Empire Defense & Fitness Inc in Albany, NY is a top-tier martial arts school offering a range of classes, including Muay Thai, Krav Maga, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Customers highly praise the gym for its knowledgeable and engaging instructors, particularly Alan, Cheryl, and Aaron. The friendly, family-like atmosphere and flexible class schedules attract students of all ages and fitness levels. Empire's clean facilities and commitment to personal development make it a standout choice for anyone looking to improve their fitness and self-defense skills. Month-to-month plans ensure flexibility without long-term commitment.
Classes are both fun and challenging, creating an environment where students feel motivated and supported. Members frequently report significant improvements in strength, confidence, and overall well-being. The small community vibe encourages camaraderie, making it more than just a place to train. However, prospective members should note that class availability may be limited certain days of the week, and the pricing is slightly higher compared to other gyms in the area.
Pros:
- Knowledgeable instructors
- Friendly, family-like atmosphere
- Flexible month-to-month plans
- Clean facilities
- Supportive community
- Variety of martial arts programs
- Focus on personal development
- Challenging and engaging classes
- Significant improvements in fitness and confidence
Cons:
- Limited class availability certain days
- Slightly higher pricing
- No free trial class offered
Location / Contact
- Address: 8 Corporate Cir, Albany, NY 12203, United States
- Phone:+1 518-456-2582
- Email:[email protected]
- Website:518empire.com
Rating Stats
Frequently Asked Questions
Except the peak hours, this place remains quite free or moderately crowded.
This business has a rating of 4.8-star.
This business has 70 reviews.
The address is: 8 Corporate Cir, Albany, NY 12203, United States .
The contact number is +1 518-456-2582
This service is listed under Martial Arts School .
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Cassie Antalek
4 years ago
I started strike fit back in July 2018 and since then I've lost 35lbs and dropped from a 22 to a 16. The owner and his team are great at keeping you motivated and coming back. Serisouly the best thing I've done for myself.
Clint Junco
4 years ago
It can be hard to find motivation to learn a new skill or get in shape. At Empire, the team and instructors keep you focused and driven to push yourself to where you want to be. Show up, give your best, leave stronger.
Jason Nordwall
4 years ago
Best workout experience I've ever had. Great support, tons of interesting classes, and a super clean facility. Worth every penny. Been going for almost 2 years and still look forward to every workout.
William Dolan
4 years ago
My own experience at ED&F has been tremendous. Every program offered takes a systematic approach; every class and technique is thought out and is prep for the next class/technique.Before you know it, the things I learned (and some I hadn't realized I'd learned!) bore fruit-- they were solid and ingrained and 2nd nature.Very Miyagi-esque, Coach Condon!Naturally, when my daughter turned 8 I enrolled her in ED&F's 518Ninja program.She is getting stronger and more focused with every class. She's doing things she thought only "big people" could do.She is excited to get to class and improving every day.Again, the instruction is layered so as to build upon the last teachings and to keep the student progressing, engaged and SAFE.Can't recommend the school enough for hard charger Type-As looking to learn self-defense mindset and technique, families desiring better health and a bonding family activity ...or individuals looking for general (or high-performance) athletic ability, confidence and prowess.
mike waldman
4 years ago
Albany MMA is an awesome place. The workouts are challenging and the staff is SUPER knowledgeable. It does not have the usual muscle head atmosphere of a gym. The customers as well as the staff are all Super Friendly and Supportive. The workouts are enjoyable and results evident after just a few weeks. Alan Condon the owner is very hands on and takes true pride in the facility, his staff, and his clients. GREAT PEOPLE ... GREAT GYM>>
Jean Holst
4 years ago
I started the Strike Fit program back in July, 2018. I have always hated going to the gym and have tried endless exercise classes. By far, this is the best workout program I have ever experienced. It is now, September, 2019 and I am still in it to win it. I absolutely love it. You get an intense workout for 30 minutes and constantly learning new techniques. Alan and Cheryl are absolutely the best. They are so warm and inviting to anyone that goes there. What I find most amazing about them is that they know everyone's name that comes through that door at any given time. Now that's impressive! If you want to get a great workout, meet some awesome people then Empire Defense & Fitness Inc. in for you.
Nash Victory
4 years ago
It’s the best thing happening. You need to come in and do a trial. There’s Krav Maga for those seeking self defense skills or just an awesome high energy workout. There’s an unmatched Muay Thai program that allows you to SAFELY develop and integrate skills while getting a killer workout. Brazilian jiu-jitsu taught by a masterful instructor and a class of students always emphatic to add newcomers to the family. There is also a cardio kickboxing program if one is seeking kickboxing skills without the combat elements. There’s even private training when time allows and obstacle course racing.It’s family owned with an “at home” feel.It’s full time so there is definitely a program for your schedule.It’s a lot of fun.You owe it to your goals and health to set up a trial.
Mj Sampson
4 years ago
This is the best Gym in Albany. Alan and his staff are awesome. They have been excellent. I started off in Krav Maga level 0 and in 6 months was promoted to level1. Alan, Kevin, Cheryl and Dan are all AWESOME. I lost 45 lbs in 7 months, it was not easy but with their encouragement I was able to do it...
betsy tanenhaus
4 years ago
This place blows big box gyms out of the water. Locally owned & operated, the staff is knowledgeable and friendly. The instructors focus on form & keep the classes interesting. Totally worth the price, I highly recommend Empire Defense & Fitness!
Amanda Rozsavolgyi
4 years ago
I've been doing the strike fit program at Empire since July 2018 and as dramatic as it may sound, it has been a life changing experience for me. Not only have a dropped nearly 30 pounds and gained discernible muscles for the first time in my life, but my overall self-confidence and self-efficacy have also significantly increased. The staff at Empire foster a welcoming, challenging, and fun environment where you're guaranteed to succeed if you consistently try your best. The knowledge, skills, and mindset I've gained at Empire are invaluable to me, both on and off the mat. I strongly encourage anyone looking to make positive strides in their life to come in and learn what you're truly made of.