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    SPAR Self Defense

    4.8 (13 reviews)
    Open 9:00 am - 8:30 pm
    Updated 2 months ago

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    Jamie E.

    I could not have more wonderful things to say about this place. I came here for a company self defense class, set up by my coworker at HUNT. Only about 8 people attended but honestly thought that was the perfect amount. Bill is such a great guy and a wonderful instructor. He is very patient with a room full of women with tons of questions & about to flip him over their shoulder. I really learned a ton in only 2 hours. I am writing this a day after attending and I am sore. Likely because I have never done something like this before. I really feel like I can beat some ass! After one session! If I didn't live an hour away I would totally take the classes here. The atmosphere is awesome and so so clean. Their simulation room is amazing and I'm sure people learn so much here. It's super empowering and a great experience! If anyone is considering this, just do it. I swear you will not regret it.

    White belts!!

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    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
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    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
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    2 years ago

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    3 years ago

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    8 years ago

    Helpful 4
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    8 years ago

    Helpful 2
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    5 years ago

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    7 years ago

    Terrible first impression. Unorganized new-customer intake. Typical low quality Buffalo customer service.

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    8 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    7 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    11 years ago

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    Review Highlights - SPAR Self Defense

    My class and I took a 1 hr long Women's Self Defense class with trainers Jennifer and Ashley, and we all loved it.

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    Lake Effect Martial Arts

    Lake Effect Martial Arts

    4.6(11 reviews)
    4.3 mi

    I'm a black belt with 20 years experience in BJJ Dropped in last year while visiting from out of…read moretown. Had a blast training at the Friday open mat, and was really touched that a couple of my fellow lady practitioners went out of their way to make an appearance knowing I would be there. If / when I am in Buffalo or the Western New York area, this is the spot to train.

    I'm a black belt and was a student for about 6 years trying to leave to train elsewhere. I wrote…read morethe owner a letter explaining I'd be ending my membership. I wanted to broaden my training and take a hiatus but still drop back in for open mats and the occasional class. Instead of acting like a mature business owner, Deacon Mike got physical and escorted me out. They come off as kind honest people until you mention training at other schools. The reason I'm going out of my way to write this review is to warn people to steer clear of this twisted academy. A couple of the many reasons I'm leaving a one star review because this school operates under an alternative agenda. They take advantage of kind people. The academy is not inclusive. I have witnessed misogynistic characteristics and anti LGBTQ comments by the owner, Mike. Two of their instructors have domestic violence history, one of which runs the kids BJJ program. To leave the school you must turn in a letter stating so. I handed my letter to leave the school to the owner, who reacted in a hot headed way. Meaning, this is when my jacket was grabbed and I was thrown out. This is after 6 years at the school. The owner pushes his religious beliefs on people, and deflects issues as somebody else's fault. He likes to label others' problems as having "victim mentality" and not his prerogative. He is immature, manipulative, and acts like he cares until you might decide to train elsewhere.

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    Lake Effect Martial Arts - A very proud promotion day at Lake Effect. Our Coaches, our team, our family.

    A very proud promotion day at Lake Effect. Our Coaches, our team, our family.

    Lake Effect Martial Arts - Proud to be with Team Checkmat BJJ

    Proud to be with Team Checkmat BJJ

    Lake Effect Martial Arts - Kids BJJ Class staying cool in the summer

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    Kids BJJ Class staying cool in the summer

    Pride Martial Arts Academy - Pride Martial Arts Academy logo

    Pride Martial Arts Academy

    5.0(6 reviews)
    2.3 mi

    I decided I wanted to take a kickboxing class and groupon had a deal for this location. I went into…read morethis place and took classes alone and I've got to say, one of the best decisions I've made. It gives you a super intense work-out and I always feel so stressful and relaxed after (even if I dread coming here sometimes after a long, hard day). The teachers/employees here are super nice and they will walk you through everything. The students that join the classes are also very welcoming. Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and do not be afraid to ask questions and push your limit. They're all supportive and they want to push you to succeed. They won't make you do more that you can't. Definitely give this place a try if you're trying to look for some fun way to work out! P.S., they have classes for kids too. I always see kids having a blast and leaving this place happy.

    This is going to be a tricky review. Why? Because I am biased and I am a student here. I want you…read moreto join. (however only certain folk. See "Who I believe this place is for") I know that reviewing a place where one works out is vastly different than where you go eat occasionally. I've been going for about 20 months now and I feel ready to review this place. I give this place 5-stars because I have gotten clear on what I want out of this place and I get what I put in. Why I chose this particular school and am sticking with it: 1. I am a mid-30 year old working gal that has lived in Buffalo for 8 years now. I grew up in Southern California. I decided to do martial arts because it's on my bucket list. I did it for several years as a teenager and did not quite get to my black belt. In fact, I was that spaz of a teenager that joined several schools. From Tang So Doo (Chuck Norris's style I think) to Kung Fu. Instead of beating myself up for quitting I decided to finally join a school. Also, important to note I enjoy movement. So I do other things like meditating, light yoga and working out at the gym. Those things I do to help my martial arts. 2. (This one took time for me to evaluate) The area was important because I knew the attitudes would reflect a balance of goal oriented no-excuse (or very minor excuses LOL) type of individuals. Folks who work hard for their money and have the challenge of juggling-their-other-lives-but-choose-to-be-here type of folk. I've lived enough. I've gone to yoga studios, gyms etc where the community of people ranged from a low self-esteem broke hippies to egocentric hipsters. I needed to be around more balanced folk. 3. (this one came later) The community of extended family. I have no family in this area. I am on my own. At times a bit of an introvert. For awhile, I just stayed home because I just outgrew some of my younger friends who wanted to do nothing but bar sports. (you know join a sports league and go drink). Not my thing. Over the course of 20 months this place has become a family to me. I go here to sweat and gain wisdom from the other students. (I say that with sincere intent) 4. Of course...The owner. Master Patterson has the advantage of youth (yet a very experienced martial artists). He is almost in his 30's (don't quote me) This is a positive. 4a. His growing vision of the school: it reflects where current martial arts is today. This school has shifted to being an MMA school (modern kick boxing, Thai boxing and Ju Juitsu). He also partnered up with an upcoming (freaking) amazing MMA fighter. Myles "the Fury" Jury. Therefore, he teaches practical more up-to-date martial arts on many levels. Yet, still maintains respect for the traditional stuff. I am being real here. The stuff in the movies is not real. let's learn stuff we can use in real life. It's never going to be a flashy move when it comes to self-defense. You will be learning from a technical and gifted teacher. He does a good job of bridging that understanding of certain concepts IE. why we do traditional forms to its practical use of a movement that maybe you might use on the street (knock on wood you won't ever have to use it). He is also a tough but caring teacher. You'll sweat, learn and go home feeling good about yourself. At least I do. I have a very deep respect for this man and his journey of how he came to open the school. When you join, you'll everntually hear about it. Who I believe this place is for: 1. Families. This a family oriented school. One of their mottoes even reflects it: "Building a Safer Community One Family at a Time." There are a few families at this school where both kids and parents are student. I love and appreciate the school for how much it promotes family! (probably a lesson I needed to learn). A family that martial-arts-together, stays together, I say. 2. For the adults...If you're an adult in your 30's and above, you have to be wanting a significant change and be willing to allow someone else to push you to dig deep to want to improve your health. Also, allow your body and mind to go to another level of awesome. Also, be opened to the support you get from the other students. It really is a community. Recognize that martial arts is a life long journey. It can help you in other areas of your life. It can help (f you want it) in a positive way alleviate stress, create balance and mental clarity. You have to want those things for yourself. I am a pragmatic woman. When I took this as a teen, I was mega fit. I am not mega fit. However, I am loving how fit I am compared to a couple years ago. I feel great! Coming here, I would hope you have this attitude: be in it for the long haul (at least a few years). Also, there are a few (I call my elders, in my mind ;) ) that keep it real with me. It's a safe space to discharge some negative energy (if need be) and STILL have the support of good people. Come on over already and train with us. Be well!

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    Pride Martial Arts Academy - Pride Martial Arts Academy logo

    Pride Martial Arts Academy logo

    Pride Martial Arts Academy - Pride Martial Arts Academy logo

    Pride Martial Arts Academy logo

    Pride Martial Arts Academy - Pride Martial Arts Academy logo

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    WNY Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness

    WNY Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness

    5.0(7 reviews)
    9.4 miNorth Buffalo

    Everything in my previous review stands. What I would like to add here is a bit about the kids…read moreprogram at WNY MMA. For a long time I saw the kids program from a distance even though I train with the two people who coach the kids (and love training with them). When I had my best friend's 5yo stay with me for two weeks though, I got a very good look at how the kids program runs and really want to share that experience to help others looking for a good, safe, supportive environment for their kids to blow of steam and gain self-confidence. There are five class options per week: 2 days of jiu jitsu, 1 day of wrestling, and 2 days of kick boxing. Coach Matt and Coach Cavemen start the kids with warmups and stretches, then do games and some time focused on technique. The kids have an absolute blast, are encouraged to engage each other respectfully, and are rewarded with high fives and the chance to earn class champion. D was a little uncertain at first. He was visiting so he didn't know the other kids except for one he met right before his first class. Over the course of the next two weeks both coaches were able to draw him out of his shell until he was just as enthusiastic as the other kids. They were aware of his body language and often realized that when he just stood there not participating it was because he was unsure how to do whatever they were doing, so one of them would come over and walk him through whatever it was. Both coaches are great with the kids and have a ton of patience (on top of both being excellent at the techniques they are teaching). There are two age group options and both groups are full of kids who clearly love being there. I've been training here for over a year and am really glad that I got a chance to experience another aspect of the gym that I hadn't paid close attention before. I would definitely recommend this as a great experience for kids.

    I have been going to this gym for almost 2 years now. both of my instructors left the gym I was at…read morebefore to train here. All in all we had about 10 guys leave my old gym to come to WNY MMA & Fitness. I was actually resistant to leaving at first because my old gym is where i STARTED training so I felt kind of obligated to stay, but there was nobody my size to train with(230 pounds) and nobody with any experience either. So glad I left! We get about 30 guys in every BJJ class and the experience level ranges from brand new guys to guys who are brown belts and have been training for 9 years. The ages range from 16 to 53 in the adult classes. Weights of guys range from 120 in adult classes to close to 300 pounds. Everyone is super nice and down to earth. Definitely nice to be welcomed every time I walk into the doors. The striking and MMA classes are well attended and have great coaches and there is a women's fitness class too. The gym is about 7,000 square feet with 2,200 feet of mats, a cage, boxing ring, etc. If you are thinking about training MMA, BJJ or just want to get in shape i would highly recommend this gym! The have free trial classes do you have no excuse. See you there! Update: it's been a year since my post. We are moving to a 14,000 foot place in the same building as we are in now! 2 times as much space=2 times the fun!

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    WNY Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness - Head MMA Coach Erik Herbert about the win the KOTC World Title

    Head MMA Coach Erik Herbert about the win the KOTC World Title

    WNY Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness - Boxing fight night

    Boxing fight night

    WNY Mixed Martial Arts & Fitness - Strong girls of all ages

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    Strong girls of all ages

    Kinetix Combat Sports & Fitness

    Kinetix Combat Sports & Fitness

    5.0(2 reviews)
    66.6 mi

    I had come to Jamestown on a business trip and decided to check out the local academy because I…read morelove training whenever I can. I came in during the middle of the class and one of the professors greeted me warmly and encouraged me to get in on the class! I was really impressed with the class and the great instruction. In a small town, they really created a strong atmosphere for learning and community. The instructors were very clear on the details and went around and made sure we were executing them correctly, which is definitely not always easy to do with a large class. Even their fundamental classes had great details that a seasoned grappler can benefit from! Lastly, the sparring was great. People were friendly, competent, and competitive! In my rolls, I felt safe with my training partners and didn't feel anyone was trying to win at all costs. I highly recommend this place for all people and will be back if I'm ever in the area.

    One of the top things on my list of goals for 2017 was to finally begin some mixed martial arts…read moretraining, specifically - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Muay Thai. After moving to Warren, PA for work in January, I began my search for a place to train. Fortunately, about 30 minutes north of me in Jamestown, NY, I found Kinetix Combat Sports & Fitness. Kinetix offers BJJ and Muay Thai for both adults and youth - as well as a Women's Kickboxing class. For Jiu Jitsu - all of the instructors have their Black or Brown belts through the BJJ Revolution Team under Julio "Foca" Fernandez. For Muay Thai - all instructors are certified through the Thai Boxing Association of USA. For a beginner like myself - the smaller class sizes are a huge advantage, as I am able to gain more personal feedback and instruction during regular classes. Every partner or instructor I have ever rolled with or drilled with has been humble and patient with me as I try to improve my skills. After a few classes and getting to know the familiar faces, Kinetix starts to feel like family. Get in touch with Kinetix, come in for a class, and see what you've been missing out on. See you on the mat.

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    Kinetix Combat Sports & Fitness
    Kinetix Combat Sports & Fitness
    Kinetix Combat Sports & Fitness

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    Buffalo United Martial Arts - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

    Buffalo United Martial Arts

    5.0(2 reviews)
    11.5 miSouth Buffalo

    I need to update this review as I have been here a little under 2 1/12 months and I'm still loving…read morethe experience. Previously I wrote on my experience on the Muay Thai classes I have been taking with Kru Keith Forant and I still go to every class I can. Currently Coed Muay Thai is offered Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturdays with the addition of a ladies only class on Wednesday and Friday. I have learned so much and I can feel my body becoming leaner and stronger with the cardio that Muay Thai offers. I have also been doing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for about under 2 months and this is something I do not regret starting up. BJJ is taught by blackbelt Joshua Ketry and he was born to teach as I fell in love with BJJ after my first class. BJJ is offered Monday - Thursday and Saturday mornings. BJJ is a ground type of martials arts that deals with a lot of grappling to defend yourself against an attacker. The idea is that a smaller, weaker, person can defend themselves against a bigger, stronger, person by using techniques to achieve submissions by chokes and locks. I take all the classes as I feel incredibly empowered as a female to learn something that can help me if I ever find myself in a situation that would call for my BJJ training. The instructors are top notch and the students are there to learn and help other students achieve the same thing there are, to be better than you were yesterday. I highly recommend checking out BUMA if you are looking to get into Muay Thai, BJJ or Judo whether it be for bullying, defense or just an amazing work out.

    This gym is amazing they truly offer something for the whole family. My sons take Muay Thai,…read morewrestling, and we take BJJ together. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has the ability to build confidence, calmness, strength (both inner and outer), stamina, and character. In order to realize these benefits however, you must have the right coaches and teammates. And that is exactly what you'll find at BUMA.This is a true family environment that starts at the top and is felt through all coaches and members. Every single coach at this gym cares about your personal development both on and off the mat, and everyone I have trained with shares the same values: A sense of building a better person, a better community and therefore having a positive impact on our world.

    Photos
    Buffalo United Martial Arts - Worm Guard, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

    Worm Guard, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

    Buffalo United Martial Arts - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

    Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

    Buffalo United Martial Arts - Muay Thai

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    Muay Thai

    SPAR Self Defense - boxing - Updated May 2026

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