Extremely friendly staff and masters. Very helpful to beginners. Many senior rank judokas to…read morepractice against. All ages from 7 to 70 are present at the classes. Relaxed environment but still in keeping with the discipline and respect that comes from judo. Much of what I have experienced is a "learn by doing" atmosphere, which I personally find extremely helpful. However, all of the senior ranks are willing to step out of randori (free practice) and show you a specific technique if you ask. Even while practicing with a senior rank, I have asked to stop and be shown a technique and they have happily helped me. All of the instructors are registered with The Kodokan Institute in Tokyo, Japan and it shows. Not as focused on competition as some schools and clubs, but there are members who compete. It is a small school and there are really just, changing rooms, an office of sorts, and the mats to practice on. Not a very flashy place, but it is made up for in the welcoming environment and great teaching. Pricing is good ($80 a month) which is competitive for any other school in the area. Judogi are available at the school until you buy your own, which you can do through them. At the time of my joining they offer two free lessons (no commitment) and 1 month free if you join the club. They also offer membership with USJA (United States Judo Association) wich is a national dues fee of $50, but will keep you on record as a judoka and keep a record of ranks earned. Practices are held three times a week so there is plenty of time to fit it into your schedule. I am a PhD student at RPI and I still have been able to find time to make it over at least once a week. A kata class is held on fridays for senior ranks as well. Go. Its worth a look if you are even remotely interested in Judo. The friendly staff is wonderful with kids, and the professionalism and level of skill from the masters is worth the time of anyone wanting to learn more about the sport.

I went in there to check it out, as I am a martial artist who is interested in becoming more…read morewell-rounded and am open to learning styles different than my own. During the course of the conversation, the master asked me if I had any martial arts experience. I answered yes. He continued to ask questions; I would have preferred to keep it to myself, however, I answered him. It came out that I am a 4th degree black belt. He found out that I had "only" been training for 15 years, and he wasn't even polite enough to attempt to hide his shock or disgust, even when I explained the belt progression timeline of my martial art to him. His disdain for a martial art that wasn't judo was palpable. Just because a belt system is faster doesn't mean that it's inferior, and as fellow martial artists, we should be attempting to treat one another's arts with respect, or be open to learning about them and their differences. The kicker was when he was explaining the schedule to me, and said, "You can join in tonight if you'd like. Oh wait. A lot of the guys come in on [this night of the week]. You probably wouldn't want to train with them." This was said in a patronizing, condescending tone. Basically, he was assuming a female martial artist wouldn't want to train with men. I can only hope that he doesn't treat all female students at the dojo with such disrespect. While it may be a great environment to train and learn judo, if this master was any indication of the values and tenets they teach to their students, then I'd give it a hard pass and find a place that teaches courtesy and respect to ALL (not just people who agree with us), as well as teaching in a way that promotes both physical and mental strength for women.

For people new to Brazilian jiu jitsu: In September of 2008, I decided to get off the couch and…read morestart up a martial art for fitness, self-defense and all around improving myself. After exploring a few places, I walked into Victory BJJ and took a Saturday morning class. Victor was running the warm-up drills for the students with a watchful eye and walked me through the safety rules before smoothly involving me into the class. I was hooked. Immediately. That was six and a half years ago. I've been attending his classes three to five times a week ever since. Victor has a clear and precise way of teaching that is easy to watch, grasp, feel and understand the complex moves being taught. We drill the moves in progressive steps and eventually put them to use in the sparring phase of the class. Victor is also a very, very good grappler and creates a technique-intensive and professional atmosphere that welcomes everybody. There's no "bro culture" and the people at the gym are genuinely interested in helping each other get better without tearing people down. The kids classes are absolute marvels to watch - they get so excited at doing things right and venting energy productively! - and the adult classes are not quite as outwardly exciting, but are great places to vent energy and develop our puzzle-solving and athletic skills. Most weekday classes are from 7:00 pm to about 8:30 or 9:00 pm. For experienced people: Berimbolo and vale tudo coexist here. More of the latter than the former, but Victor will subvert the new sports bjj stuff we throw at him and take our backs while laughing quietly. Very experienced, exacting teacher with a good sense of humor.

I've been training at Victory for several years and it's the best place that I've trained at in the…read morearea.

In September 2016 I brought my grandson to JMJC he had PT as part of his school requirements. They…read morehad a 3yr plan to get him age appropriate. But by his winter review at school and less the 5 months of being in judo the school was amazed he achieved all the goals the set for him. And he was now age appropriate. Then in February 2018 Jason convinced me to give it a shot. Despite me being a grandfather and having a plate in my neck and 3 screws in my left shoulder. Well I am currently practicing 4 times a week. While I will never be competing my body feels better then it has in over 20 yrs. And everyone there welcomes me and makes me feel that I have something to add by being there. Even if just there so someone has a practice partner.

Master Yun and his instructors are wonderful! They're talented teachers who are knowledgeable,…read morewelcoming, and push you to be your absolute best both inside and outside of class. As an adult, I was happy to see adults of all ages and ranks in class. They work equally well with me as they do the kids, and they work hard with each of their students, as a group and individually, to make sure they are getting the most out of their lessons. Here you will not only learn and practice tae kwon do, but also physical and mental wellness, confidence, discipline, perseverance, self defense, and much much more. Most of all, the moment you step into Columbia TKD, you are treated like family; this leads to an environment that fosters growth, learning, and a strong sense of community and teamwork. If you're looking for tae kwon do training, this is the place to go. You will not regret your decision!

While searching for an after school activity for my daughter, I was hitting road blocks as far as…read morewhat I could afford, and schedule. My daughter received an invitation from a classmate to visit Columbia Tae Kwon Do. She said friends from school go here and asked if she could check it out. Conveniently located on 9&20 in East Greenbush. Different class times to work with your schedule. Cost so far is $40 for uniform and 4 weeks of classes. Master Yun is very good with kids, and will take the time to make sure even my lil white belt understands what to do. Teaches kids in a positive manner, and with teaching discipline, listening, following instructions. It has only been my daughters 4th class and she's learned quite a bit. Made a few friends. I'll leave this for now and add more later.

Really enjoyed and appreciate our time with Master Yuhasz. He does great instructing all age groups…read morebut offers more beyond TKD with kids. He incentivizes kids to read and rewards their milestones. He also offers activities beyond TKD, such summer camp, food pantry collections, trunk or treat, etc., etc.. Highly recommend trying this school.

I joined this place a while ago. They are great. Prices are reasonable and the instructors are…read moreknowledgeable and friendly. The owner Mike does not try to pull the wool over your eyes about prices and what the programs entail. Great place, and I'll continue to do business with them. One more thing they just moved down Rt 9 about a mile into a brand new building and at the time of this posting the address was not updated on here.

My children have just started with Sensei JP & to say I'm impressed is an understatement. He's…read morepatient, calm, has a peaceful demeanor & is funny to boot. The dojo "has a great vibe" in my sons words & I can't wait to see how the kids learn to appreciate the art. Thank you, Sensei JP.

About the Dojo: This Dojo is great. About a year ago I was looking for a martial arts school in the…read morecapital region. My issue at first was that I could not find one that really seemed to take pride in the discipline. In other words, A lot of the places around here just want money and will have you sign long contracts and push "belts" at you. Saratoga Budo is not like that and I just pay monthly and train 3+ days a week. The other aspect I like is that this school is small, so we are all able to get training from a 3rd degree black belt, which does help our progression move along quickly. About the instructor: Sensei JP is extremely patient and understanding. I have been training with him for about a a year and I must say, it has been the best decision of my life. I have learned so much from him and his teaching style helps me strive to become the best. I have learned how to become more confident while also learning how to improve my spiritually as well. I sometimes make mistakes with how I approach a "move" but he never makes me feel like an idiot for not mastering it right away and is always able and willing to help. His teaching stye leaves open the opportunity to "self-learn". He does not force you to do things a certain way and allows you to figure out alternate ways to do things. Coming here is the best part of my week and I find myself constantly thinking about how I can improve and what I can learn. If you are looking for a jujutsu school I would recommend Saratoga Budo to anyone. You have nothing to lose. If I wasnt in grad school and didnt work full time, I would probably train more than I do. I came in not even knowing how to "roll". I progressed in such a short period of time all thanks to the masterful way Sensei teaches. 2019 update- still going strong. This place is still the best.

This was an odd crunch for me, as someone who typically visits in the city. Likely a rebrand of a…read moredifferent gym or something--it was a bit weird and orderly for me, with everything lined up in neat rows--I guess this is what happens when a gym is in a spacious strip mall and not crammed into the weird geography of an old NYC building? I mean overall it was fine and clean--ample weight and cardio machines, a bit less unique equipment but did have a plyo area. The shower/locker room was frustrating though--no towels, not even any soap--again, probably a difference of people driving to the gym and bringing their own stuff--or going home and showering--but was frustrating for me. Overall, though a bit far for me to come to regularly, glad it is an option up here.

Excellent location! Great management. From the front desk to the trainers, all of the staff are…read morevery professional and friendly. This gym location is large, with a good selection of equipment & fitness options. It's not too crowded, and the environment feels welcoming to all.

Worst OTF location I've ever been to. If you want someone recording themselves while you work out…read morenext to them, then you've found the right place. If you want to see unorganized girls running around the gym not know what they are doing, you've found the right spot. If you want to try a free class to see if you want to join, and then get asked to pay $30, turn again you've found the right place. SAVE YOUR MONEY AND TIME AND GO SOMEWHERE ELSE. ANYWHERE ELSE.

Great workout in the cleanest gym I've ever been in. All the coaches and studio assistants are…read moregreat. Take a class with Coach Toni and you'll experience someone so helpful and knowledgeable. I'm older and have some physical limitations. Coach Toni accommodates everything.