Welcome to CRA
Founded in 2004 by current head coach Chris Rees, what started off as a single club running classes twice per week has now evolved to an ever-growing network of clubs all over South Wales and Bristol, with HQ based in Swansea running both BJJ and MMA programmes. CRA was originally an official Gracie Barra club, one of the world's leading
Brazilian JiuJitsu organisations, which was overseen by multiple time world champion Braulio Estima. In 2011 Chris was promoted to the rank of Black Belt by Braulio Estima becoming the first person in Wales to achieve this rank. He has since produced several black belts including regional and national champions. The academy itself boasts champions in both BJJ and MMA at the highest echelons of the sport. In 2015, Chris partnered with elite BJJ athlete Ashley Williams who, at the time, was a brown belt and fresh out of Cardiff University. This partnership was formed to further grow and improve the academy. Ashley is now a Black Belt and is a high level competitor having competed in competitions like EBI. At present, we offer a variety of programmes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, submission grappling and Mixed Martial Arts. We cater for everyone whether you are looking to develop your capacity for self-defence, compete in any of the aforementioned sports, or simply get fit. From high level competitors to hobbyist and from 3 yrs old and up, we will have something suitable for you. The gym maintains a fun and friendly atmosphere for you to learn in and you won’t be disappointed in joining the CRA team.