Real Voices.
Our clients spoke. No hype, no filters...just what training did for their lives.
Ever wonder if self-defense training actually works?
These aren’t made up stories. Real people. Real challenges. Real transformation.
Some were nervous. Some had tried other programs that didn’t stick.
Step by step, session by session…Confidence grew.
Awareness sharpened. Skills stayed.
They walk taller. Move smarter. Feel alive. No hype. No fluff. Just proof.
The same results are possible for you.
Stop guessing. Start walking through life prepared, sharp and empowered
Real Results.
What I would Tell You If
You are Thinking About Joining?
Andrew, 65 - Pittsfield, MA
"Anyone can do this. I started in my early 60s, and I love every minute of it. Don’t overthink it, just start."
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What drew you to EMPIRE?
“I was looking for no-nonsense self-defense as I had trained before in another state. Empire stood out because it wasn’t about hype or trophies, it felt like a place where I could continue my training and stay sharp.”
What is Different About Empire?
“Empire isn’t sport-based. The focus is on real world skills, mindset and confidence. It is also serious training without the ego. That balance is rare.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“The community and the variety. Every class challenges me physically and mentally, but the vibe makes it enjoyable. The drills are practical and I can feel myself improving.”
What would you like to share with others?
“You don’t age out of training. You get stronger, more confident and more prepared for the real world. Empire makes that possible.”
What drew you to EMPIRE?
Barbara, 57 - Brunswick, NY
"I was juggling a high-stress career and needed a positive outlet, not just a workout, but something that challenged me mentally and physically. Empire offered exactly that. It felt real, not routine."
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What is Different About Empire?
“The vibe is what hit me first. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and supported. But beyond that, it’s the structure, the accountability and the way Alan wrks with you where you are at while still pushing you to grow.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“I love the discipline, the attention to technique and the constant push toward being your best. The training is real, the energy is high and you always leave stronger, physically and mentally.”
What I Would Tell You If You Are Thinking About Joining:
“If you are even a little curious, start with the trial classes. That one step could change everything. Every day is a chance to grow and Empire is built to help you do just that.”
What Would You Like to Share With Others?
“Empire isn’t just a gym. It’s a community. It’s confidence. It’s strength from the inside out. And once you experience it, you will wonder why you waited.”
What would you like to
share with others?
Tom, 25 - Medusa, NY
"Alan’s training has been an excellent experience and Im very proud to be member of the Empire team."
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What drew you to EMPIRE?
“I was looking for something that would make me feel confident, so that I could defend myself if I needed to.”
What is Different About Empire?
“I had never trained in martial arts and I was able to work at my own pace and learn how to hold the pads safely.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“I am more confident now and I like how I release the stress from my day after few minutes into the class and I feel great.”
What I would Tell You If You are Thinking About Joining?
“If you have been hesitating to start like I did, do it. Starting something new can be intimidating, but since I started I have felt right at home.”
What drew you to EMPIRE?
Cori, 30 - Troy, NY
"After finishing playing collegiate sports, I needed something that could try and match the intensity instead of a boring gym."
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What is Different About Empire?
“What made me comfortable reaching out as an adult was how open and welcoming Empire is to anyone interested in trying martial arts.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“The confidence I have gained and learning self defense makes me feel safe.”
What Would You Like to Share With Others?
“There is no reason not to try it, and once you do, you will get hooked.”
What do you like best
about the classes?
Tristan, 25 - Greenwich, NY
"Every class challenges me, not just physically but mentally. The structure, the mindset, the purpose, it all builds you up in a way no gym ever did."
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What drew you to EMPIRE?
“I was lost in life and searching for purpose. Empire’s message about real world selfdefense and personal development hit me hard, it felt like something real, not hype.”
What is Different About Empire?
“Empire is about becoming stronger mentally and physically through realistic training and discipline. They meet you where you are at, but also push you to rise.”
What I would Tell You If You Are Thinking About Joining:
“If you feel like something’s missing in your life, try one class. That is all it took for everything to change for me.”
What Would You Like to Share With Others?
“Empire gave me confidence, discipline and purpose. This place didn’t just train me, it transformed me.”
What is Different About Empire?
Tasha, 32 - Altamont, NY
"From day one, it was clear this place is different. There is a mindset shift that happens here. The energy is welcoming, the community is tight-knit and the training is real."
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What drew you to EMPIRE?
“I wasn’t just looking for a workout. I wanted something that actually mattered. The real-world self defense message stood out to me right away, but what really sealed it was the screening call. That extra step showed me this wasn’t just a gym, they actually cared why I was showing up.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“I love the intensity and fun of Krav Maga. Striking the pads became my favorite part. And every class leaves me feeling stronger and more confident both physically and mentally.”
What I Would Tell You If You Are Thinking About Joining:
“You will get an incredible workout, meet real people and gain confidence you didn’t even know you were missing. I leave every class feeling accomplished and supported.”
What Would You Like to Share With Others?
“Empire gave me a turning point. In just six classes, I felt stronger, sharper and more grounded. If you are on the fence, take the step. This might be exactly what you have been looking for.”
What is Different About Empire?
Alex, 35 - Schenectady, NY
"The fact that beginners were welcome made it feel way less intimidating to get started."
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What drew you to EMPIRE?
“I was looking for something that went beyond just lifting weights. The idea of learning self defense grabbed my attention. and the fact that beginners were welcome made it feel way less intimidating to get started.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“I love that the training feels purposeful. It challenges me athletically, helps me decompress, and builds the kind of strength I don’t get from the gym. As a woman, it also gives me peace of mind knowing I can handle myself if something ever goes wrong.”
What I would Tell You If You Are Thinking About Joining
“This will challenge you, empower you, and make you stronger in ways you didn’t expect.”
What Would You Like to Share with Others?
“The class isn’t just about self defense, it builds your confidence. It’s fun and way more than a workout.”
What drew you to EMPIRE?
Peter, 57 - Chatham, NY
"I was looking for something different than the traditional martial arts I did in the past. I wanted to learn practical self defense. That is what originally got my attention, their KRAV MAGA class."
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What is Different About Empire?
“I have stayed for 8 years because Empire isn’t just a martial arts school. It’s where I train my body, my mind and my standards. And that’s not something I am willing to give up.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“From day one, I saw that Alan was on a different level. I was skeptical of my ability, but he gave me the confidence to push through.”
What I would Tell You If You are Thinking About Joining?
“So the day you don’t feel like coming to class? That is the day you need it the most. And if you stay with it long enough, something shifts. You don’t just attend class…you start to need it. You will feel off when you miss a session. That’s how deep it gets.”
What would you like to share with others?
“No matter what your goals are when you first walk in, I found that just showing up consistently changes you, physically, mentally and emotionally. Stick with it. Empire isn’t just a gym. It’s where you come to sharpen who you are.”
What would you like to
share with others?
Sorel - Schenectady, NY
"Empire gives you strength and confidence that stays with you everywhere you go."
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What drew you to EMPIRE?
“I wanted more than just a workout. I was looking for women’s self defense that would make me feel confident walking alone at night, plus a program that could keep me strong and healthy.”
What is Different About Empire?
“I came for fitness, but I found so much more, skills that matter in real life and a community that makes training fun.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“Empire delivers self defense I trust and a place that pushes me forward.”
What I would Tell You If You are Thinking About Joining?
“Don’t wait until something happens to take self defense seriously. Start now. I was nervous walking in the door, but I am so glad I did.”
What drew you to EMPIRE?
Dan, 53 - Potter Hollow, NY
"I was looking for a place that was serious about results but still welcoming. I knew after my fist class that Empire had that balance."
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What is Different About Empire?
“Alan and Cheryl are the difference they really care about you and your progress.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“The variety and the people. It keeps me motivated and makes me want to keep coming back.”
What I would Tell You If You are Thinking About Joining?
“Just take the first step. I love every minute of it.”
What do you like best
about the classes?
Mike, 55 - Ballston Spa, NY
"The reset they give me. Being self employed can be stressful and these classes are where I recharge. Alan, Cheryl and a the people make it even better, the community here is motivating and supportive."
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What drew you to EMPIRE?
“I had trained before, but I was looking for something that would push me further. I wanted practical, no-nonsense training that challenged both my body and my mind.”
What is Different About Empire?
“The training is real, pressure-tested and ego-free. You walk out with skills you can actually use and a mindset that carries over into everyday life.”
What I would Tell You If You are Thinking About Joining?
“If you have trained before and want something that feels real and keeps you sharp, this is it. Don’t put it off, you will be glad you made the jump.”
What would you like to share with others?
“Empire proves that training isn’t just physical. It’s mental, it is stress relief and it’s a challenge worth taking no matter where you are in life.”
What is Different About Empire?
Angelo, 53 - East Greenbush, NY
"The community and how Alan and Cheryl helped me become more accountable in a way that pushes you to grow."
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What drew you to EMPIRE?
“I wanted real self-defense as I travel for work and I also wanted to be able to protect my family.”
What do you like best about the classes?
“Every class leaves me feeling more focused, more capable and more confident. The structure, and support make it something I actually look forward to.”
What I Would Tell You If You Are Thinking About Joining
“If you are even thinking about joining, take that as your sign and just show up. You don’t have to be in shape, just willing to start.”
What Would You Like to Share With Others?
“Empire helped me level up in ways I didn’t expect. The training has helped me develop a stronger mindset and confidence.”
What's Your Story?
Your Name - Your City
Your future headline starts here. The only thing missing is your decision to begin.
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You have to START before your story can continue!
Your Story Could Be Next
Take the first step toward confidence, awareness and skills that stick. Don’t wait for reality to test you first.
Empire Defense and Fitness provides classes to Albany, Colonie, Latham, Guilderland, Delmar, Troy, Clifton Park & Niskayuna communities.
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