believe in what I can do, and keep turning up even when something felt difficult. The atmosphere at the academy is welcoming, supportive and genuinely inspiring. I have always felt encouraged, never judged, and that has made such a difference. Joining the Combat Academy has improved my fitness, confidence and brought something really positive into my life

Jen Morgan

4 months ago

This place is brilliant. My two young lads have grown in such confidence since starting kickboxing here last year. In particular Ryan has been so wonderful with my kids and they absolutely idolise him and want to be a pro fighter like him when they grow up! (Much to my worry as a mother but I love this for them!) Thankyou to Sru and Jamie too, fantastic martial arts club. Maybe I'll join onee day!!

Ann

8 months ago

Joined in november, and can i say everyone is truly amazing, such a friendly, welcoming place and everyone is super supportive. Only thing is ... wish id discovered this place sooner. Started in ladies and can I say the atmosphere is electric, what an amazing bunch of people throughout all the classes. So glad I was brave enough to beat my anxiety, get out of the car and go in the first time, it can be hard but would say to anyone give it a go.

Peter Willis

2 years ago

First session today and a must say was a very enjoyable experience. Looking forward to Monday and Wednesday night. I would highly recommend this place great people, great instructors which a very passionate and patient if you are struggling. More than happy to help. The price may put some people of but in all honesty I've seen much more price other places. A would say its well worth £69 a month. So yes people want to try something new get fit learn a new form of martial arts ie kickboxing get yourself to the Combat Academy 😁💪❤️

Bal and Bambi Nahal

2 years ago

My 14yr old daughter joined in September and has never looked back since. She has grown in confidence and strength and character....she is so happy....the community and superb coaches are so supportive and help give life skills and build character....she has just received her red belt.....we are sooo proud of her and recommend anyone hesitating to give it a go!

craig neary

2 years ago

This is great place to train all of the instructors are brilliant friendly and approachable they get the best out of you.I signed up after my first session then got my son to sign up it's that good . It's a great environment to learn martial arts and everyone is friendly, probably the best decision I have made this year joining the Combat Academy Sunderland.

Suesie

2 years ago

TCAS has changed my life! I joined in Nov last year...really was the best decision I could have made!! The training routines felt hard at first, but because of the support they gave I have never felt as confident or stress free in my life. I owe this to the dedication of Stu in running the Academy – he has shown belief in me that has built my self esteem and confidence, to Ry who is always a fantastic support, really motivates us and makes every session a great laugh and to Jamie who pushes us for our very best every session and is a great teacher with fab advice on how to perfect our technique. You're made to feel welcomed and comfortable the second you walk through the door, by the team and everyone who attends, they're all amazing and you really feel like you are a part of a community, a family, which motivates you further. I love coming to every class and couldn't imagine where I'd be without them! If you're thinking about it....DO IT! An update since writing this.... After months of my son Jaxon wanting me to teach him at home I finally convinced him to come along and do a trial. Speaking with Stu, I was worried with how shy and held back he was and that they'd probably not get a word out of him let alone any real effort, now I look at his journey and I am so overwhelmed with the positive impact each coach has had on him. From being a very shy, quiet boy to becoming someone who confidently expresses himself, learns to embrace challenges, steps out of his comfort zones, and has found a voice that was once sadly hidden. He idolises Jamie, hangs on every word throughout the classes and beyond, he loves that he will help with any task even the little ones like tightening gloves. He knows that Ry is always happy to help - when he now confidently asks 😁 and likes stu best for explaining things like stance and which way to face. After joining many different activities before this and feeling he never managed to fit in he has found a place he can happily be himself and has been accepted by coaches who give him the time and make him feel he is capable and now he has proudly gained his red belt and I can really see him going the whole way. It has been a journey of personal growth for the both of us and I hope it long continues. I really can't thank all three coaches enough 🥊🖤

Thomas Eastick

2 years ago

great place to fight and is worth your time

Michelle Morgan

2 years ago

After trying every fad diet and trending exercise regime out there, nothing worked, nothing stuck. I attempted to get into a routine of going to the gym, however, feelings of insecurity, anxiety and fear, prevented me from adapting to this. I was about to give up hope and accept that maybe I was just destined to stay unhappy, unfit and miserable. However, destiny had other plans. I spotted a 6 week taster course for kickboxing, advertised on Facebook, and took the chance of trying it. I arrived half an hour earlier than the start of the class, and sat in the car terrified, watching the clock. What did I think I was doing? I’d watched dozens of lean and fit looking women walking into the academy, laughing and giggling with each other. I put my hand on the keys to turn the ignition, start the car and drive away. But something in me made me get out of the car and before I knew it, I was walking through the door. I can honestly pin point this as the moment that changed my life. That was November 2023 and I’ve recently earned my orange belt in kickboxing. Kickboxing has taught me acceptance, discipline (although my coaches may disagree 🤣) and provided me with goals that have pushed me through some really tough times in life. I wouldn’t know where to begin to thank Stu, Ry and Jamie for their continued dedication, empathy guidance and support in each and every session, providing me with a support network, which can only be matched by the outstanding friends that I’ve made there, and continue to welcome. Apologies for the essay, but it’s only the tip of the iceberg. At the combat academy Sunderland, we don’t just “fight”, we fight for each other. See you on the mats 🫡

Gail Walker

2 years ago

What a journey the last 10 months have been! From a nearly 50, unfit person to a 50 year old fitter person who has achieved her orange belt. Coaches Stu, Jamie & Ry are amazing guys who support you at every step and is unwavering. When you don't have the confidence in what your doing they help you through with understanding and patience. They have built the most amazing community/family that is growing & growing. Why don't you join us............😉 You won't regret it!

phillip watson

2 years ago

If you want to learn a skill and defence yourself, this is the place to be. I started 4 months, and it's the best thing I've learned in a long time. It's great for building your confidence and fitness as well as a good laugh. It is well worth the time and effort the team put in always to help with every kick and punch you learn to throw. (Even the bruises or badges of hard work)

Caroline Dodsworth

2 years ago

If you’ve been thinking about trying something new, I can’t recommend The Combat Academy in Sunderland enough. It’s been a life-changer for me, and I’m so excited to keep going on this journey! The team at TCA have supported me, encouraged me and really helped my confidence grow. I've lost a stone so far since starting and have made lots of new friends as well as learning something i never thought I could. Theyve also helped me overcome some servere anxiety and depression recently and brought me out of a pretty dark place. The team make you feel part of the family as soon as you walk through the door. I do ladies and adults classes, there is no BS when you read these other reviews, the support is immeasurable 😍😍😍

Natashaa Appleton

2 years ago

Where too start! My daughter joined this class as a taster on day one. She begged me to join immediately after. Her confidence and love for the sport is outstanding I cannot keep her away from the place! The support from her instructors is phenomenal nothing is too much of an ask. They have the coaching skills and techniques to be able to tailor the training for each individual depending on their own needs to ensure they are getting the best out of the classes which is something you struggle to come across anywhere else. After sitting around watching for months wanting to join I can honestly say it was the friendliness and professionalism I seen displayed class after class that gave me the confidence to give it a go. Now i couldn’t imagine my life without my TCAS community! Never ever did I think I would be comfortable exercising in-front of people as this was always something I was self conscious about! Now I’m uncomfortable if I don’t exercise! Complete different mindset! I’ll always remember not been able to do sit ups and been quite embarrassed about this and my instructor believing in me saying in a few weeks you will be able too! I didn’t ever think I would but guess what I can!!! Biggest achievement of 2024! Thank you for this! I walk away from every class feeling fantastic and energised! Leaves me always wanting more! My mindset towards exercise has been completely changed by the coaches and peers here. Not only my mindset to exercise has changed but my mindset to dealing with struggles out of the academy has been improved! I can walk into that academy in the foulest of moods but guaranteed to walk out feeling brilliant and proud. The instructors ought to be proud of them selves for this community they have built it’s rare to come across something so special! I have made friends for life along the way! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!