Think You Know Why Clubs Don’t Join? Think Again
We’re setting the record straight on the most common misconceptions about BMABA — and why thousands of instructors choose to join us once they know the truth.
MISCONCEPTION #1
“BMABA is just about insurance or politics.”
ACTUALLY
We’re an independent, not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) that uses martial arts as a force for good.
Yes, we include comprehensive insurance — but that’s just one part of a much broader support system.
From digital tools and safeguarding frameworks to national programmes for inclusion, mental health, and youth violence prevention, our model puts grassroots clubs at the heart of real, measurable impact. And we’re proudly apolitical — our agenda is raising standards, not raising noise.
MISCONCEPTION #2
“I’d be lost in red tape, with no freedom.”
ACTUALLY
Joining BMABA doesn’t mean surrendering your independence — it means strengthening it. We don’t micromanage or impose one-size-fits-all policies.
Our gold-tier tools like Club Colours and Regulation Ready are there if you want them, not because you have to use them. You remain in control of your club’s ethos, style, and direction — we’re here to support, not to suffocate. Think of us as the safety net beneath your autonomy, not the rope around it.
MISCONCEPTION #3
“All governing bodies have hidden fees or upsells.”
ACTUALLY
We’ve designed our membership to be fully transparent and all-inclusive — no hidden extras, no sneaky upsells.
From digital club management tools and safeguarding audits to access to funding, qualifications, and even verified ecological impact — it’s all part of your membership.
You can join completely free or renew affordably, knowing you’re getting real value without the usual strings attached. We exist to support clubs, not to drain them.
MISCONCEPTION #4
“Joining doesn’t mean I’m part of real change.”
ACTUALLY
Every BMABA membership directly powers real-world impact — from trauma-informed coaching and safeguarding leadership to national anti-violence campaigns and verified environmental work. When your club joins, you’re not just gaining support — you’re helping fund clean water access, plant thousands of trees, promote female empowerment, and tackle serious youth violence. This is change, built from the mats up.
MISCONCEPTION #5
“This feels like ego-led martial arts politics.”
ACTUALLY
We’re proudly politics-free, ego-free, and entirely mission-led. As a regulated CIC, we’ve locked away over £1.6 million in value to ensure everything we do serves the martial arts community — not personal titles or profits. BMABA exists to empower instructors and clubs, not to play political games. The focus stays on ethics, impact, and community — always.
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FREE MEMBERSHIP
See For Yourself — With A Year’s Free Membership
We don’t need to oversell it — we’d rather you just experience it. Join BMABA today with a full year of free Affiliate Membership and see exactly how our support, standards, and social impact work in practice. No hidden fees. No contracts.
