Ryer Martial Arts Academy

"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!"

"I can't 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!"

"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, Ryer's flexible schedule has allowed us to maintain consistent participation in martial arts for years, with no stress."

"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. It's just awesome ! If you haven't yet , you have to try these classes !"

"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 weren't 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 children's instruction. Since then, we have always felt welcomed. Josh and the other instructors are the kind of people who we feel like we've 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 can't wait until she's 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."