Built on discipline, driven by community, and grounded in one of the most respected BJJ lineages in the UK.
Chris Last served for 24 years as a Royal Marine Commando – one of the most demanding military forces in the world. During that time, he developed an unshakable foundation of mental and physical discipline, leadership, and the ability to perform under pressure.
Over the last decade, Chris has dedicated himself to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with the same commitment that defined his military career. He continues to train under the Chamberlain Brothers at RGA Bristol, earning his brown belt and joining their coaching team – a lineage that traces directly back to BJJ legend Roger Gracie himself.
His passion for the sport has taken him around the world. He has trained across the United States, Thailand and most recently Brazil – immersing himself in the different training cultures, coaching styles, and technical approaches that have shaped his well-rounded understanding of the art.
In November 2025, Chris opened Samurai Fitness BJJ Academy at the Studio in Yatton, North Somerset. His vision was simple; bring high level BJJ instruction to his local community in a welcoming, ego-free environment. He brings to every class the same qualities that defined his 24 years of service – precision, patience, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the people he trains.
As a qualified Coach & Mentor, Chris teaches with a clarity and structure that makes even the most complex techniques accessible to complete beginners – while still offering the depth that experienced practitioners seek.
In BJJ, lineage matters. Where you trained, and who trained the people who trained you, speaks directly to the quality and authenticity of your instruction.
Founder of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Gracie Family Patriarch
Founder of Gracie Barra
10× BJJ World Champion
Roger Gracie Academy Bristol
Head Coach, Samurai Fitness BJJ
Roger Gracie is widely considered the greatest competitive BJJ practitioner of all time — a 10-time World Champion, twice World Absolute Champion, and multiple-time ADCC champion. The Roger Gracie Academy, headquartered in London with an affiliate in Bristol, carries his name and his teaching philosophy. Training under that lineage means training with techniques and principles that have been tested and refined at the highest level of the sport.
Learn more about BJJ lineage at BJJ Heroes or visit the Roger Gracie Academy.
When Samurai Fitness opened its doors in November 2025, the story caught the attention of BBC Radio Bristol. Chris appeared on Extra Time with Matt Faulkner to talk about the gym, his background in the Royal Marines, and why he brought BJJ to Yatton.
The feature highlighted what makes Samurai Fitness different: an academy founded not just on technical excellence, but on a genuine commitment to building a local community around the sport.
Find us at @samuraifitness2025 on Instagram for training updates, technique tips, and behind-the-scenes content.
Three pillars that define how we teach, train, and grow as a community.
Technique is the foundation of everything. We prioritise precision and understanding over intensity. A well-executed technique always beats brute strength — and that's what we teach.
We're more than just a club. The connections built on the mat create a support network that extends far beyond training. Ego stays at the door. Respect is non-negotiable.
BJJ is a lifelong pursuit. There is always more to learn, always room to improve. We train with a growth mindset — celebrating progress at every level.
Samurai Fitness BJJ trains at Unit 1 & 2, Market Industrial Estate, Yatton, Bristol, BS49 4RF — a purpose-built training space that provides a clean, safe, and well-equipped environment for BJJ practice.
Yatton is a market town in North Somerset, well connected to Bristol and the surrounding area. The gym is easily accessible whether you're coming from Clevedon, Nailsea, Weston-super-Mare, or Bristol itself.
The training space is matted, properly lit, and maintained to the standards you'd expect from a professionally run academy. You'll feel the difference from your very first session.
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