The mentor there is one of the best teachers I have trained with. Super nice, calm and attentive. Highly recommended if you live in Shadyside.

I cant say enough about Ryer academy and all the amazing teachers there. My daughter started there at age 3 and is now 8 and still loves it and enjoys every class. The school has not only given her physical skills, body awareness and self defense tactics, but it has also given her confidence and has developed her character. For anyone thinking of karate for themselves or their child, Ryer academy is a special place!

Definitely one of the best martial arts academies in Pittsburgh. I have noticed a significant improvement in my strength and overall fitness since joining here 9 months ago. The classes, though challenging, are insanely fun ! What sets this academy apart from the other fitness centers I have tried in Pittsburgh, is the owner and trainer of the place - Josh. Just an amazing trainer and an amazing person - always pushes you to improve and to strive to be better. I feel like, since joining here, not just my fitness but other areas of my life have improved as well. Its just awesome ! If you havent yet, you have to try these classes !

I wrote a review a few years ago - and what I said before is still true except now my son has been going to this academy for 7 years instead of 3 years:This is a great place for well-rounded instruction. My son has attended here regularly from the ages of 6-13. In addition to gaining valuable physical skills and physical confidence, my son has maintained core strength and actively practiced various methods of verbal defense. Respect is a strong value. High expectations are set while maintaining an entirely positive atmosphere. The policies are now very clearly spelled out. The owner is very flexible and communicative. All the instructors are of exceptional quality. Unlike other sports team activities that seem to demand that you dedicate your life to them, Ryers flexible schedule has allowed us to maintain consistent participation in martial arts for years, with no stress.

Among all the classes our four year old twins attend, Martial Arts class atRyer Academy is by far our favorite. In addition to being the cutest thingto watch toddlers while they passionately learn (in their own words) how to become ninjas, it is an activity that not only helps them physically butcontinuously 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!

We love Ryer; below is a not of gratitude that we sent to them recently.--------------------------I want to extend my sincerest thanks and appreciation for the incredibly high quality of experience that you offer. Every week my husband and I watch the classes and are amazed at the depth and value of the lessons that you teach the kids. We enrolled our daughter because it seemed she needed to bolster her confidence, and to feel more physically secure & comfortable in her body, but we did not anticipate that she would also be learning essential life lessons as well. (As we sit on the sidelines, we are absorbing them too!)Since we are not religious, weve occasionally wished for the kind of communal, spiritual gathering that church offers. Im serious when I say that what you offer is better than church! Every one of your teachers is strong, patient, adept, encouraging, and positive. The way you all respond to all the kids, including those with serious challenges, with deep respect and firm guidance, is truly moving and a lesson unto itself.We are so happy to have found Ryer Academy and cannot thank you enough. Our daughter loves your classes, and so do we.

The staff is super friendly and welcoming, the atmosphere is very motivating, and the work out is great. The kickboxing class is non-stop activity and you really feel like you did something with the workout, plus they make sure youre doing the exercises in the right way so you dont hurt yourself. I would recommend them to anyone looking for something fun, motivating and tough.

Not sure where the negative review came from - especially since it is posted in April when there was absolutely no ice left in Pittsburgh. My kids participate in the martial arts program, and Josh has always been professional with me as a parent. With the kids, he is wonderful as an instructor and personally. He runs an exemplary program, which is borne out by the large numbers of students (kids and adults) who are there for the long-term. Especially with the kids, the emphasis is on verbal martial arts to de-escalate situations, and using the physical martial arts only as a last resort. The studio is always clean, with extra mats out in the winter to help keep the hallway floors dry. We are very happy with the program, Josh, the other instructors, and the way the studio is managed and run.

I started attending kickboxing classes here in March and Ive slowly become addicted! All of the instructors are fantastic and they always keep the workouts interesting. The facilities are beautiful- very new and clean. I love working out here!

The instructors are amazing in the kids martial arts classes. They teach the kids to respect themselves and others, self defense via Kali (Philippine) martial arts and incorporate anti-bullying strategies to avoid being a victim (or an instigator). The teachers inspire the kids to work hard, stay focused and they mix in games that teach skills to keep the kids entertained. Awesome awesome place!

Our 3.5 year old daughter and 4.5 year old son have been going here for the past 6 weeks. Have already noticed a more accountable behaviour at home. The instructors are very patient yet calm-assertive with our kids and it works.

My two high-energy children (ages 6 and 9) participated in the youth classes at Ryer Martial Arts Academy. They both had excellent experiences there, and they have developed a love for martial arts as a result. The children learn not only martial arts, but they also learn about respect, self-control, discipline, honesty and courtesy, among other things. One of the things that stands out about Ryer is that Joshua Ryer not only talks to the children about how to behave, he models it. He sets a positive, calm, friendly tone, and this permeates throughout. When children are not listening, some adults are inclined to raise their voices (at soccer, swimming, other martial arts schools etc.). I never saw this kind of behavior at Ryer Martial Arts . My boys got to exercise and have fun. They learned self-defense, improved their self-control, and self-discipline and built their confidence. Moreover, they saw Josh and the other instructors model self-discipline, confidence, and a respectful attitude through their conduct.We have moved from Pittsburgh, and one of the few things we will miss are the classes at Ryer. Thanks to their time at Ryer Martial Arts, the only activity my boys have specifically requested in our new city is martial arts. Ryer Martial Arts Academy will be a tough act to follow.

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.

I started going to a different CrossFit facility when I moved to Pittsburgh last summer. However, I am so glad that I came to Ryer. First and foremost, the trainers are all super friendly, supportive, and invest in your success. They try to always make sure you do the movements correctly and build strength in a safe and strategic manner. Secondly, the facility is clean and tidy (which is something really important to me), and there is enough space for a solid amount of people to work out. This is far above and beyond the last gym I went to in multiple respects. I feel comfortable and welcomed here, and love the karate studio upstairs and that there are clean showers and locker facilities. I am glad that I found this place, and will look forward to being a member for a long time!!!

This is a high quality training experience for both children and parents. Our then 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 his little sister joined soon thereafter. They now take classes twice a week and love it.The instructors are completely 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. The kids have regular discussions in class about how to communicate effectively, conflict management, and managing bullies. 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 are reminded 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 very spacious and have showers.I cant say enough about Josh Ryer and his staff. I have given this my highest recommendation to my friends and those who have joined have become converts as well.

I come here for cross fit & olympic weight lifting. Im so happy to be at a place where no matter your skill level, the coaches take the time to help you improve. They make sure youre doing it right - proper form, proper technique, and they push you when they know you can go harder. Everyone is friendly and supportive. Love it here!

We have been members of Ryer Martial Arts Academy since 2009. What a fantastic place! All four of our sons (started at ages 3,3,5,7) have steadily climbed the ranks of Counterpoint Tactical System. The confidence and skills they have learned increase their ability to handle themselves with discipline and control, as well as giving them the basis they need to stand up to bullying they encounter in their lives. Our children love Ryer and so do we!

I suppose its impossible to please everyone all the time, but even so, the 1-star review from David W is fabricated.I have never had a negative experience at the school, and every instructor I have spoken to has been professional, friendly, and welcoming. Likewise with the students and their families. The experience offered at the school is reflected in the positive environment they foster, and I find it very hard to believe that David W was treated in the manner he is accusing.Anyone who doubts the efficacy of the positive attitude that Josh and his staff engender have clearly never noticed the classes full of returning and new students each day.

Worth every penny. We are so pleased to have our children in Joshs martial arts classes. In addition to the technical skills being taught, Josh encourages character development with the expectation that children translate lessons learned into all areas of their lives. Whats amazing is that all of this is accomplished while the kids are having an absolute blast. Ninja Jungle is our kids favorite game to play :)

Ryer is the real deal. Ive done boxing, kick boxing, and krav maga at locations across Pittsburgh, and Ive 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 theyve 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 students 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!

I love Ryer Martial Arts Academy!!!Ive had an amazing experience in the months Ive been going to train there. The staff is amazing, encouraging and supportive. Its the first time in my live Ive been constant with training!I have recommended it to friends who have also had a very good experience, and specially with the staff!

I been a member for 2 years of Ryer Martials Academy and still going.. I can just say if you want a excellent workout this is the place to go.. I have lost over 15 lbs since I started at Ryer Academy. Each week I look forwarded to going to kick boxing class. Josh and the staff are the most wonderful people you can ever meet, they are so supportive and helping you along.. Thank you Josh and Staff for all that you do and for your support. .. Ryer Martial Arts Academy rocks!!!

Ive been coming to Ryer Academy for their Cardio Kickboxing classes for almost 3 years now. My experience here has been stellar. The key to sticking with a workout plan is finding something you love, so you dont have to force yourself to go everytime, and youll be more likely to stick with it. The folks at Ryer make is so enjoyable that I cant wait to come back for more. I could have joined a dozen gyms and promptly quit. But the environment at Ryer is so healthy and supportive that I dont want to quit. Josh and Kristy are fantastic instructors, and the participants in the class are friendly and welcoming as well. The class is fast paced [with alterations for newbies] and gets your blood pumping. And theres something about kicking and punching that really helps with my stress levels.Nobody is too weak, and no one is made to feel unfit. If anything, confidence grows immensely within the first few classes, as you do things you never thought you could.I have no hesitation in recommending Ryer Academy to anyone. I am not being compensated in any way for this review.

This is a great place for well-rounded instruction. My son has attended here regularly from the ages of 6-9. In addition to gaining valuable physical skills and physical confidence, my son has maintained core strength and actively practiced various methods of verbal defense. Respect is a strong value. High expectations are set while maintaining an entirely positive atmosphere. Although I was a little unclear on the policies when we first enrolled, the policies are now very clearly spelled out. The owner is very flexible and communicative. Im grateful for one time that the owner went out of his way to briefly help another son of mine who was having a bullying issue, even though hes not enrolled in the program. All the instructors are of exceptional quality. Unlike other sports team activities that seem to demand that you dedicate your life to them, Ryers flexible schedule has allowed us to maintain consistent participation in martial arts for years, with no stress.

My 8 yr old son loves it. The instructors are very patient and great with kids. Ive never seen any macho stuff, which I really appreciate.

I visited Ryer Academy in July 2012 with my youngest son, as we were interested in helping him learn self discipline through the practice of martial arts. We were respectfully greeted by the owner, Josh Ryer, and were invited to a free week of classes in their excellent facilities. We werent pressured into enrolling, as Josh was and is always very mindful of how he conducts himself around others and is very considerate of the families who choose Ryer as the place for their childrens instruction. Since then, we have always felt welcomed. Josh and the other instructors are the kind of people who we feel like weve always known, and who make Ryer Academy a place we look forward to going each week. Somehow, they always have time to have a conversation with myself and my children. We were so pleased with the how Josh and the other pre-k instructors conducted class that we also enrolled our oldest son, who absolutely loves it. Our daughter, now 2, begs to take class and we honestly cant wait until shes old enough to join her brothers. Our boys have learned so much from being in an environment that fosters respect for others in addition to the obvious top notch martial arts/self defense instruction. Thank you, Josh, for making Ryer Academy a wonderful place.

The facilities are immaculate. Everyone is courteous. Classes are challenging and the staff is continuously supportive. I can offer only praise.

I have been a member of Ryer Academy since the fall 2010, and I absolutely love it. While Ryer has many different programs to offer I have been a dedicated cardio kick boxer. I absolutely love the workouts. It is a great mix of cardio, abs, kicking, and my personal favorite punching. No matter what type of mood I am in before class I ALWAYS leave feeling great. You do not have to be the most physical or active person to get started in the kickboxing class. I had never even worked out before I joined. The staff is extremely personable and the atmosphere is always friendly. I have made great friendships here at Ryer, and would recommend anyone come check it out for themselves.

I think that the review by David W is not a real review. The Josh Ryer I know could not be described as aggressive or disinterested. Rather, he exudes a positive calmness and sincere interest in his students and their wellbeing and development.My son and daughter have been taking karate classes at Ryer for 2 years. Josh is a wonderful and caring teacher. He establishes rapport with his students and works very hard to bring out the best in each student. He has built an incredible team of teachers who care deeply about their work with the students. They are exactly the type of people I want to have influencing my kids.The expectations at Ryer are high, but reasonable. Kids are given opportunities to show leadership and speak to their peers in class, but more importantly in my opinion, they learn how to be positive leaders outside of the Ryer community. They learn how to resolve conflicts peacefully. My daughter once said in the midst of venting about some drama among her friends, I wish all of my friends went to Ryer. Then we wouldnt have these problems. My son was a guest at a birthday party held at another karate studio here in Pittsburgh. After the party was over, the instructor said to my son, Do you take martial arts? When my son answered, yes, the instructor said, I can tell. I give Ryer a lot of credit for teaching my kids about how they represent themselves to the world.From a practical perspective, I appreciate Ryers flexible scheduling and opportunities to make up missed classes (due to vacation, illness, etc.)

My son attended classes at Ryers and LOVED it!!! When we told him we would be moving away he was excited to have a new house and a new school. The only thing that seemed to upset him was the idea of leaving Ryers. It is going to be hard to find a place that even comes close to this studio!! The instructors are so great with the kids! They really work on teaching their students to be well rounded individuals and not just the movements. They have a great balance of fun and structure. And they somehow manage to learn not only the students names, but the whole family! I cant say enough good things about Ryer Martial Arts Academy!! I highly recommend it!

I joined Ryer Martial Arts Academy in May, and I have been consistently impressed with the fitness programs that they offer. I have belonged to several different gyms and subscribed to a variety of workout plans over the years, but nothing has helped me to achieve the level of fitness that Ryer has in just a few short months. In fact, I went down a pants size without even trying to. While weight loss wasnt why I joined Ryer, I certainly dont mind feeling a bit slimmer. A long time runner, I joined Ryer because I wanted to try working out in a group setting as opposed to alone. What I found in both the Cardio Kickboxing and Crossfit classes was an energetic and attentive team environment that makes working out fun and personal. Josh, Preston, Mike, and the rest of the staff are experienced, dedicated and motivational coaches that help members reach their fullest potential. I recommend Ryer to anyone that is looking for a high-quality fitness experience!

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

I take the Adult Kenpo class and its a real blast. Each instructor for this class is unique and brings an added element of their own philosophy to the curriculum which I cherish. Since my beginning there, I have learned that marital arts is not just about knowing how to throw a good punch or kick. It also has much to do with ones ability to control their environment and gaining the confidence that goes with that. Im more of a lover than a fighter, but its amazing how much these classes have changed my everyday life. Its the simple things like keeping better balance on dodgy pat bus commutes as well as the big things like being in better shape. Its all part and parcel with Ryer Martial Arts Academy.

Great gym! Staff is really helpful and its really clean!!

Great facility, excellent trainers, very organized- best Crossfit I have been to. the WODs are always challenging and always changing which I like. Highly recommend!

Ive been going here for a year and I love it. The staff, Josh Ryer, the owner, and community are all very friendly and caring. I wouldnt want to live without this place!Mike Guffey is a fantastic and motivating coach at Crossfit Shadyside along with all the other fine coaches. They do a good job at ensuring the workouts and programming they create will help all the members at the gym improve their technique, skills, and fitness.Josh Ryer is a nice and friendly guy, who is very passionate about the martial arts he teaches.The sidewalk around the building is always salted during the winter! Great job.

Ryer Martial Arts Academy has provided me with wonderful and enjoyable experiences during my brief stay in Pittsburgh. There’s always been a friendly and welcoming atmosphere whenever I’ve gone in for a class. The instructors are well prepared and open to questions about what they are teaching. I’ve rarely felt overwhelmed by the lessons, since the instructors do a great job of making them doable and connecting them to previous material. As someone who’s never done any sort of martial arts or self-defense before, I feel that I’ve learned a lot and built a solid foundation after a few weeks of hard work. I was also able to attend a weekend seminar here and meet the CTS founder Zach Whitson, whom I learned a lot from as well. Pittsburgh is lucky to this facility and I’d highly recommend Ryer Martial Arts Academy one hundred times over.

Before I left Pittsburgh this April, I spent almost two years in Ryer Martial Arts Academy. I attended the kickboxing class since 2013 July, started to learn CTS since 2014 Jan, and finished the Crossfit introduction class. The time I spent in Ryer Academy is one of my best memories. I strongly recommend it if you are interested in martial arts or fitness class.I learnt CTS because I want to protect myself, and it was a wise decision. CTS is not for competition, it is for fighting in real life. The best thing of CTS class in Ryer Academy is teachers are extremely knowledgable. They not only teach you the standard skills and movement, but also help you understand how to adjust and apply those skills considering your personal strength and weakness and what situations you are in. Another great thing is students in this class are nice and helpful. People with higher belt are more than glad to help people with lower belt. What’s more, Josh invites Master Z to give seminars several times every year, which will expose you to high level martial arts skills.For kickboxing, the class is always well scheduled. You could work on your arms, abs, back, hip, and legs, and get good stretch. It was the class that made me stronger and more confident. I could not finish even one push-up or ten sit-ups before my first kickboxing class, but now I can see my biceps and abs. And my kicks and punches are much stronger now.I did not spend as much time in Crossfit class as in kickboxing and CTS, but I love how coaches are teaching it. They encourage you to try new things but also fully understand and support if you dont want to push yourself too much. You get challenges, but still feel relax.One more thing I want to mention is that you get more than what you learn there. You get friends. You get support. You get help and cares. There were so many moments that made my day that i don’t even know which example to put here. Just…even now, even I am already in China, when I think about everyone in Ryer Academy, I smile.All in all, I believe Ryer Martial Arts Academy is a great place with great people. If one day I move back to Pittsburgh, I will definitely become its member again.

I have been going to Crossfit Shadyside for about a year now and I absolutely love it! Mike is an amazing coach along with all of the other coaches and is always very motivating and helpful. Ive have learned so much from attending and have made some great friendships. In addition, all of my interactions with Josh have always been great as well.I had to laugh a little bit when I read David Ws review as I cant imagine it is actually real. I understand everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but anyone that has ever attended Crossfit Shadyside knows that it is not located in the basement, but on the first floor! I dont know if Ive ever seen Josh show someone around the Crossfit studio on the first floor, its always Mike! And Mike is awesome! Ive been to 3 different crossfit studios and this one is by far the biggest and the nicest! I gotta say makes me think that review is a little suspicious!

I have been a member of Ryer Martial Arts Academy for several years. When I initially joined I was immediately drawn to the cardio kickboxing class. It took only one class and one conversation with the owner, Josh Ryer, and I was hooked. The professionalism, friendliness and general concern for the members gave me something to appreciate at Ryer that I’ve never received from another facility.As time passed, I grew more and more fond of Ryer Academy and truly began to feel like I was part of the community. My overall fitness improved and I made solid friendships with people that I would have never otherwise met. When Josh decided to open up a Crossfit Gym downstairs, I apprehensively agreed to try it out. I was part of the first tune-up that Crossfit Shadyside had to offer back in January of 2012. I haven’t looked back since.My fitness has always been important to me but my experience at Crossfit Shadyside and Ryer Martial Arts Academy has taken it to a whole new level. It’s not just about getting a good workout in; it’s more about the community aspect that Josh and Kristy Ryer, along with the other staff members, have worked so diligently at creating. Day in and day out I have the incredible opportunity to train with and coach some of the most dedicated, inspiring, and remarkable people that I have ever met.Of course you can go to any gym or fitness facility and get a good sweat on. You can definitely be successful with your health and fitness goals no matter where you choose to train. But believe this… you’ll never get the high quality instruction, attentiveness of instructors, or encouraging environment that you do at Ryer Academy and Crossfit Shadyside. You’ll miss out on the “community” feeling and what it’s like to be surrounded by people that genuinely care for you and your goals. It is impossible to get that same feeling elsewhere.If you’re considering a fitness facility and aren’t sure where to go, I encourage you to walk through the door and see what Ryer Academy and Crossfit Shadyside has to offer.

6/19/2013 Edit »* Highly, highly recommend this place!* Great atmospheres, warm people, clean facility, and broad types of classes and times (yoga, kickboxing, cross-fit, martial arts.)* If you love Martial Art and you have a kid with a lot of energy (who doesnt?) boy or girl then you came to the right place! My son, TUDOR, is 5 years old and has been pulled into the Ryer Academy and fell in love with it from 8 months now. He just proudly had the test for graduation belt (Junior Yellow) last week.* I cant say enough good things about the school, the instructors, and the environment!!* Hearing parents from other places, all the others impressions and bad reviews I was looking carefully for a while for a good place for a boy that is into NINJA, SAMURAI, AVATAR and AIRBENDER)) and really want to learn martial art. It was asking me when he can start taking classes. I luckily found on the Ryer Academy, call them and promptly Josh, called me back and wrote me an email immediately. I was impressed from the beginning how they returning my call within 24 hours.* The good thing and was important, is that I did a surprise for my son, and didnt say a WORD were we will go. Josh Ryer let him attend FOR FREE a class in the beginning to see if he likes it!* After that Ryer Academy have been consistently impressed with not only the lessons, but how our son seems to care about something that he is achieving here. From the proud of being a student here, care about his instructors (he loves Josh and Davine) to the stripes and belt that he obtained only with HIS EFFORT!* It is a great place for him to learn not just great Martial Art but how to focus and express himself how to be organized. He remember what hes learned and put it to use at home and in school and prone to control his temper. He is learning how to focus on one task at a time, and also to use his words to control his emotions.* We appreciate the wide variety of options offered by the team at Ryers, and a program that allowed us flexibility in scheduling that this ACADEMY has it.* Josh and Kristy have created a community where everyone is welcome. It is a FAMILY here. Not only that they offer to the parent a great night out while the kids where there for 4 hours playing and having fun at the Ryer Academy for Valentine day!* Josh Rayer, the owner, David, Brendan and Rauhid (other great instructors) are fantastic! They are great in their unlimited energy that they invest in each day at the classes and just by playing the kids sit and talk about integrity, strength, friendship, in the spirit of martial arts.* Ryers also allows parents to observe the classes and it is fun to watch the kids learn and grow under the guidance of Ryers talented staff. The other plus is its very affordable! We have also UPMC discound if you work at UPMC!* I cannot recommend Ryers Academy highly enough!!* Everyone is warm, the facilities are clean, and they offer an array of classes and times (yoga, kickboxing, cross-fit, martial arts.)IULIA POPESCU AND NIC ALBU (Tudors parents)

Before I begin, I feel that I should mention that prior to joining Ryer Academy; I had zero martial arts experience, so for those of you in a similar situation, don’t let that deter you. I was originally just looking for a different way to get back in shape that did not involve working out at a crowded gym and had heard that Jiu-Jitsu was an amazing workout…I had always been interested in Jiu-Jitsu from watching the Gracie Family dominate the UFC and asked myself, “why not give it a try?”. I started doing some research on Jiu-Jitsu schools in the area which is when I saw that Ryer Academy was offering a free week of classes which meant I had nothing to lose. I showed up for my first free class pretty nervous, not knowing what to expect, but those nerves were quickly put to rest when Josh Ryer, owner and instructor, personally worked with me on some of the basics. After that first class, I was hooked! I asked Josh to sign me up and the rest is history. I have been training there for almost 10 months now and my only regret is not starting sooner.The Gracie Jiu-Jitsu program at Ryer Academy has been expanding since I joined and has built quite a reputation for itself within the martial arts community. Ryer’s smaller class size provides students with greater individual instruction which personally appealed to me and was actually one of the main reasons I joined…I figured I could learn just as much from a Blue Belt in a smaller class than I could from a Brown or Black Belt in a much larger class. In the short time that I have been part of the Gracie Jiu Jitsu program at Ryer Academy, I’ve learned so much! My time on the mat has provided me with a wealth of knowledge and numerous skills that are applicable to everyday life, and no I am not talking about fighting people. Gracie Jiu Jitsu is so much more than just takedowns, chokes and submissions; it is a lifestyle/philosophy that guides us so that we may live happy, healthy and balanced lives. This may sound corny and clichéd, and prior to my first class, I would have agreed, but I can personally say it has changed my life for the better! Up until a few months ago, I structured my life around the idea that “failure is not an option” which sounds good in theory, but this mindset was holding me back when I thought it was driving me forward. I never stepped out of my comfort zone and was scared to try new things due to the fear of failing, but Jiu Jitsu has taught me that it’s alright to fail and failure is nothing to fear because it is through our failures that we learn the most.The facilities at Ryer Academy are in a league of their own! The training rooms have some of the largest mat space I have ever seen which provides students with more than enough space necessary to work on every aspect of their Jiu Jitsu game. The school also has clean and spacious locker rooms for changing and showering after training. In addition to the enormous training rooms and locker rooms, the school also has a HUGE Crossfit gym which is where we do our Jiu-Jitsu conditioning.So for those of you who have always wanted to give Jiu-Jitsu a try, I encourage you to come out and give it a try! I promise that you will not be disappointed.Andrew M. Jones

I am a student in the adult Brazilian jiu jitsu program at Ryer Martial arts Academy. I took karate growing up but have been away from martial arts for many years as I am now 36. A good friend of mine told me about the program at Ryer and I decided to give the class a try. My initial impression of the facility was outstanding! The training area is huge! The academy has multiple rooms to accommodate different styles and sizes of classes at once while giving you the privacy to focus on your specific program. The changing rooms have various size lockers available and multiple clean showers available to clean up after class. The environment at the academy is phenomenal. There is a focus and intensity about the training rooms that you have to experience to understand. One thing that really stood out to me is how respectful the younger students are to each other and to the adults. In todays day and age that is very refreshing. The students all seem to have so much confidence in what they are doing and I attribute that to the instruction. Josh Ryer is the owner and one of the hands on instructors at the facility. Josh is extremely passionate about what he does and helping others to achieve their own goals. I have gained so much from my experience at Ryer. I am in better shape, more confident, more aware of my body and constantly challenging myself to do better and learn more about the art of jiu jitsu. The facility, the instruction, the atmosphere, just everything about this place is fantastic. I would highly recommend Ryer Martial Arts to anybody interested in training jiu jitsu. Come watch a class and see for yourself!! Hope to see you there!Jess Hartmann.

Friendly atmosphere and well planned classes.

The best!

Excellent Martial Arts Club!