Verified Business

Empire Defense & Fitness Inc

9.0
8 Corporate Cir, Albany, NY 12203
Perfect for:
Fitness enthusiastsSelf-defense seekers
Closed today
Empire Defense & Fitness Inc interior

About

Empire Defense & Fitness in Albany, New York is a family-owned martial arts gym that offers a variety of programs including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, and specialized fitness classes. The gym is known for its supportive atmosphere where instructors Alan, Cheryl, and Liam provide personalized attention to help students achieve their fitness goals while learning practical self-defense skills. Students consistently report significant physical improvements, increased confidence, and a sense of community that keeps them coming back.

Taekwondo Near Me VerifiedTaekwondo Verified
9.02/10

Our weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.

We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.

Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.

Overall Vibe imageOverall Vibe
9.40100 reviews
Instructor imageInstructors Quality
9.8291 reviews
Class Structure imageClasses
9.3767 reviews
Facility Quality imageFacility Quality
8.4070 reviews
Value for Money imagePricing
9.147 reviews
Location and Accessibility imageLocation & Accessibility
8.003 reviews

Public Review Sentiment

Google
Based on 117 Google Reviews
The public reviews for Empire Defense & Fitness are overwhelmingly positive, with many long-term members highlighting significant physical transformations, increased confidence, and the supportive community atmosphere. Students frequently mention losing weight (some reporting 30-40 pounds), gaining strength, and developing practical self-defense skills while enjoying the challenging but welcoming environment.
Last Updated 14 Apr 2025

Instructors

Instructors Alan, Cheryl, and Liam are consistently praised for their extensive knowledge, patient teaching style, and ability to work with students of all skill levels. They create a supportive environment while pushing students to challenge themselves and improve both physically and mentally.

Facility

The facility is described as clean, well-maintained, and continually improving with state-of-the-art equipment. Members appreciate the professional environment and the cleanliness of the training areas and locker rooms.

Pricing

While specific pricing information isn't readily available on the website, members generally feel the value received justifies the cost. Many long-term members mention that the physical and mental benefits they've gained make the investment worthwhile.

Facility

Well MaintainedEnough spaceLocker roomsClean bathroomsTraining equipmentStriking pads

Gym

Mixed AtmosphereSupportive VibeExcellent Safety

Instructors

KnowledgeableSupportivePatientChallengingAttentive

Classes

GiNo-GiCompetitionAdvancedOpen matKids ClassesAdult friendly

Pricing

Good ValueNo free trial

Instead of free trials, Empire Defense & Fitness appears to offer paid introductory classes or packages to help new students determine if the gym is right for them.

Location

Ample ParkingGood Accessibility

Opening Hours

Closed today
Monday 9:30AM - 9PM
Tuesday 3:30PM - 9:30PM
Wednesday 9:30AM - 9PM
Thursday 3:30PM - 9:30PM
Friday (Today)Closed
Saturday 9AM - 12:30PM
Sunday Closed

Location

Located at 8 Corporate Circle in Albany, NY, the gym is accessible to residents from surrounding communities including Colonie, Latham, Guilderland, Delmar, Troy, Clifton Park, and Niskayuna.

Address

8 Corporate Cir, Albany, NY 12203

Website

https://www.518empire.com/

Phone

+1518-608-3059

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of martial arts classes are offered?

Empire Defense & Fitness offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, Kajukenbo, and various fitness classes including Strike Fit and Boot Camp.

Is this gym suitable for beginners with no martial arts experience?

Yes, many reviews mention starting as complete beginners and feeling welcomed and supported. The instructors work with students at all skill levels and provide appropriate progression.

Do they offer classes for children?

Yes, they offer kids classes including a 518Ninja program that helps children build strength, confidence, and discipline in a fun, supportive environment.

What kind of results can I expect?

Members consistently report significant weight loss (some 30-40 pounds), increased strength, improved confidence, stress reduction, and practical self-defense skills. Many mention the mental benefits alongside the physical improvements.