ACS MAGFA is a fitness centre, martial arts club, and self-defence school located in Luton, Bedfordshire. The acronym stands for “martial arts, games, and football activities,” which reflects the diverse range of offerings at the facility.
The club caters to both children and adults, with specific programmes designed for different age groups. For kids aged 7–14 years, ACS MAGFA offers jujitsu-based martial arts classes that incorporate a comprehensive syllabus encompassing various martial skills and legally defined self-defence tuition. Adults can also participate in the same jujitsu-based curriculum but with added content from Geoff Thompson's Real Combat System.
In addition to martial arts training, ACS MAGFA also provides legally defined self-defence tuition based on current legislation governing the use of force and pre-emption. They offer a specific class called ACS KEWAP (Knife and Edged Weapons Awareness Programme), which is a classroom-based session that includes both practical and legal elements.
For those interested in fitness classes, ACS MAGFA offers a range of options. Their Boxercise class combines boxing skills with exercises and is currently only available in schools. They also have general fitness classes that include their Boxercise sessions as well as special high-intensity classes for those seeking an extra challenge.
Furthermore, ACS MAGFA provides football coaching, specifically for the ladies of the Luton Town Walking Football Club. This adds another dimension to their offerings and allows individuals to engage in physical activity through a different avenue.
A brief history of ACS MAGFA reveals that it began as ACS Martial Arts in 2008, in collaboration with the Dunstable-based International Atemi Jujitsu. Over time, the organisation expanded its teaching portfolio and recognised the need for a dedicated facility to accommodate its growing number of classes and services. Thus, in 2014, ACS MAGFA was established as an umbrella title for all their offerings and began renting studio space in Taylor St Luton. In 2017, they relocated to new premises in Charles St Luton and continued to expand their services.
Currently, ACS MAGFA operates out of a single rented hall, where they focus on teaching jujitsu and self-protection principles. They remain committed to their core principles of “awareness, confidence, and self-esteem,” which they instil in their students through their jujitsu classes. They emphasise that martial arts should involve physical contact and strive to prepare their members for real-world situations.
Overall, ACS MAGFA provides a comprehensive range of fitness, martial arts, and self-defence services to individuals in Luton and the surrounding areas. With a focus on teaching effective self-protection skills while promoting physical fitness and personal development, they offer a valuable resource for those looking to enhance their physical and mental well-being.