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Empire Defense & Fitness Inc
4.8 ★★★★★ 132 Google reviews · Kickboxing gym in Albany, New York
Plan your first class
- Membership memberships run around $200/mo — many studios also offer class packs, drop-ins, and a discounted first month, so ask about new-member rates
- Beginner-friendly all fitness levels welcome, including total beginners — no experience needed, and you get in shape by training, not before
- Cardio kickboxing classes high-energy cardio kickboxing on the bags and pads — a fun, sweaty workout built for fitness and weight loss, at your own pace
- Private lessons one-on-one coaching available — a focused way to start or to work around a busy schedule; ask about availability and rates
- Sparring sparring and partner work for members who want it — always optional, eased in gradually, with the coach controlling the contact
- Competition team a competition team for members who want to test themselves in the ring — amateur kickboxing, muay thai, or K-1
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule 518empire.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone +1 518-608-3059
Hours
| Monday | 9:30 am–12:30 pm, 4–9 pm |
| Tuesday | 4–7:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 9:30 am–12:30 pm, 4–9 pm |
| Thursday | 4–7:30 pm |
| Friday | Closed |
| Saturday | 9:30 am–12 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“I would highly recommend Empire for learning proper self defense and getting as great workout.”
“All techniques and moves are explained in such a way that it is easy for even a beginner like myself to understand and apply.”
“I also appreciate the focus on hitting the training pads and only light contact sparring.”
“I’ve been practicing martial arts, mainly Muay Thai, for a couples years but have never really found a dojo that I liked until joining Empire Defense and Fitness.”
“It is a different experience than any other gym, mixed martial arts studio or private training facility.”
Other martial arts here
“I’ve been practicing martial arts, mainly Muay Thai, for a couples years but have never really found a dojo that I liked until joining Empire Defense and Fitness.”
“It is a different experience than any other gym, mixed martial arts studio or private training facility.”
“Being a Novice in the martial arts/Self Defense, they really made me feel welcome and comfortable.”
What members say
“The head instructor Alan is extremely knowledgeable and has a lot of experience under his belt.”
“Alan and Cheryl have created a wonderfully welcoming and positive atmosphere where you immediately feel engaged and supported in your efforts.”
“I would highly recommend Empire for learning proper self defense and getting as great workout.”
“I have a blast at every Muay Thai class that is both a killer workout and full of practical technical training.”
“Empire is the place to be if you're looking for a transformation.”
“Alan and Cheryl are extremely kind, competent, compassionate people and want to see everyone succeed.”
From the reviews
I have been in the program for 4 weeks and have found it to be a great workout. I only wish I had started the program sooner. It has a very conducive atmosphere to learn and Alan is extremely knowledgeable, patient and a good instructor. I would highly recommend this program to my friends and family.
Call them today to level up in life! I have been a student for roughly 6 months. The personalized hospitality of Alan and Cheryl has been consistent since day 1. If you are willing to learn, they will go above and beyond to share their extensive knowledge with you.
I needed to learn some basic self defense, ASAP. Empire Defense & Fitness was the only facility around that offered just what I needed and I was able to sign up right away. The instructors are kind and encouraging, but also direct. They help you get started on self defense skills, from day one.
Love this place!! I’ve been taking Muay Thai classes and they are exactly what I was looking for. I always leave class feeling I’ve had a great workout. It’s intensive but adjustable to your own level of comfort, so anyone could do it!
New to kickboxing? Start at Empire Defense & Fitness Inc
Empire Defense & Fitness Inc comes up as a beginner-friendly gym — noted on their own site. If you've never thrown a punch or a kick, that's exactly who a good beginners class is for. A few things worth knowing before your first week. First, you don't need to be fit or coordinated to start — you get in shape by training, not before it, and coaches scale every drill to you. Second, you won't be thrown into hard sparring — reputable gyms build the basics (stance, footwork, and punches and kicks on pads and bags) first, and any contact eases in gradually under a coach's control. Third, all fitness levels really are welcome — ask about a dedicated beginners or fundamentals class time so your first session is alongside others who are also starting out. Most gyms are happy to let you watch or try a class first, so reach out before you commit.
Your first kickboxing class at Empire Defense & Fitness Inc
Nervous about walking into a kickboxing gym for the first time? Almost everyone is, and good coaches expect beginners to come through the door. Here's what to know. What to expect: a typical first class is a warm-up, then drilling the basics — stance, footwork, and punches and kicks on pads or a heavy bag — not hard sparring. Go at your own pace and rest whenever you need to; no one will bat an eye. What to wear: comfortable athletic clothes you can move and sweat in, and supportive trainers. What to bring: water, and hand wraps and gloves if you have them — many gyms lend loaner gloves for a first class, so it's worth asking when you call. As you keep training you'll add your own gloves and wraps (and shin guards once you start sparring). Sparring is optional and eases in gradually, once your basics are solid. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign a waiver and meet the coach. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.
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