I've been attending this martial arts gym with my six-year-old son for over a year now, and it's been an incredible experience for both of us. The gym offers a variety of classes, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, and more. The children's program is particularly well-structured, combining BJJ and Krav Maga in a way that keeps kids engaged. My son used to get super bored at his previous gym, where the BJJ class lasted a full hour. Here, each class is split into two 30-minute segments--first focusing on Jiu-Jitsu and then transitioning to Krav Maga. This format helps maintain their attention, prevents boredom, and allows them to develop a well-rounded skill set. The program emphasizes self-defense, anti-bullying techniques, and discipline in a supportive environment. I love how they role-play scenarios where a bully attacks them or an adult tries to grab them. The instructors are fantastic with the kids. The onboarding process is non-intimidating and easy. The instructors learn your name right away and make jumping into a class feel seamless, whether you're a beginner or have prior experience. The gym culture is incredibly welcoming, with a strong sense of community. I've made so many friends here. The instruction is top-notch, featuring world-class coaches who teach both adults and children. At my previous gym, the kids' classes felt like an afterthought and were often taught by lower belts. Here, the children's program is a priority. The environment feels like a big family, making it a fantastic place to build confidence, learn practical self-defense, and be part of a positive, encouraging community. I highly recommend it! read more

Women, 3 questions: 1. Do you know what to do if someone grabs you by your ponytail? 2. Do you know how to defend yourself if someone puts their hands around your throat? 3. What if they pin your arms down and grab you from behind, or worse yet, take you down to the ground? If you don't know the answer, then this is the place to go. I took my daughter to the Women's Self Defense Class which was 8 weeks long and it was an eye opener. It's a great place to meet other women trying to get out of the house for various reasons. Some are there looking for physical fitness, others are there for self-defense reasons, and others are there to make friends. It's not just a gym for guys. The Women's Self Defense class is a great introduction to Krav Maga. If you start there and want more, they have a Krav belt program a few times a week in the morning or at night that you can learn in depth what you just had a taste of in the women's class. Pairing up with other guys and girls, trying out your technique, and testing every few weeks with your new friends, gaining stripes on your belt and learning together. It's so much better than just going to the gym and lifting weights. You'll look forward to every class and then going home to try out your moves on your family or friends. The first time I asked my daughter to "push me" and she saw an elbow coming at her face.....priceless. I love that princess of mine. read more

I go by this place everyday as I workout next door. I have always been interested in taking a martial art/self defense training system. The other day I seen they took the paper of the windows so I was curious and was looking in. I seen a gentleman standing in there so I decided to walk in. When I walked in I was blown away on how this place looked. I was greeted by a man name Nick who is going to be a instructor there. I asked what this place was all about and he went into detail on the classes and the training they will be providing. He also took Me on a tour of the facility and again I was blown away. They used nothing but the best from the mats and equipment. They have a merchandise store, shake bar and my favorite thing a reality room with a bar, ally way and bedroom to name a few where you would learn reality day to day self defense training. I can't wait until this place opens because this is where I want to learn self defense. I highly recommend if any one is interested to check this place out!!!!! read more

Spar has been a second home to me since I got home from the military. I train both the Jiu-Jitsu & Krav Maga belt programs as well as partake in the Warrior and Kickboxing classes. The instructors really keep you motivated and honest. The facility is clean, and the atmosphere is just incredible. Professional, friendly, and most importantly it is a great way to learn real life scenarios and how to defend yourself and learn humility at the same time. I have been in the Jiu-Jitsu program since September 2017 and I can't say enough how much it has helped me grow on the mat and as a person. I train 6 days a week at Spar and every day I learn new things to use the next day. It's a learning experience every day. I definitely recommend it for anyone looking to try something new. Get involved. Check out some classes. Nobody judges anyone here. We all work together as a team. I didn't think I'd find something I'm passion about after the military...but I was wrong. read more

I came here a few weeks ago with my friend who was visiting home for a week. He has been doing Jiu-Jitsu for a year now and convinced me to go check out this gym with him while he was here. Look, I am no expert so I asked my friend what his thoughts were as he travels a lot and has trained in many gyms. He was impressed with the teaching methods, attention to students and technique, and very impressed with how clean it was. I took his advice and signed up. It has only been a few weeks now but I am already absolutely hooked. The staff are amazing, the people are fantastic and the exercise and practical knowledge you get from this are invaluable. I only do the Jiu-Jitsu classes and if you are new to BJJ like me, this is a fantastic place to train and learn. I can't speak for the other classes that are taught...but one visit here and you'll see how much everybody loves training here. See you when you get here! read more

Spar is the best place to learn real self defense for real life stuations. After being into martial arts most of my adult life I had some trepidation about getting back into training after some injuries and being in my 60's I felt I would be limited in my abilities. Wrong. When I met with the owner everything was explained clearly about the many styles Spar has to offer and he listened to what I had to say about what I wanted to get out of training. I chose Krav Maga as it is the most effective form of self defense and it fit what I wanted. The instructors pay such great attention to detail and are always there to help you learn proper techniques. Staff are amazing, no attitudes, everyone is there to learn, and it is amazing how every student is willing to help each other learn. I've been there about a year I look forward to my classes and the people I train with. read more

my daughter has been training at Spar for over 7 years now and has just earned her black belt in Krav Maga. She is now starintg another class at Spar and has loved every minute of the past 7 years. I have been to other schools and I'm really thankful we chose Spar. The coaches are really the best. They are sweet, funny and really know how to treat kids. My kids have had many coaches for different sports over the years and her coaches at spar are among the best. It's really touching how great they are with the kids and how they really know the kids. I really tell everyone I know to go to Spar- for themselves, their kids or both! My daughter has also met friends at Spar. Somehow, they have really nice kids in their classes too. If you haven't been yet, get to Spar- they have the best coaches and the nicest staff too!! read more

When my daughter came home and told me she wanted to be " a ninja", with so many to choose from, I started researching "whats the best martial art for kids" and "which one is most likely to ACTUALLY help you in a dangerous situation?" After countless reviews, videos and research, we chose Krav Maga and BJJ at Spar and we couldn't be MORE PLEASED with our decision. My 5 year old is stronger, more confident, and has formed great bonds with all of her instructors. The teachers are kind and patient, but also teach discipline and respect, helping us reinforce everything we teach at home, with the addition of having some ability take care of herself if anyone ever tries to hurt her. If you're thinking about classes for your child, look no further, I've done the homework for you, and believe me, this is where you want to be. read more

I can't say enough about how impressed I was with SPAR's Women's Self Defense course. I was a bit hesitant to take the class at the beginning but the instructors Jenn and Robynn were amazing. The curriculum is broken down and it's easy to learn. This self defense class not only taught my daughters and I techniques to stay safe but it also empowered us as women to defend ourselves in a difficult situation. My daughters and I loved it so much that we took the course 2x! We can't thank Jenn & Robynn enough for all their help and patience! Not only did we walk away empowered but also fortunate to have met some amazing women that we now call friends! Thank you SPAR! read more

Spar is a friendly inviting environment that welcomes all skill levels; no matter your experience or fitness level. You will find that even in larger classes the experience is tailored to you. Being a student of Martial arts and varied fighting styles for over 10 years I can whole heartedly say that spar is the best I've seen. They offer a diverse range of classes formatted so you can take almost anything that interests you without compromising, all in all, if you're looking to prep for a upcoming fight, wanting to learn to defend yourself in real life situations, or just dropping a few pounds (or all of the above) this is the place. read more

Spar is a great place to train. The instructors are high level and the ratio of coaches to students is always good. The classes move at a pace that allows for students of all levels to learn proper technique but also fast enough to keep everyone fully engaged. The facility is awesome. They obviously spared no expense when it came to equipment! As for Krav itself, it's a very effective self defense system that can immediately be applied in real life situations. I would recommend that anyone who is thinking about learning self defense come and train here. D.H. read more

I recently started going to SPAR in the fall of 2017 to continue my hunger for combat sports. I as a college student on a tight budget and time schedule SPAR was a great overall pick to start BJJ and Boxing. Their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class that is part of the GFT is taught by a black belt. Matt is amazing and I can't wait to start competing. Brandon the boxing coach is amazing to work with and to learn from. Once I have a car (as a currently bike) I will join the Krav Maga or MMA classes as this high quality gym has so much to offer. read more

Absolutely incredible Krav Maga and BJJ belt programs! BJJ has a world champion instructor! Most of my classes were practically one on one with the instructor, I would consider it private lessons for price of group! Very knowledgeable, best equipment around, all brand new, and very friendly staff! I had purchased a membership, but then changed jobs far away and was no longer driving by Spar so they let me put my membership on hold ( over a year ) and I still have a credit to go back for another month! Highly recommend! read more

My brother and I have been training over at Spar for a little over a year and we've had a great experience. The coaches and professors are very welcoming, supportive, and intelligent. I've spent most of my Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu training with Coach Sean. His classes are well organized and planned out, bringing a new challenge to overcome each week. With confidence I can say if you're looking for a new place to train that has knowledgeable Coaches and Professors, Spar Self Defense is a very good option. read more

SPAR is by far the best Martial Arts school in WNY. They offer Krav Maga, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Kickboxing and Women's Only Self Defense classes! The instructors are ALL very knowledgeable and welcoming, with years of experience and training. The schedule is awesome and they offer a variety of classes for kids and adults. The school is very clean and the mats are cleaned and sanitized daily. SPAR is a family friendly atmosphere! You definitely need to check it out! You will not be disappointed! read more

Just completed Women's Self defense with Jen and Robyn. Was initially very apprehensive, but once they started my anxieties were alleviated. Both instructors are very patient and supportive, you feel empowered walking out of this class , every class. They help you challenge yourself in such a positive manner. Along with teaching you how to protect yourself. It's a win win. A great experience and would recommend every woman of all ages, shapes and sizes to do this !!! read more

My daughter and I took the women's self defense class (which is a totally separate room from the gym). The 2 female instructors were so compassionate and knowledgeable. It was amazing and we learned so much. I am recommending it to all our family and friends. I feel much better knowing my daughter now has this knowledge. You don't need any skills to take this class. There is no pressure to join anything after the class. Do yourself and learn how to protect yourself! read more

I recently started attending the Women's Self Defense class with my 18 & 21 year old daughters. After every class we left feeling like we learned something new to help empower us as women. Coach Jen and Coach Robin both gave great demonstrations, direction and situation awareness. They both made us feel comfortable, while also keeping us aware self defense is a skill that could potentially save our lives. I would definitely recommend this class! read more

I started attending Spar four years ago with my son and it continues to be our favorite place to be! The atmosphere is encouraging and upbeat with so many good role-models for my son who has progressed from the kid's belt class to the MMA and BJJ classes. As a teacher, I especially appreciate the attention to detail, enduring patience, and differentiation the coaches provide in each class. Spar ROCKS! Amy C. read more