Josh is wonderful with kids. Instills confidence and strength. He encourages them in martial arts and being good people. Even if he has to correct a child he does it in such a way that they learn the lesson but don't feel diminished. read more

Ryer is the real deal. I've done boxing, kick boxing, and krav maga at locations across Pittsburgh, and I've never encountered a studio where every single aspect is so impeccably run. The mats, bags, gloves, equipment and entire locker room are all in such stunningly good condition that they look like they've never been used. All the students are extraordinarily friendly and helpful. All the coaches have the rare combination of advanced expertise, deep passion for martial arts and a constructive approach. They build up every sequence from the simplest movements to complex combinations to match each student's level of experience. More than anyone, this is true for the owner Josh Ryer who sets the culture and tone with his complete mastery of the curriculum and keen eye for perfection in every detail balanced with an easy going laugh and friendly laid back attitude. If you want fitness and fun combined with real world defense training, I hope to see you in class soon! read more

We discovered Ryer's when my 8 year old son decided he wanted to take karate. Knowing nothing about karate studios in Pittsburgh we found Ryer's by using our iPhone maps. After leaving a message, Ryer's impressed us by returning our call within 24 hours even though the studio was closed so the staff could attend an annual training event. Ryer's continued to impress us when we showed up for my son's complimentary introductory class. The owners greeted our son by name, introduced us to the staff, and took the time to answer all of our questions. We appreciate the wide variety of options offered by the team at Ryer's. We were looking for a program that allowed us flexibility in scheduling. Ryer's has it. Classes are offered multiple times during the week. We enrolled based on the number of classes per week our son wanted to attend. The specific days are flexible. It's a perfect arrangement for a family with multiple children who have busy after school schedules. Ryer's also allows parents to observe the classes. Each studio has comfortable padded bench seating where parents gather during classes. It has been fun to watch the kids learn and grow under the guidance of Ryer's talented staff. It has also been fun getting to know the other parents. As a parent I love seeing my son challenged both physically and mentally. Character matters at Ryer's and every class has a time where the instructors sit with the kids and talk about integrity, strength, friendship, and other words that capture the spirit of martial arts. But the best part of Ryer's for me is the impact they have had on my entire family. After a few weeks of watching my son's karate class I noticed that Ryer's offered a yoga class at the same time. I signed up despite not having done any physical exercise for years. The instructor welcomed me with warmth and sensitivity. She took the time to talk to me prior to the first class and checked in with me during the class to help me adapt the poses to my fitness level. I was (and still am) hooked! My husband became active in Ryer's this January when they began offering Cross Fit. You can now find him working out in "the box" three times a week. My teenage daughter and son are being pulled into the world of Ryer's as well! My daughter attended a yoga class with me and fell in love with it. She now attends both yoga and the women's self defense courses. Our teenage son is anxiously awaiting a teen Cross Fit class. I can not recommend Ryer's highly enough. Josh and Kristy have created a community where everyone is welcome. At Ryer's you are accepted exactly as you are yet you are constantly encouraged to go beyond what you think you can do. They make you believe you can do it! Ryer's is not a gym where you will be just a face in the crowd. read more

Excellent martial arts school! When I was younger, I studied a few different martial arts in High School and College, but I hadn't practiced in over 10 years. I started my son in the pre-school classes at Ryer's and I couldn't resist signing up myself after I saw the school/classes and met the instructors. The classes are different from any class that I've taken in the past. The variety of styles and techniques make every class interesting, fun and challenging. There is a 4 week rotation consisting of striking techniques, eskrima/knife, grappling and Brazilian jiu jitsu. I love the fact that at every level, we learn advanced techniques that we won't be "formally" required to master until we reach higher belt levels. The curriculum is the Counterpoint Tactical System which is a very practical martial arts system. Every class is fun, the instructors are great and the class is a great workout. Highly recommended for all ages/levels! read more

I am temporarily in Pittsburgh for work for about 2 months and quickly discovered this amazing place! I've never (in my life) been a member of a gym or taken regular fitness classes. I work 12-14 hours a day, on my feet, and the idea of going to run on a treadmill before or after didn't appeal to me in the least. I lived in Los Angeles for 5 years and yoga is almost a religion there. Really intense, overcrowded classes, with no space or time to instruct newbies. I attended a yoga class at Ryers with my friend (the first one is complimentary) and fell in love! I am not one to beat myself up during a work out. Mary (the yoga instructor) is tough and forces you to push yourself. She doesn't let you give up on stuff, but the work out is not high impact (like running.) In just 5 weeks I've found myself more flexible and my strength level (especially in my upper body) has definitely increased. I feel more in tune with my body and my tense, strained back has relaxed!! Mary gives a lot of personal attention and helps adjust you to the proper poses. With my crazy hours it is also nice to have flexible days and classes. The other plus is its very affordable! I paid 79 dollars for a month, with 2 classes a week (that's less than 10 dollars a class!!!!) Highly, highly recommend this place! Everyone is warm, the facilities are clean, and they offer an array of classes and times (yoga, kickboxing, cross-fit, martial arts.) read more

Great place for real training! Staff is very very friendly, environment is great. I attend the CTS (Counterpoint Tactical System) classes where they teach u how to attack, defense, ground grappling, weapon combat, real life situations and much more. Instructors are expert and catch your mistakes fast and help you change! Prices are reasonable too) People join! Highly recommend this place! read more

This is a high quality training experience for both children and parents. Our four year-old son began preschool karate and took a while to warm up to the class. The personability of the owner, Josh Ryer, the gentle persistence of the instructors, and the low student:teacher ratio impressed me right away. After a few sessions, our son grew to love the class and now his little sister joins him in class. The instructors, especially Josh, Brandon, and Rauhit, are totally focused on the kids. Some of the kids have a hard time paying attention and need redirection; this is done with firm courtesy. It is more than just learning to kick and punch; this is about developing discipline, self-control, and leadership skills. There are discussions about the word of the month and what it means to the kids. I never imagined that my son would volunteer to speak up in class but he now raises his hand regularly to answer questions. A bonus is that the kids talk about being respectful to their parents and siblings! The studio is immaculate and the parents can watch the class from the sides in comfort. The locker rooms are spacious and have showers. I can't say enough about Josh Ryer and his staff. Linda at the desk will take good care of you when you first enter the building. I have given this my highest recommendation to my friends and those who have joined have become converts as well. read more

Ryer Martial Arts is in incredible place. We were in Pgh for just the summer so I signed my 6yo son up for the martial arts classes. He fell completely in love with it..and in my opinion this is mainly because of the amazing teachers. They teach respect for oneself and others, patience, self discipline, honesty, kindness, support of others, verbal defense against bullies (all the things a parent wants to instill in their child) and of course, awesome martial arts moves that are more geared to a real world situations when one is being bullied (e.g kicks, punches, how to dodge when a punch is being thrown your way, how to fall, stick moves, etc..). Anyone in Pgh who has an interest in martial arts (whether it be a kid or adult) THIS IS THE PLACE TO GO. Thank you Josh, Rauhit, David and the rest of your amazing crew. read more

Ryer Martial Arts Academy is definitely worth checking out if you are at all interested in kickboxing. With a wide range of class days and times, it's not hard to find time to get a great workout. These classes are taken by people of all ages, with a wide-range of fitness levels and body types as well, so don't be intimidated! Don't worry that you're not "fit" enough. The staff here are amazing -- encouraging, challenging and focused at helping each person do their very best. With that said, the workouts are partner-intensive, so you're always matched up with someone at a similar level with a similar amount of drive. From the first class here, I was hooked! Not only is it a challenging work out, it's really fun (kicking and punching a bag... love it!) I've also learned so much about myself taking these classes, while strengthening both body and mind. I am more confident, more fit and more willing to take on challenges because I've seen how much I can accomplish by trying my best. I've also met some really great people attending these classes. Lastly, the atmosphere of Ryer Martial Arts Academy is one of learning and growth, not ego. That was really important to me when I was choosing somewhere to take classes. I didn't want to feel intimidated into exercising; I wanted challenge and growth, but I also wanted to have fun! So while there is a constant encouragement to push yourself to try your hardest, it's certainly not at the expense of self-care. If you're at all interested, I highly recommend emailing: info@ryeracademy.com They'll hook you up with A WHOLE WEEK OF FREE CLASSES!! That's how I got started, and I'm SO glad I did :) read more

We enrolled our 6 1/2 year old son in karate following several friends telling us how much they liked Ryer Martial Arts Academy. My son was reluctant and really gave me a hard time about going. It took him a few months to get used to the routine but now he very much enjoys his classes and we increased the frequency of them to twice per week. The staff and instructors are amazing individuals! They are responsive, caring, firm when needed and appropriate. Whenever I have had a question, concern or comment, they have always responded quickly and thoroughly. My son is really flourishing under their guidance and direction. I highly recommend this studio. read more

I highly recommend Crossfit Shadyplace for anyone who is a member at another out of state crossfit gym and looking for one in the Pittsburgh area. Trainer did a great job instructing and motivating. Thanks from Mike Crossfit 1727 in Mass. read more

My experiences at this gym have been 100% outstanding. The work outs are fun, positive, challenging and they make it their business to know everyone's name. It makes me happy to come back every time. It's also the cleanest gym I have ever belonged to. As for the poor review (the ONLY negative review of the 5 yelp reviews and 43 Google reviews), this does not reflect any of my experiences at Ryers. read more

We as an organization have used Ryer Academy as part of our Staff Training for personal safety. They have been instrumental in helping to insure staff be mindful of their environment thru the implementation of safety techniques and a safety plan. Staff have found the trainings to be an essential part of their tool kit for insuring their safety while at work. read more

Ryer Martial Arts represents all that is good in the world of athletics: Fitness, focus, respect, and discipline. Josh and his crew are wonderful examples of these principles and they inspire students to follow suit. Our daughter is gaining not only physical confidence, but also the tools to maintain a calm and peaceful state of being. These "skills" are often forgotten in other sports but are necessary for a happy and successful life. Our daughter loves her karate sessions, and we love Ryer! read more

I have to leave a note here to say Josh Ryer and his staff are remarkable. My son, Ben, started at Ryer several years back, as part of the youth class. Ben has several developmental disabilities and often has difficulty making progress in the most basic life skills. But Josh Ryer and his staff have been consistently thoughtful, supportive and patient with Ben. As a result, the instruction they've given him in the weekly Karate class have helped Ben's confidence and self-esteem. Mr. Ryer in particular has a level of skill in working with the kids that I can only describe as amazing. In addition to being skilled as a martial arts instructor, he also impresses upon his students the importance of respect, kindness and responsibility. Both my son and daughter attend numerous classes and activities outside of school but the instructors at Ryer are truly special. Ryer Martial Arts Academy is a valuable resource for our son and, by extension, our family. read more

Developmentally appropriate and child centered activities incredibly important to me personally and professionally. After much research, we are so thrilled to have found Ryer Academy for our 3.5 year old son. The respectful and positive interactions between the adults and children are truly a model for other programs. If you are researching a structured activity for your little ones please consider Ryer. I hope every child gets to experience a caring teacher filling them with positive feedback, pride and self-worth in a diverse and supportive environment. read more

Absolutely horrific experience. after walking into this dive of a studio i was greeted by an unfriendly overly aggressive Josh Ryer. After being taken to the basement for a cross fit session I again was treated horribly by a disinterested Josh Ryer. My session was fine, but when I was leaving i literally slipped on the ice in front of the building in plain view of Josh Ryer and he did not so much as come out and see if I was alright. I would never recommend this place to anyone. ABSOLUTELY HORRIBLE read more

My first impression two weeks ago was extremely positive. I thought I would try martial arts classes to help relieve stress in my last year of graduate school while exercising and learning practical self defense strategies. What I found was what I was looking for along with a surprise bonus community of friendly, personable, and welcoming staff and students. The classes are taught in a supportive environment using a healthy mix of instruction and practice time. I am hooked. read more

Among all the classes our four year old twins attend, Martial Arts class at Ryer Academy is by far our favorite. In addition to being the cutest thing to watch toddlers while they passionately learn (in their own words) how to become ninjas, it is an activity that not only helps them physically but continuously grows them mentally &emotionally. Fully committed, attentive, supportive and very patient instructors with such a toddler friendly fun style made this class our kids' favorite too. And we can see the impact outside the classroom. One day, we were getting ready to leave the house and our son rushed and opened the door before we were ready. We told him it was not time yet and he needed to close the door and wait for a few more minutes. At that moment, our daughter jumped in and closed the door. He was upset and started complaining loudly. When we least expected, our daughter put her arm around his shoulder and with a calm tone said what does our ninja teacher says, calm cool mind, calm cool mind. They are only four years old and of course they cannot always act on it but we were so happy to see that deep down in there, they are carrying many things they learn at Ryer Academy with them after the class too. A big thank you to Mr Josh and all the preschool instructors for such an amazing program! read more