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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

Rating Stats

4.8

out of 5.0

1 reviews
5.0
1 reviews
4.0
68 reviews
3.0
0 reviews
2.0
0 reviews
1.0

Reviews (70)

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I joined Empire last July and have had such an amazing experience. I was over the whole “go to the gym/ use a treadmill” thing. The classes are well structured and it feels like I am learning as I work out. It was definitely out of my comfort level in the beginning but now I look forward to each week’s new routines. Huge shoutout to the staff- Alan and Cheryl, Nick, Emily- thanks for helping me find a way to kick butt! Definitely check these guys out!!!

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I have been doing the Krav Maga program for 7 months, and have found it a challenging and enjoyable experience the entire time. The facility itself is very clean and organized, even during the multiple improvements and various construction activities it has undergone in the last few months. The instructor, Alan, has a wide knowledge of how to be prepared for any number of real world situations, and is always encouraging during all training sessions, which keeps everyone involved and focused.Overall it is a great class and i highly recommend it to anyone looking to learn self-defense, regardless of their level of practical experience.

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This is an amazing gym. The head instructor Alan is extremely knowledgeable and has a lot of experience under his belt. The building itself is always being improved and the locker rooms/bathrooms are very clean. The clientele is a great group of people to learn besides. I have already grown so much from my time in there! I would highly recommend Empire for learning proper self defense and getting as great workout.

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Alan and his team have helped me immeasurably... At 52, I am stronger, and in better shape to defend myself than I've ever been... Alan's methods train you to be AWARE, not just paranoid or cautious, but aware of your surroundings...He not only trains in what to do in you in a confrontational situation, but in ways to avoid that situation in the first place!Great work ethic and worth every penny!

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Dear Alan,Somewhere in my very early 50s I realized that despite daily visits to the gym - the usual: elliptical some weights, some machines, running - my energy level and weight were moving in inverse proportions (and I mean energy level going down!!).I decided to try martial arts having read some literature describing its benefits. I tried TaeKwonDo for a few months but I was not fully satisfied with what I was able to achieve in comparison to my ultimate goals (and frankly I was not sure what those goals were other than losing some weight).I continued researching and in April of 2017 I found on the internet Empire Self Defense and Fitness; I was particularly interested in Krav Maga thinking that some self defense knowledge will be beneficial. I called and set up an appointment to learn a bit about the establishment, get a private lesson, and see if it was for me. I met Alan Condon, the owner and chief instructor, and was impressed with the professionalism and confidence exhibited in what he was promising to offer. I decided to take a chance and sign up. It was one of the BEST DECISIONS of my life. I started with Krav Maga in April of 2017 and by September I also signed up for Muay Thai classes. The combination of self defense skills, combative drills, kick boxing skills, and overall intense workouts has provided to me a fantastic boost in energy, muscle development, weight loss (having lost in 12 months over 30 pounds and finally being at my optimal height/weight combination), and self confidence. Critically, that energy and self confidence has translated into making me a better professional (especially during those long hours at the State Capitol).One of the key advantages of Empire Martial Arts is the ability to participate in various optional offerings that allow students to sign up for special training such as the Empire Performance Systems, a series of weekly online guided training that you can apply at home or at a gym, whereby you can enhance your functional strength and seek, as Alan would rightfully put it, higher levels of your personal best. Commando camps, a special off-site event where teams of students compete through various obstacles, is another fantastic application of camaraderie and competition that enhances your strength and competitive spirit.Equally important to me has been the opportunity to make new friends, people who are also seeking to excel and perfect themselves in an environment that no one judges you but everyone is seeking to reach their own best. As my ancient Greek ancestors used to say "Healthy Mind in a Healthy Body". Empire is a testament to that attitude and Alan, my friend, keep it up...ONLY THE BEST FOR EMPIRE.Sincerely.Anthony Rodolakis, Ph.D.

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Empire is an awesome place I don't know, where I would be if I had never found this place! Since starting here I've lost over 80lbs an gained a whole lot of strength, confidence an met some pretty awesome people along the way!

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Allen, Kevin, Dan are great. All make you feel welcome like a family. Better yet, the work outs are strong and exactly what I wanted and needed.

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I have been learning Krav Maga for an year now. Alan is knowledgeable and experienced. A great (and tough :) ) way to shed fat and become fit...worth it !!!

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Hi everyone, not too long ago I wrote a review telling everyone how amazing Empire self defense and fitness was and how joining was one of the best decisions I've ever made. WELL since I wrote that last review I've lost 15 lbs , I'm much stronger and I feel amazing... I can't thank Alan and Kevin enough for there guidance and support.

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I trained here for 3 months hoping to learn Muay Thai but it was more or less a fitness class. They do a belt system for Muay Thai. There are no belts in Muay Thai and you will not get actual Muay Thai training here. If you are not of a certain belt level, they will not have you do some combinations and drills. This is to keep you at the school so you keep paying to get to the next belt in hopes of being taught more.

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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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