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MULTI-AWARD WINNING & 5* RATED

Martial Arts Instructor Insurance That Goes Beyond Just Cover

Comprehensive, Flexible Insurance For Instructors — Backed By A Multi-Award-Winning, Independent Association Trusted By Thousands Across The UK

The Smarter Way To Insure Yourself As A Martial Arts Instructor

At BMABA CIC, we do things differently. Our martial arts instructor insurance isn’t just about ticking a box—it’s a complete, flexible solution designed around what real instructors actually need. Whether you’re a solo instructor teaching in hired halls, leading a team across multiple venues, or running an entire club, our cover moves with you. It’s backed by our governance as a UKAS-audited, FCA-registered, award-winning organisation.

You’ll benefit from full liability protection, optional extras like personal accident, equipment and abuse cover, and access to specialist tools and resources you won’t find anywhere else—safeguarding templates, licensing tools, CPD and more. We understand how instructors operate day-to-day, so we’ve built a policy that supports your work, your growth, and your students—not just your paperwork.

Affordable & Adaptable

Clear, scalable pricing with no extra charges for multiple styles, venues, or student numbers. Whether you’re part-time or full-time, your cover fits your teaching—not the other way around.

Insurance + Membership = One Powerful Package

Your cover includes full access to our instructor membership—CPD training, licensing tools, safeguarding templates, digital certs, and compliance dashboards. It’s a single platform for protection and progress.

Purpose-Built, Martial Arts-Specific Protection

Not just generic insurance. Our policies are crafted specifically for martial arts, with public liability, professional indemnity, student/volunteer cover, and full-contact options—all shaped by real-world experience.

Regulated, Respected & Instructor-Led

We’re governed to ISO 9001:2015 and FCA standards, and trusted by more than 6,500 instructors and volunteers nationwide. We’re self-funded, community-owned, and focused entirely on serving martial artists—not shareholders.

Multi-Award Winning & Nationally Recognised

More Than Insurance — We’re the UK’s Independent Martial Arts Association Backing Your Club

Unlike insurers who offer nothing more than a certificate and a premium, we’re a not-for-profit, community-first organisation built to serve you — not shareholders.

That means when you insure with BMABA CIC, you’re not just ticking a legal box. You’re unlocking a complete ecosystem of tools, training, governance, and support — all included, and all at no extra cost.

Available Cover

Choose The Right Insurance For How You Teach

Whether you’re teaching solo or leading a team, we’ve got you covered with two powerful options. Not sure which suits you best? Use our quick comparison below to explore the difference and get the right fit.

Named Instructor Cover

Best for individual instructors who need cover in their own name.


This option is ideal if you’re a sole instructor, or if each member of your team needs personal cover in their own name that is always tied to them, 24/7. It gives full flexibility to teach under multiple clubs or brands, with personal certification and governance. Wherever you go, regardless of venue, cover follows because you as a named instructor are insured with membership.

Deep-Dive & Learn More

Open Allocation Instructor Insurance

Best for clubs managing cover across multiple instructors.


This club-based option allows you to allocate insurance to one or more named instructors, all under your central membership. Perfect for clubs of any size needing flexibility and simplicity in managing team-wide cover and compliance. It allows multiple instructors to move in and out of cover, based on the total number of active ‘risks’ (classes being taught) at any one time.

Deep-Dive & Learn More

Create A Policy That Matches Your Teaching Style

Select what you need, leave out what you don’t. Join the community.

More Than Just Insurance.

A Not-For-Profit Built To Serve UK Martial Arts.

When you insure through BMABA CIC, you’re not lining the pockets of shareholders or funding an overseas boardroom’s next Christmas party. We’re a UK-based, not-for-profit organisation — and every penny we earn is reinvested back into grassroots martial arts.

That means your policy does more than protect your classes — it powers scholarships for disadvantaged students, supports instructors through hardship, and drives national representation on safeguarding, licensing, and sector reform. From giving clubs a stronger voice in Parliament to funding free trauma-informed training and youth mentoring schemes, we don’t just talk about impact. We deliver it — every day, for thousands of instructors like you.

Multi-Award Winning & Nationally Recognised

Testimonials

What do our members say?

From a £20 Start-Up to a Nationally Recognised Powerhouse — Built From Scratch, Driven By Purpose, that's BMABA CIC.

We’re not here because of government grants, NGB status, or Sport England funding — we’re here because thousands of instructors and clubs believed in a better way. BMABA CIC is entirely independent, self-funded, and not-for-profit. We’ve never taken shortcuts or silver spoons — but we’ve earned recognition at the highest levels of UK sport, including Sport England, DCMS, and national media, purely on merit. Every pound we generate — more than £2,100,000 to date — is reinvested directly into the UK martial arts community.

No gimmicks. No politics. No hidden shareholders.

We’ve built one of the UK’s most trusted martial arts ecosystems from the ground up. That means a comprehensive, style-agnostic governance system. Sector-leading vetting, safeguarding and compliance. Affordable insurance. Free club management software. Dozens of tools, licences, guidance and expert support — all included, all in one place.

We didn’t inherit a legacy. We forged one.

Whether you’re stepping out for the first time or have always been proudly independent, this is your home. To high places by narrow roads isn’t just a slogan — it’s how we got here.

A free club website and even the time with a developer, included.

We provide a complete club management platform with built-in billing, communication tools, student records, and more. And on top of that, we’ll also build you a fully hosted, professionally designed WordPress website — for free. This includes layout design, migration, and ongoing site management, all included as part of your membership.

INDUSTRY FIRST

Our instructor insurance covers the delivery of online lessons – both live broadcast and pre-recorded – as standard.

Whether you’re working with clients remotely or producing online video based content to support an online community, your standard BMABA cover includes this.

INDUSTRY FIRST

We provide completely free temporary instructor cover, to help you manage sickness and holiday cover.

As an association, we provide our clubs with free temporary instructor insurance. This allows instructors to designate stand-in instructors for emergency short term cover (to cover sickness absence etc) as well as pre-planned longer term cover for holidays, maternity and so on. This prevents clubs having to pay for a new annual policy for an instructor who may only be assisting with one or two sessions a year. You can request up to 7 days temporary cover, with longer periods available on discussion, whenever you find yourself short-staffed or unable to make a class. Basic terms apply.

INDUSTRY FIRST

Maternity Cover Package Included As Standard

We know that pregnancy can be a difficult time for many female instructors. For this reason, we provision an industry-first ‘maternity cover’ in which you can pause your instructor insurance and membership for up to 15 months to cover your time away from teaching.

During this time, you’ll remain a member and will continue to have access to our leading resources, community, app and tools. As soon as you’re ready to return to teaching you can simply ‘switch back on’ your remaining cover and membership. For larger clubs, if one of your team should enter maternity leave, you can also assign a stand-in instructor for the remainder of their membership if you don’t want to leave the maternity provision in place.

INDUSTRY FIRST

Paternity Cover Also Inclusive

Dads and life partners should be able to step off the mats for a period after the arrival of a newborn to spend time at home bonding, and supporting Mum. That’s why we now also provide paternity cover as standard.

This allows Father’s and Life Partners up to 6 weeks free of charge membership and insurance extensions to help ensure you’re not out of pocket from the arrival of a newborn (more than you already will be!). Alternatively, we’ll support an 8 week period of temporary membership and insurance if you would prefer to parachute in a relief instructor instead.

INDUSTRY FIRST

Free Cover For Birthday Parties!

We know that more now than ever, clubs are having to be inventive about how to bring funds in. That’s why we’ll endorse Birthday Parties, free of charge.

Provided you’re only providing martial arts orientated games, and there’s no projectiles or inflatables, you can use your BMABA instructor insurance which is provided with membership to cover your delivery of birthday parties.

Abuse Cover As Standard

If you’re falsely or wrongly accused of a safeguarding failure, you’ll often be shocked to find your instructor insurance provides no cover. That’s why we provide £500,000 Abuse Cover as standard, without any extra cost, to help instructors wrongly accused clear their name and defend their club.

INDUSTRY FIRST

Serving Food, Holiday Camps & Products Liability

We’ve worked with our insurer to specifically craft a definition that means our instructors can serve non-cooked food – such as light refreshments, packed lunch boxes, tea and coffee, and so on – all as part of their core cover. 

This sits alongside our already existing products liability cover, that provides cover for goods sold or supplied – such as martial arts uniform or equipment.

FREE Club Management Software Exclusively Built By Us, Just For Our Clubs

All of our members get instant access to our cutting edge club mangeemnt platform. It’s free for all of our members and comes with a tonne of essential and groundbreaking features as standard.

LEARN MORE >>

  • Attendance & Grade Tracking
  • Student Records Management
  • Class Bookings & Timetables
  • Flexible Payments & Memberships
  • Grading Certificates Generator
  • Licence Slip & Documents Generator
  • Customised Branding & Functionality
  • Data Freedom & Ownership
  • Leads & Prospects Management
  • Online Video Training Library
  • 1to1 Tuition Management & Billing
  • Events Management & Ticketing
  • Secure Safeguarding Case Management
  • Manage Events & Competitions
  • Student Portal & Member's Content
  • Concussion & RtP Management
  • Digital Incident Log Book
  • Digital Risk Assessments
  • Task Management
  • Registrations & Waivers
  • Built-In Club Community & Forums
  • Manual Invoicing
  • Accounting & Budgeting
  • Staff Management & Staffroom
  • Calendar & Scheduling
  • Business Management & Planning
  • Easy To Use Parent Accounts

Plus So Much More As Standard So Much More Than Just An Insurance Policy

  • Instructor Certification & Licensing
  • Student Insurance & Licensing
  • Free Instructor Qualifications
  • Safeguarding Qualifications
  • Enhanced DBS Checks
  • First Aid Training
  • Free Club Website
  • Club Management Support
  • Instructor Certification & Licensing
  • Logos & Accreditation Marks
  • Local & National Networking
  • Stock Grading Certificates
  • Free Instructor Qualifications
  • Template Documents & Forms
  • Printing & Design
  • Safeguarding Code For Martial Arts
  • Best Practice Guidance
  • WordPress Hosting
  • a.i For Martial Arts
  • Event Management Checklists
  • Analytics & Tracking Tools
  • Budgeting Apps
  • Professional Webmail
  • Clothing & Uniform
  • Cyber Toolkit
  • Cash Grants & Funding
  • Risk Management Awards
  • Concussion & Head Injury
  • National Advertising
  • Entrepreneur's Support

A Governing Body With Teeth — Backed By Standards, Not Politics

BMABA isn’t just another association — we’re a nationally recognised, independently operated Governing Body with real authority. From ISO 9001 accreditation and Cyber Essentials certification to SCiMA registration, our credentials speak for themselves. We don’t answer to shareholders or committees — we answer to standards, governance, and the martial arts community we serve. That’s why thousands of instructors trust us to represent them at the highest level — with the compliance, legitimacy, and backbone your club deserves.

Disciplines Covered.

We can provide cover for more than 180 disciplines and styles, and this list can be revised with our insurer on request where-ever a genuine discipline or style requires endorsing.

Aiki JuJitsu
Aikido
Aiuchi Ju Jitsu
Aiwakai Karate Do
Ashihara Karate
American Kempo
Angampora
Arnis
Atemi
Ba Ji Quan and Tai Chi
Baguazhang
Bajiquan
Bajutsu
Bando
Bartitsu
Bataireacht (Irish Stick Fighting)
BMABA Approved Disciplines & Styles
Bojitsu
Bojuka
Bojutsu
Bokator
Bokh (Mongolian Wrestling)
Brazilian Ju Jitsu (BJJ)
British Combat Judo
British Folkstyle Wrestling
Budokon
Bujinkan Budo
Bujinkan Budo Tai Jutsu
Bujutsu
Bushi Kempo
Bushido
Butthan
Canne de Combat
Capoeira
Catch Wrestling
Ch`uan Fa
Ch`uan Shu
Chambarra
Cheibi Gad-Ga
Chi Gong
Chinese Kickboxing
Choy Li Fut
Choi Kwang Do
Close Protection Training
Close Quarter Combat (CQB)
Combat Hapkido
Combat Hopak
Combat Sambo
Conflict Management
Coreeda
Cuong Nhu
Dacayana Eskrima
Daido Juku Kudo
Daito-ryu
Daito-ryu Aiki Jujitsu
Dambe
Danzan Ryu
Drunken Fist (Zui Quan)
Dumog
Eagle Claw Kung Fu
Enshin Kaikan
Escrima
Fencing
Feng Shou
Filipino Martial Arts
Fitness Orientated Kickboxing
Folkstyle Wrestling
Freestyle Jujitsu
Freestyle Karate
Freestyle Karate Jutsu
Freestyle Kung Fu
Freestyle Kickboxing
Freestyle Taekwondo
Fu Jow Pai
Gatka
Glima
Goju Kai Karate Do
Goju Ryu Karate
Gongkwon Yusul
Goshin Jutsu
Goshin Ryu Kempo Jujitsu
Haidong Gumdo
Hakuda
Han Mu Do
Hanbojutsu
Hapkido
Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA)
Historical Fencing
Hojojitsu
Hsing-i
Hsing-yi
Hung Ga
Huyen Langlon
Hwa Rang Do
Hwarang-do
Iaido
Iaijutsu
Icho-Ryu
Iinkai Judo
Isshin-Ryu Karate
Itto-Ryu
Jado Kuin Do
Japanese Shotokan Karate
Jeet Kune Do
Jikiden Eishin Ryu Iaido
Jojutsu
Judo
Jujitsu
Jun Fan Gung Fu
Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do
Jutsu
Kaiai Jitsu
Kajukenbo
Kalaripayattu
Kali
Kali Silat
KAPAP
Karate
Karate Jutsu
Karate-Do
Karate-Jitsu
Kaze Arashi Ryu
Kempo
Kempo Jujitsu
Kempo Ryu
Ken Fat
Kendo
Kenjutsu
Kenpo
Kenshin Karate
Keysi
Ki Aikido
Kick Boxing
Ko Budo
Kobudo
Kokondo
Korean Kickboxing
Koryu Uchinadi
Krabi-Krabong
Krav Maga
Kuk Sool Won
Kumdo
Kung Fu
Kung Fu To’a
Kyokushinkai Karate
Kyudo
Lathi Khela
Lau Gar
Lau Gar Kickboxing
Lau Gar Kung Fu
Lee Style Tai Chi
Leopard Kung Fu (Bao Quan)
Lerdrit
Maarlisk
Malla Yuddha
Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP)
Martial Arts Based Fitness
Martial Arts Wrestling
Military Martial Arts
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
Monkey Kung Fu (Hou Quan)
Muay Boran
Muay Thai
Nearu Martial Art
Nihon Goshin Ju Jitsu
Ninjitsu
Ninpo Taijutsu
Ninjutsu
Niten Ichi-Ryu
North West Chinese Kickboxing
Okichitaw
Pa Kua
Pa Qua
Panantukan
Pankration
Personal Protection
Physical Intervention
Pradal Serey
Qi Kwan Do
Qwan Ki Do
Quan Fa
Reality Based Martial Arts
Russian Martial Arts
Sanjuro Martial Arts
Sankukai Karate
Sanshou
Sarak
Sarit
Savate
Seiki Juku Karate
Self Defence
Self Protection
Shaolin Kempo Karate
Shaolin Kung Fu
Shaolin-Tsu Kempo
Shintaido
Shito-Ryu Karate
Shindo Jinen Ryu
Shorinji Kempo
Shorin-Ryu Karate
Shotokan Goju Ryu
Shotokan Karate
Shuai Chiao
Shuai Jiao
Shukokai
Shukokai Karate
Shuri-Ryu
Sibpalki
Sikaran
Silambam
Silat
Sokudo
Soo Bahk Do
Sport Boxing (Martial Arts Based)
Sport Karate
Sport Sambo
Ssireum
Submission Wrestling
Sumai
Sumo
Sulkido
Systema
Taekkyeon
Taekwondo
Tai Chi
Tai Chi Chuan
Tai Jutsu
Taido
Taijutsu
Tang Soo Do
Thai Boxing
Thang-ta
Tiger Claw Kung Fu (Fu Jow Pai)
Tora Kai
Traditional Aikido
Traditional Italian Martial Arts
Traditional Karate
Traditional Wado Ryu
Unarmed Combat
Viet Vo Dao
Wado Ryu Karate
Wing Chun
Wing Chun Kung Fu
Wing Tsun
World Tang Soo Do
Wushu
Yoseikan Budo
Zen Shin Karate

Weapons Included

You won’t pay a penny more for including up to nearly 100 training weapons and aids. We can also provide standalone live blade insurance, should you need it for test cutting and demonstrations.

3 Section Staff
6″ Staff
Bamboo Sword
Baton
Blunted Metal Sabre
Bo
Bo Staff
Bokken
Bow & Arrow**
Broadsword (Blunted)
Broadsword (Wooden)
Butterfly Knives (No Live Blades)
Cane
Chain
Chain Whip
Clubs
Clubs (Wooden)
Cosh (Blunted Blade Only)
Dagger (Blunted Blade Only)
Dan Bong (Short Sticks)
Dummy Weapons
Escrima
Escrima Sticks
Fan
Foam Batons
Foam Weapons
Focus Mitts
Guns (Plastic)
Habo Staffs
Hanbo
Iaito (Practice Only)
Janbo
Jo
Jo Staff
Jutte/Jitte
Kali Sticks
Kama (Blunted Blade Only)
Katana (Blunted Blade Only)
Kendo Shinai
Kenpo Sticks
Knives (Blunted Metal)
Knives (Plastic)
Knives (Rubber)
Knives (Wooden)
Kubotan
Kunai (Blunted Blade Only)
Leather Whip
Naginta (Blunted Blade)
Nawa
Nunchaku
Padded Sticks
Padded Weapons
Plastic Bottle
Plastic Weapons (No Live Blades)
Pole
Practice Sword (No Live Blades)
Qiang
Rice Flail
Rokushaku Bo (Japanese Staff)
Rope
Rubber Sticks
Rubber Weapons
Safety Weapons
Sai
Shaolin Staff
Shields
Shinai (Blunted Blade Only)
Shoriken
Shuko (Demonstration Only)
Spear
Staff
Sticks
Swords (Blunted Metal)
Swords (Plastic)
Swords (Rubber)
Swords (Wooden)
Tai Chi Sword (Blunted Blade Only)
Tambo
Tanto
Tessen
Tiger Fork
Togakure Bokken
Tonfa
Training Knife (No Live Blades)
Training Swords (No Live Blades)
Training Weapons (No Live Blades)
Wing Chun Pole
Wooden Shou
Wooden Weapons (No Live Blades)
Led By The Multi-Award Winning Social Entrepreneur & Men's Health Coach Of The Year

We were set up in 2020 by Giovanni Soffietto – a then unknown twenty year old who had grown up in poverty. Armed with just £20 of ‘start up capital’ but a life-time of passion for martial arts, BMABA has today become the multi-award winning organisation renowned for professionalism and for being a major industry disruptor.

meet the team

Powered by our people

GIOVANNI

Founder & CEO

KIRSTY

Strategic Management

niki

Head Of Operations

Catherine

Customer Services

BELLA

Membership Services

RAINER

WordpressbyBMABA Lead

ANNA

Administration

Christina

Administration

JOE

Digital Lead

CATHIE

Safeguarding

Tharsh

Lead Developer

AIMEE

Executive Support

ELIZABETH

Dispatch

Club Management Software Included Free

We provide all of our members with free access to Club Manager by BMABA – a completely bespoke club management system for martial arts clubs, built by BMABA, the martial arts experts. 

From online payments and attendance tracking to belts, gradings, a website and club shop – it’s included as part of the price.

Everything Your Club Will Ever Need To Grow, All Inclusive

From template documents like assumption of risk forms and safeguarding policies, to SEO platforms, AI and Budgeting apps. Safeguarding advice to qualifications, concussion training through to First Aid awards. There’s so much more included at no extra cost with your BMABA membership, served in-conjunction with your instructor insurance.

Constantly rated 5 stars by our members.

Expert Support You Can Count On

We’re a professionally-run, award-winning organisation with dedicated offices and experienced, trained staff. Our in-house policy specialist combines years of insurance broking experience with a lifelong martial arts background — spanning both traditional and modern disciplines. That means you get expert help that truly understands the practical realities of teaching, as well as the technical side of insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of instructor insurance does BMABA offer?

BMABA offers two professional-grade instructor insurance models: Named Instructor Insurance, which insures an individual instructor by name, and Open Allocation Instructor Insurance, which provides flexible cover that can be rotated across multiple eligible instructors within a club. Both models include full access to core cover and optional upgrades and are designed to accommodate both solo instructors and larger teaching teams.

What’s the difference between Named and Open Allocation Instructor Insurance?

Named cover applies to one specific instructor and is ideal for solo operators or instructors who want a clear, named certificate for facility hire or public contracts. Open Allocation is designed for clubs with multiple instructors — for example, 3 active covers shared across a team of 5. It allows flexibility, provided no more than the covered number are actively instructing at the same time, and all are pre-vetted and registered.

Is instructor insurance mandatory to join BMABA?

No. You can join as a member without holding insurance. We offer standalone membership options for those who already have cover elsewhere or who teach under an umbrella organisation. However, to benefit from our insurance (which includes extensive governance and vetting), you must hold an active membership.

Is BMABA’s instructor insurance available as a standalone policy?

No. All insurance policies must be held alongside an active BMABA membership. This is fundamental to our model: we ensure only properly vetted, insured, and competent instructors access cover. It also enables us to offer governance oversight and compliance support, which makes the cover stronger and more defensible in a claim scenario.

What cover is included with instructor insurance by default?

Our instructor cover includes:

  • £5,000,000 Public Liability Insurance as standard (upgradeable to £10m)

  • £1,000,000 Products Liability
  • £1,000,000 Professional Indemnity Insurance

  • £500,000 Abuse Extension Cover

  • Access to optional add-ons like Personal Accident, Equipment Cover, and Live Blade Insurance

All policies are underwritten by UK-regulated insurers, and our team can assist with claim scenarios or technical clarifications.

Do I need to hold a black belt or Dan grade to be insured?

Not necessarily. While many insurers require traditional grades, BMABA allows for equivalency recognition. If you can demonstrate credible experience, time-served instructing, and peer/club validation — we may accept this as equivalent to a black belt. This ensures instructors from disciplines like MMA or Krav Maga aren’t excluded unfairly.

Can assistant instructors or volunteers be covered?

Yes. Assistants and volunteers can be insured either by taking Named Insurance or by being registered as part of an Open Allocation model. They must still undergo vetting to ensure they meet our minimum standards, including appropriate safeguarding and supervision.

What if I can’t provide formal proof of grade or certification?

BMABA offers a Black Belt Equivalency Pathway. You’ll need to provide contextual evidence — including witness testimonials, teaching history, and training logs. We understand many instructors operate outside formal grading systems, and we evaluate each application case-by-case.

Am I covered to teach outdoors or in non-traditional settings?

Yes. Our policies cover instruction in a wide range of settings — including parks, private homes, community centres, and commercial studios — as long as you follow appropriate risk assessment and safeguarding protocols. We understand modern instructors need flexibility.

Are one-to-one and private lessons covered?

Yes. You are fully covered for teaching private sessions, whether online or in person, providing your instruction follows your declared discipline and you meet safeguarding requirements. This includes personal training, virtual coaching, or small group instruction.

Can I teach overseas or while travelling?

Unfortunately all cover is UK only.

Are weapons and contact sparring included in my policy?

Yes — traditional weapon use (e.g., bo staff, sai, nunchaku, katana) and contact sparring, including full-contact formats, are included if they are part of your declared syllabus. As long as safety protocols are followed, you’re covered — unlike many general sports policies that exclude these risks.

What is Abuse Extension Cover and why is it so important?

Abuse Extension is a rare and critical safeguard. It covers legal defence costs if an instructor is accused of inappropriate conduct — even if the claim is ultimately unfounded. Many policies exclude this entirely, leaving instructors personally liable. We include £500,000 of cover by default for peace of mind.

Do you offer Live Blade Insurance?

Yes — but only on a controlled, pre-approved basis. It covers live cutting demonstrations (e.g. Tameshigiri, Iaido, HEMA) where sharp blades are used under strict safety supervision. Activities must be declared, risk assessed, and approved before cover is granted. Live Blade cover needs to be added on after your membership and core insurance is live, and starts at £100.00 for instructors on top of any regular insurance and membership fees.

Is BMABA cover suitable for high-risk styles like MMA, BJJ, Krav Maga?

Absolutely. We specialise in real-world, high-intensity martial arts — including full-contact formats and competitive sparring. Unlike many mainstream insurers, we understand and underwrite for styles like BJJ, No-Gi, MMA, and self-defence-based arts.

Can I claim if I’m injured while teaching?

Yes — Personal Accident Cover is available as an optional upgrade. It provides predefined payouts for accidental injuries you suffer during teaching or training, regardless of who’s at fault. This includes temporary disability, dental injuries, and physiotherapy.

Can I freeze my insurance if I stop teaching for a while?

No — policies are set annually. However, Open Allocation Insurance allows clubs or teams to manage active instructor numbers more flexibly. If you’re not teaching for a period, you can rotate cover to another eligible instructor in your team.

Do I need to hold a coaching qualification to be insured?

It’s not required, but strongly encouraged. To support best practice, we include access to BMABA’s own Coaching Qualifications (Level 1 & 2) free with all memberships, helping you meet insurer expectations and modern safeguarding standards.

Can I change my instructors mid-policy on Open Allocation?

Yes — that’s the purpose of Open Allocation. You can register as many instructors as you like; just ensure no more than your insured count are instructing simultaneously, and that all named instructors meet vetting and governance requirements.

It’s worth noting that memberships aren’t transferable, meaning once you assign an instructor to a membership, it’s then considered ‘spent’ so you will need to add on a new membership to add someone new to the cover, but this can be done on a pro-rata basis.

Am I restricted to a single venue or club?

No. You’re covered across all UK venues, clubs, and settings where you are instructing within the scope of your declared style(s). Whether you freelance, subcontract, or teach at multiple gyms, your cover remains valid.

What happens if I let my policy lapse?

You’ll receive renewal notifications. If you allow your cover to lapse, there is no retroactive protection — you must reapply. Any teaching conducted while uninsured would not be covered. This is why we encourage early renewal and policy awareness.

Will BMABA insurance meet third-party requirements like councils or schools?

Yes. All cover is underwritten by regulated UK insurers, and policies are accompanied by formal certificates of insurance. These meet the documentation and assurance needs of local authorities, schools, leisure centres, and commercial landlords.

Join Online Today

Join more than 6,500 instructors already protected by our award-winning, not-for-profit cover — built exclusively for martial arts.

Multi-Award Winning & Nationally Recognised

Best Sports Governing Body Initiative

Winners

Best Association Serving Sport

Finalists

Best COVID Response for Sports

Finalists

Sports Diversity Award

Finalists

Sports Association of the Year

Bronze

Best Sporting Association in the UK

Winners

Best Sport & Recreation Entrepreneur

Winners

Best Association Website

Winners

Association of the Year

Finalists

Executive Director of the Year Finalists

Finalists

Best Use Of Technology Award

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Best Sport & Recreation Entrepreneur

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UK Business Leader of the Year

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Entrepreneur Of The Year

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Director Of The Year

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Young Entrepreneur Of The Year

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Not sure if we're the right fit for you?
We're here to answer any questions with impartial, expert advice.

Join More Than 6,500 Like-Minded Instructors & Clubs

Representing Over 100,000 Members Across 94 Disciplines

A completely free club management system.

We know. What’s the catch? Well, we’re a trade body for martial arts, not a profit-hungry corporation. We know how important the latest tech is in keeping our clubs kicking and – ultimately – that keeps us going too!

FREE Club Management Software Exclusively Built By Us, Just For Our Clubs

ClubManager by BMABA is our in-house, professionally developed Club Management solution. It’s free for all of our members and comes with a tonne of essential and groundbreaking features as standard.

LEARN MORE >>

  • Attendance & Grade Tracking
  • Student Records Management
  • Class Bookings & Timetables
  • Flexible Payments & Memberships
  • Grading Certificates Generator
  • Licence Slip & Documents Generator
  • Customised Branding & Functionality
  • Data Freedom & Ownership
  • Leads & Prospects Management
  • Online Video Training Library
  • 1to1 Tuition Management & Billing
  • Events Management & Ticketing
  • Secure Safeguarding Case Management
  • Manage Events & Competitions
  • Student Portal & Member's Content
  • Concussion & RtP Management
  • Digital Incident Log Book
  • Digital Risk Assessments
  • Task Management
  • Registrations & Waivers
  • Built-In Club Community & Forums
  • Manual Invoicing
  • Accounting & Budgeting
  • Staff Management & Staffroom
  • Calendar & Scheduling
  • Business Management & Planning
  • Easy To Use Parent Accounts

Membership with BMABA is so much more than just a piece of paper.

From template grading certificates and draft documents through to a free club website and national club listings. Whether it be advice on club structure and marketing or membership marks and qualifications. DBS checks, first aid qualifications, coaching certificates, instructor licenses, insurance, business plans, equipment, graphics – even club management platforms and web hosting. We can cover it under just one simple, affordable membership.

Founded in 2012 by the now Multi-Award Winning Social Entrepreneur & Life-Long Martial Artist, Giovanni Soffietto.

Frustrated by a governing structure in martial arts that failed to look forward to the future, Giovanni setup BMABA in 2012. Aged just 20 with only £20 of ‘start-up capital’ BMABA comes from humble beginnings.

Focused on professional standards and ethics rather than belts and titles, BMABA boasts the pedigree of a life-long martial arts expert come award winning social entrepreneur as it’s Chief Executive Officer. It’s fair to say we’re well qualified and backed by an industry giant. We now turnover more than £1,000,000 and support tens of thousands of martial artists across the UK.

"BMABA give away belts for cash"

"BMABA don't care about safeguarding"

"BMABA are so unprofessional"

Over the past 15 years we’ve heard so much of this sort of nonsense from the ‘old boys’ associations.

The truth couldn’t be further than their lazy, fear-filled assertions. We’re a disruptor, renowned for our professionalism and governance, but they wouldn’t want you to know that. 

In an industry so full of cowboys, we don’t expect you to take our word for any of this. Dig beneath the surface, and see for yourself.

Membership To BMABA Is So Much More Than Just A Piece Of Paper

We have always been focused on providing clubs with everything they need under a single membership, and our range of resources, tools and features delivers exactly that.

From template grading certificates and documents through to a free club website and national club listings. Whether it be advice on club structure and marketing or membership marks and qualifications. DBS checks, first aid qualifications, coaching certificates, instructor licenses, insurance, business plans, equipment, graphics – you named it, we cover it under just one simple, affordable membership.

Club Colours Award That Exceeds Sport England’s Safeguarding Standards

Our Club Colours Award process not only issues a ‘school of excellence’ mark to clubs who hold it, but the safeguarding oversight has been mapped against SCiMA and then approved by Sport England which allows us to automatically issue the ‘Safeguarding Code in Martial Arts’ award to every club that holds our ‘tick mark’. We receive zero funding to run this, but we ensure it’s completely free for every single BMABA member to access.

We’re the only independent association who can offer this.

Certification, Insurance & Evidence With You, On The Go.

Tired of waiting weeks for hand-written documents in the post? Access your BMABA instructor’s documentation, student license slips, insurance certification and even your own submitted DBS checks, first aid qualifications and other criteria 24/7.

Our systems provide you with access to all of this documentation on the go. Be it from a mobile, our app or a desktop – so you can access, download and share your certification when you need it most.

BMABA App

Available for free on Android and OS devices, the BMABA app allows instructors, volunteers and assistant instructors to access the latest updates, resources, guidance, community, forums and loads more. Bring your association, along with all your digital certification – with you in your pocket.

Industry Renowned Qualifications & Training

We’re always building on our library of industry-leading awards and qualifications. This includes our Level 1 and Level 2 instructor qualifications, our Safeguarding & Lead Safeguarding qualifications, our First Aid Award, Club Colours Award, Club Management Qualifications, Risk Management, Concussion & Head Injury, and so much more. 

All online and accessible 24/7 from any device.

The Ultimate, FREE, Club Management Platform

We provide all members with access to exclusive student management software which will help you track attendance, see student details, show your class schedule, accept online bookings, run a club shop, update your members with club news, run a members’ only area and so much more. All completely free of charge.

From SEO, AI and Analytics through to content publishing, class scheduling, online incident log book entries and so, so much more. It’s all inclusive at no extra cost making BMABA the industry leaders in affordable tech solutions for martial arts clubs.

£1,000 Of Tools, Rolled Into One Affordable Membership

From template grading certificates, safeguarding policies and club registration forms to our online logo designer, club accreditation marks and premium club finder listings. BMABA Club Cash Grants and designated safeguarding lead services through to marketing plans, SEO platforms, AI software, Wordpress websites, web hosting and so, so much more. It’s all inclusive and wrapped up into your membership fee so you can access more services with us than anywhere else without paying a penny more.

We Grant Up To £500 To Help Clubs Make Charitable Impact & Grow

Our BMABA Club Grants Scheme donates up to £500 per grant to clubs up and down the UK of all sizes. It helps to make a difference to clubs who want to make a charitable impact, purchase new kit to offer safer classes, or need emergency support in times of crisis. 

We’ve funded research into safeguarding failures in MMA, classes for women and girls at risk of abuse, scholarships for children living in poverty, new mats and punchbags for clubs wanting to safer classes, and so much more.

All self funded. From our profits, back into our community.

Ready to take your club to new heights?

It's in our slogan; "To High Places By Narrow Roads".

Plus So Much More As Standard Just Some Of The Tools & Resources We Offer

  • Instructor Certification & Licensing
  • Student Insurance & Licensing
  • Free Instructor Qualifications
  • Safeguarding Qualifications
  • Enhanced DBS Checks
  • First Aid Training
  • Free Club Website
  • Club Management Support
  • Instructor Certification & Licensing
  • Logos & Accreditation Marks
  • SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) Platform
  • Local & National Networking
  • Stock Grading Certificates
  • Free Instructor Qualifications
  • Template Documents & Forms
  • Printing & Design
  • Safeguarding Code For Martial Arts
  • Best Practice Guidance
  • Wordpress Hosting
  • a.i For Martial Arts
  • Event Management Checklists
  • Safeguarding Model Policies
  • Analytics & Tracking Tools
  • Budgeting Apps
  • Professional Webmail
  • Clothing & Uniform
  • Cyber Toolkit
  • Cash Grants & Funding
  • Risk Management Awards
  • Concussion & Head Injury
  • National Advertising
  • Entrepreneur's Support
  • Plus So Much More

Not entirely convinced?

Try us for free for 12 months, with no obligation.

There’s absolutely no obligation to commit beyond 12 months. You’ll be able to explore what we offer, our member’s area, all of our licensing options and get a better feel for the BMABA’s service without any obligation to become a full member. We genuinely believe the best way to find out if we’re any good is to try us yourself.

Thinking of switching?

We know there’s a lot to think about, and we can help.

We have absolutely no interest in enticing you to switch to BMABA if we’re not the right fit. We know that won’t last and isn’t good for you or us. Instead, we can offer a confidential switching process to help you price up whether or not it’s worth while, whilst also getting answers to any questions you might have.

We have a real team based out of a real office.

There’s nothing wrong with smaller martial arts associations. In fact, we think it’s good for competition and variety. Unfortunately too many are one-man bands run from kitchen tables, and not professional set ups with staff.

HQ

BMABA. Suite I & K, The Old Bakery, Golden Square, Petworth. GU28 0AP

The UK's Leading and Largest Multi-Style Trade Body For Martial Arts

BMABA CIC T/A British Martial Arts & Boxing Association
Registered Address: The Old Bakery. Golden Square, Petworth. GU28 0AP
Phone: 01798306546  | EMail: info@bmaba.org.uk

BMABA CIC. Reg. 10676965.
ICO Registration Number: ZA241917
Social Enterprise License No: 11677
VAT Registration Number: 373018216

Emergency Services, Armed Forces and NHS front line staff are all entitled to 10% discounts across all of our memberships for live. This applies to all ex-serving armed forces and emergency workers too.

 

BMABA CIC is proud to hold the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management certification, issued under UKAS accreditation (Certificate No. 267261) — the highest level of independent validation for quality management systems in the UK.

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