New York Self Defense Academy

Did a free trial with my boyfriend. We were hooked! The space is a little uncomfortable to be in, but seriously its a minor complaint. it is my ONLY complaint as a spoiled gym goer with nice facilities, etc. Sensei is really down to earth and funny. He taught us a lot of neat things and the pricing is extremely fair.

First off, I would like to say that prior to my joining New York Self Defense Academy I had never taken any self-​defense classes or so-​called martial arts classes.
I decided to take advantage of the free trial by calling up and Sensei Avi introduced himself and asked my name and then said I could come in the next time they were having class. From the first class I became enthralled with the environment. The fellow members are great and I have a new best friend that goes on the same days that I do so we can spar with each other. This location is right near my college and the classes are at reasonable times after the school and work day has winded down.
Lastly, I would like to comment on the ways Sensei Avi teaches the class because I feel that this is the most important and most noteworthy factor that should convince everyone reading this review to take a free trial class. I had originally come to class to build confidence and Sensei Avi has helped me take another step towards this goal of mine goal every week. He tells you what you are doing wrong by stepping into your shoes and reviewing the techniques until you say you understand. Most of all, I can honestly say he is a true teacher that knows the techniques so well that he wastes no time organizing ideas in his head about what to teach, but rather how to teach them.
I remember on one occasion I kept saying that I wasn’t strong enough to do a move or something along those lines since I am the smallest, in terms of weight and build, in the classes I attend, and Sensei Avi came to me and said that I could do it and said that can’t didn’t exist in his vocabulary. This was especially inspiring because he actually believes in you if you want to put the work in and after he repeatedly showed me the move I actually learned how to do it!
I would wholeheartedly recommend New York Self Defense Academy to anyone looking to learn practical defense techniques in a friendly, professional environment with an excellent, knowledgable teacher.

I took advantage of a free trial back in March 2015 and was immediately hooked. I had studied Krav Maga previously, as well as other disciplines (JKD, Muay Thai, BJJ and Western Boxing.) Although the previous schools I trained with were all first rate, I sincerely consider New York Self Defense Academy the best of an excellent bunch. Sensei Avi Avramcheyiv is simply a born teacher. His instruction comes from his practical experience fighting terrorists, and instills his hand to hand techniques into his Krav system. It is totally applicable to New York City streets and situations, from physical assaults, weapon threats or random attacks.
I’m a retired NYPD detective who spent many years of my career in active undercover and plainclothes assignments, from the roughest streets (East New York/​Brownsville) to the crazy drunken club and bar brawls in Midtown Manhattan. How I wish I had had studied this superior self defense fighting style in those dangerous days.
I’m now a licensed private detective and have all the confidence in the world working throughout the 5 boroughs and beyond, whether providing executive protection (body-​guarding) or conducting covert surveillance in an unfriendly environment. New York Self Defense Academy has provided me with the self defense skills I need to keep my clients and myself safe.

This review is about my experience with Krav Maga. I came here because there was a good deal on Groupon for 2 months unlimited classes and have been attending classes regularly (Tues, Thurs, and Sun) for 2 months. Each class was challenging and fun; you definitely learn something new every class.
Sensei Avi is patient, courteous, professional, and has a sense of humor. Classes are 1 hour long (Tuesdays and Sundays), except for Thursday where classes are 1.5 hours long. Classes are always interactive because you are paired of with somebody 1v1 to engage in the technique that Sensei Avi wants you to practice. Each technique typically runs for 3 – 5 minutes depending on the involvement and complexity. Time passes by way to quickly because you’re busy having fun. During each practice of the techniques, Sensei Avi does come by to assist you to make sure you’re practicing correctly.
The lessons and techniques I learned from this school are invaluable, and will be something that comes to you almost second nature. Of course, the more you practice and attend the classes, the more fluent you’ll be.
I currently have to stop taking classes due to upcoming trips, but I hope to be back. I highly recommend coming here for Krav Maga, and I believe if you call you can schedule a free class to try it out. It’s definitely worth a try. I was hooked after my first class.

This is by far the only place to send your children or go yourself for excellent krav maga karate and self defense classes !! Avi is incredible. Sent my kids here for camp and I’m highly impressed. Very professional very friendly. Love it here!

Hi my name is Zanni. Since I could remember I always wanted to learn Martial arts but growing up in Greece I was told I could not because I wore glasses. When I came to the United States I asked and was told that I could learn Martial arts even with my glasses. I was ready to join Tae kwon do but a friend of mine changed my mind and told me about Krav Maga. I did some research on this Military system and since I was in the Greek Navy for 6 years I decided to try it. I did the free trial and from the first 5 minutes I felt great and everyone was like a family. I was very impressed with how the instructor Sensei Avi was so motivated to teach us. He is a great instructor and I’m so happy I chose to learn Krav Maga. After 3 months of attending classes I can honestly say I’m addicted and I feel great. I’v learned so much and continue to learn more. My goal is to one day receive my black belt in Krav Maga.

Avi prepares you to fight against terrorists so bar fights and muggings will seem like child’s play. In all seriousness, if you didn’t do any martial arts before coming here, Avi will quickly bring you up to speed in a very short amount of time. A month in and I’m confident I can handle myself in a threatening situation (against someone who hasn’t taken the class, of course).

You want to learn how to defend yourself? This is the spot. It’s very intense and no bullshit. Remember pain doesn’t not hurt only Krav Maga does.

I’ve been in the Active Krav Maga class for the past year. I love it. Learned simple, effective, and natural-​feeling self defense techniques, while at the same time I got excellent aerobic exercise.

I“ve been coming to Zumba classes here for about a year and a half. I really enjoy the classes; the instructors are consistently good and bring a lot of positive energy to the sessions, which is a great motivator. The classes are for women only, and the atmosphere is like a fun party, although we are definitely getting a good workout. The room is smallish but it is usually not too crowded. Monday nights with Sylvia, who is super high-​energy and has been at NYSDA for almost two years, are the most popular but I like all the teachers.

If you’re looking for self defense that actually works this is the place to go. It’s the real deal. The fitness classes are awesome too with great instructors that really motivate you and look like they’re having fun doing it.

I love this guys they have a lot of passion to the art that they do, and its reflects the session.
They teach you not only the dance of martial arts but really how to defend your self.
i will defiantly will recommend to my friends.