I am from Texas and came to NY to spend the summer with my son. I needed a place to train and was fortunate enough to have found Atlas Jiu Jitsu. I have felt at home training here as the whole atmosphere follows a pattern of respect, friendliness, and excellent instruction. Professor Anthony (2nd degree black belt) is courteous and shows a sincere desire to help each student become better, even those visiting. The mats get cleaned and disinfected after each training session and there are showers for the students who wish to use them. There are plenty of options to accommodate different schedules and all sessions have plenty of students to make it a well rounded training experience. Overall, the best place Ive had the opportunity to train in.

I have trained at several schools in the area for a number of different reasons. They are all good, but Atlas is my go-to when Im in Albany. Professor Edward Anthony, the owner, is one of the most generous and thoughtful people I have ever met. The folks that train there are an absolute delight. Between the witty banter and the camaraderie, its simply impossible to have a bad day and train at Atlas. The academy is spacious, clean, and well-equipped. The number and variety of martial arts classes Atlas offers will get you into the best shape of your life. As far as the Jiu Jitsu goes, the countless medals that adorn the walls of the academy speak for themselves. I encourage you to try Atlas. You will find peace there. Go to Atlas and have the weight of the world lifted off your shoulders.

I highly recommend Atlas to anyone interested in trying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for the first time as a way to improve fitness, learn self defense that actually works, or just make new friends. This is also a great place for anyone who has some experience and is looking for a new place to train. It is a very welcoming environment and you will find whatever level of competition fits you from absolute beginners to college wrestlers. I started here three years ago with no experience at all in any sort or martial arts and it has been one of the best experiences of my life.If you are looking at this review, then you are curious, and if you are curious, you should go try out a class. This is the place to go in the Capital District. They have a really nice facility and you wont find a friendlier group of people. Once you try it, your only regret will be not starting sooner.

The place was so clean and everyone was nice teachers were so nice and taught the kids so well

I am a 40 year old male, and I started training at Atlas Jiu-Jitsu about 1 year ago. In that time I’ve lost about 25 lbs and kept it off, gotten off blood pressure medication, and been welcomed into a family of amazing people. I can’t stress enough the FAMILY part of it. Atlas was built by Coach Ed Anthony with family in mind. There is no ego here. Everyone is welcome, from young kids to adults, and everyone helps each other grow and get better together. People from all different walks of life, and even different countries train here together. In a time when there is so much division and unrest in our world, I can’t imagine a more perfect atmosphere. Atlas=Family.

Trained at Atlas on and off for almost 10 years. Amazing community, instruction, and facilities. Very friendly and supportive atmosphere. I would highly recommend for anyone at any level of experience. They have the best quality instruction if you’re new and want to learn. Ed is an amazing trainer and coach who cares about seeing every student reach their absolute best. Lots of high level practitioners to roll with for those who have experience and need a level up in their competition. The Jiu Jitsu, Strength training, nutritional coaching, kids program, kickboxing are all top notch. Nothing but great things to say about this place. Check it out, you will not be disappointed.

From the amazing facility to the amazing instructors to the family-like mentality of students and instructors, Atlas is the best in the game. Wether you’re looking to be a high level martial arts competitor or combat athlete, or just looking to learn some self defense or fitness, Atlas is the place for you. The true total package for all your martial arts goals.

Survived my first week of BJJ at Atlas! Amazing place to learn and grow. My favorite part is the diversity of the people attending the classes, all kinds of people from different walks of life gather here to exercise their passion for sport and growth. Love it!

Under the guidance of Coach Edward Anthony, Atlas provides an atmosphere that is exceptionally welcoming. Walking into an academy for the first time can be intimidating, but both coaches and practitioners alike make new comers feel welcomed and comfortable. Regardless of class size, you can expect individual attention from coaches during each training session.The Colvin Ave Atlas facility offers a huge training area that can facilitate even large classes. Furthermore, the academy is clean. Bathrooms, locker rooms, showers, and training areas are all meticulously maintained and frequently disinfected.

This gym has it all. Great staff, clean bathrooms and mats. Between the coaches and other members, my family has felt so welcomed. Atlas has helped my kids with their attitude and confidence. I recommend Atlas if you are looking for a team or family.. Coach Edward is amazing and has helped us so much. Great place and caring staff.

I love this place. It really is a tight-knit community and when you go, they make you feel like family. To illustrate Atlas and professor Anthonys impact on my life, Im including a fat pic from when I was at my heaviest, 320, and another pic after earning my first stripe at white belt after dropping down to 270 (and still going). I signed up after a lesson with someone who tapped me multiple times, with respect, even though I had a 100+ pound weight advantage-this really is an art where smaller people can compete against and defeat larger opponents. I was impressed with the schools teaching, from professor Anthonys incomparable instruction to the tips and suggestions from purple and brown belts who started out as white belts and share their knowledge with people like me, who come into the art getting winded during warm-ups and trying to survive the first few weeks of classes. I am so appreciative of the caring environment that professor Anthony has created and the care that the other students put into getting and giving their best effort, safely, each time we roll. I am lighter, my grip strength has improved, I feel healthier, more confident, stronger, more agile, and I still have a long way to go on my fitness journey, but I absolutely would not be where I am today without the impact of Atlas Jiu Jitsu. Come in and check us out-we have people of all ages and sizes, all skill levels, and we want to share this martial art and this sense of community/family with the Capital Region.

In my opinion, this is the best martial arts school in the region in terms of training, dedication, attitude and respect. My husband and son were welcomed there as a family and have been proud members of Atlas for almost a year now. The instructors, who are all highly-decorated martial arts practitioners, make sure that everyone in class learns the techniques and they truly care about their students in all possible ways. The schedule of classes is very accommodating and diverse. I absolutely recommend this martial arts academy to everyone, regardless of age or skill level!

I walked into the doors of Atlas about 5 years ago and immediately fell in love with the place. Amazing instruction, awesome team environment, great competitors, just a great environment all around. Everyone is supportive and friendly. A lot of places say things like “were a family” but don’t actually show you that, at Atlas you really are a part of a family.

My husband Jose really enjoys learning BJJ and kick boxing at Atlas. He has been a member for over 3 years and regular training at the school is a great way for him to handle stress and stay in shape. Coach Anthony, the instructors and everybody in the school make you feel welcome. We highly recommend this school.

Atlas is the perfect place for anyone. Professional and knowledgeable instructors with multiple belts and achievements.Weather youre looking for an outlet or simply a way to better your overall quality of life this is THE place.

Atlas Jiu Jitsu is a great place for anyone of any skill level to join. The coaching is top tier and they really work with you to make sure you understand what is being taught. Atlas isn’t just a gym, it’s like a family, and everyone in it supports and cares for each other.

If you want to learn REAL jitz come to Atlas. Not only do you get to learn from an absolute ox like Coach Ed who is an incredible dude in his own right but he creates an atmosphere that makes you wanna pull up to class, learn, roll and ultimately get better by training with quality partners and some nasty purple belts. Even though everyone’s a stud they are all good peoples never met a bad soul on the mats that’s there to tool on people. Anyone that shows up to Atlas is part of a community of people who love Jitz that are Trynna get better while helping everyone around get better as well.

Over the last two years Atlas has been like a home away from home. The quality of the coaching staff and instruction is second to none. Every training session is spent with great friends and that is what sets Atlas apart and makes it such a special place.

As someone who had no experience whatsoever in martial arts, but an interest most of my life, my experience at Atlas Jiu Jitsu has been beyond my expectations. On the first day that I came to the gym in November 2019, Ed greeted me personally and explained how the gym operated. I came in with zero martial arts experience and was given great instruction from the beginning from Ed and others at the school. Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, Ed utilized a Facebook group and Zoom classes to provide education for all members of the gym while gyms were still closed. This gym promotes a strong sense of community and respect among the members while encouraging learning and competition among teammates.

Atlas has been my home for 6 years I would choose no other bjj school. Professor Ed cares forHis students in and out of gym. Atlas=family that should say it all. Very welcoming gym everyone is there to help each other.

Hands down the best martial arts gym Ive ever attended. Ive done both BJJ and kickboxing here, and the coaching staff are welcoming and ready to assist in your training. It truly feels like a family once you walk in the doors.There is no other option for BJJ, kickboxing, or judo in the area for adults and kids; Atlas is the real deal.

Atlas Jiu Jitsu is an exceptional martial arts studio. It is rare to find a place that features serious and effective training as well as a safe and supportive environment to learn and become a better martial artist, not to mention a community of great people. Atlas has all of this, as well as a roster of experienced and talented teachers who know how to pass along their knowledge to students at any level of skill. Edward Anthony is the owner and lead instructor, and his level of personal care and dedication to his students is at the heart of what makes Atlas such an effective and enjoyable place. Whether you are just starting out, or are an experienced martial artist, Atlas Jiu Jitsu has a lot to offer you.

Atlas is not only a great gym to train at, but the people that train here have become like a second family to me. It is a great, positive atmosphere to learn in, whether your goals are to get in better shape or to become a world champion. Ed is a phenomenal instructor who truly cares about each and every one of his students. I highly recommend Atlas to anyone who is interested in either Jiu Jitsu or just looking for a fun way to stay in shape.

This gym has it all. Strength training, heavy bags, Rogue bikes, and the best bjj instruction in the Capital Region. The environment is super friendly and extremely clean! The mats are brand new Fuji mats the space is HUGE! Great place to learn bjj and a family friendly environment for any level of athlete. The head instructor Ed is very funny and spends his time breaking down all the techniques for every student in class. The training partners are great and nobody is ever trying to hurt their partner. In fact, if you are a problem you wont last. I would recommend this gym to anybody new or seasoned because there are classes for newbies and competitors. Cant say enough about this place. You just have to come see for yourself.

What a great experience Ive had with everyone at Atlas. From Ed/Coach to all the students — people were friendly, dedicated and quick to help me — and others (newer and more advanced) grow.I cant recommend Atlas enough.

Amazing place to learn Jiu Jitsu and change your life. So many wonderful athletes who will teach you technique and help you grow as an athlete. Everyone is family and helps each other. Ed is an amazing instructor who ensures each person learns and grows regardless of their size or ability. Its the perfect place to train.

I began my Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey at Atlas a year and a half ago. My experience at Atlas has been life changing in many ways. First off, I have lost over forty pounds and I am in the best shape of my life at forty two years of age. I have found the will in my training to push myself further than I thought was physically possible. At Atlas I have also found a community of positive people who support one another. We all celebrate our success together as we learn. Another important benefit from my training is the positive stress coping mechanism that is BJJ. After a tough day there is nothing I look forward to more than hitting the mats with my teammates at Atlas. It is truly therapeutic. Finally I would like to mention Edward Anthony the owner and head instructor. He has been an inspirational teacher, sounding board, and friend. I would recommend Atlas to anyone looking to reshape their life in a positive way.

I started about 2 years ago and aquired my blue belt from Ed. It was an amazing experience all the way through. From my first day sitting in my car exhausted after class realizing I knew nothing. To developing my BJJ strategy and game and winning double gold at a local tournament.Atlas has all the things you want in a gym. Equal no-gi and Gi classes. Wear whatever gi you want. Variety of class times. Every size, shape, strength, and skill of people to train with. I am moving now unfortunately, and hope to find a similar gym where I end up.

Not just a place to learn BJJ but a community of people I consider family now. Edward Anthony inspires me to be the best version of myself that I can be. The team (family) is right there with you during the journey pushing each other to work hard and achieve our goals! Ive never in my life met a friendlier just down right amazing bunch of people. I only wish I had joined sooner. Thanks to Edward and the Atlas family Im definitely a more confident and better person.

This place is so clean and welcoming Edward Anthony “owner” is like family.

My name is Angela Meglio and I started training at Atlas over two years ago.This was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life and I mean that in every sense of the word.Prior to Atlas I was very self-conscious, had low confidence and was dealing with some mental blocks after negative experiences in my life as a young woman.I began training and realized my strength and potential. Coach Edward Anthony and all of my teammates were the most supportive and respectful men I had ever encountered. Through them I began to learn, have fun and build my skill set as a budding martial artist.Fast forward to today; I train at both the Hudson and Albany locations. I train BJJ, Kickboxing, Judo and now Strength and Conditioning as well. I competed in more than 15 tournaments as a white belt and have medaled more times than I can count. I also am beginning my journey as an MMA fighter, proudly training under coach Ed and my teammates. I am in the best shape of my life mentally and physically and I am so grateful everyday for Atlas Jiu Jitsu.I would also like to note that I am a 25 year old 135 woman and that the instruction I have received has made me able to control and defend myself against men twice my size. Proper jiu jitsu instruction can benefit all women!Side note: The Albany location is a beautiful gym. Abundant mat space, quality heavy bags, locker rooms and waiting area. Good amount of parking as well.

Atlas is a fantastic place to learn and get better at BJJ. No matter what level you are, you are immediately part of the community. Everyone is willing to help you and offer a safe training environment to better yourself at BJJ and as a person. Would recommend to anyone trying to get into BJJ or already in BJJ.

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A GREAT FAMILY GYM LOOK NO FURTHER ! ATLAS IS THE PLACE. MY FAMILY AND I HAVE TRIED MULTIPLE GYMS AND FOUND THAT THEY ONLY WANTED TO KEEP ADDING TO THE PRICE OF MEMBERSHIP. WHEN WE FOUND ATLAS , I WAS AMAZED AT HOW ALL THE OTHER STUDENTS WELCOMED US WITH OPEN ARMS AND MINDS. IM AN OLDER MEMBER - BY OLDER I MEAN AGE - IM ALSO NOT THE BEST AT BJJ , BUT THE STUDENTS THAT ARE UNDERSTAND AND RESPECT MY ABILITIES OR LACK OF. ITS A GROUP OF PEOPLE THAT COME TO TRAIN AND LEARN AND MOST OF ALL HELP OTHERS LEARN AND GROW TOGETHER. ONE OF THE THINGS I LOVE ABOUT ATLAS IS THE FACT THAT IT TAKES MY BAD DAY AWAY. AFTER WORK WE ALL HAVE STRESS , WHEN I GO TO TRAIN , ALL MY DAILY WORRIES DISAPPEAR FOR AWHILE. WHEN CLASS IS OVER , IM NOT THINKING ABOUT THE BAD DAY I HAD. IM THINKING ABOUT THE GREAT CLASS I JUST HAD. I LEAVE I FEEL YOUNGER LOL. ALL I CAN SAY IS GIVE ATLAS A TRY , YOU WONT BE DISAPPOINTED !!! THANK YOU FOR READING AND I HOPE TO MEET YOU ON THE MAT !!!

Ive been going here just over 3 years. Its a great environment, no matter your age or fitness condition. Ed and the other instructors are always helping and providing positive feedback. If you just want to get in shape, have a new hobby, learn self-defense, or become a world class competitor, this place can get you there.

Great place to get in shape. Awesome black belt and certified trainer, Edward Anthony. He really cares about you, your goals, and your progress. You always feel like you are apart of a family when you are at Atlas Jiu Jitsu. Best group around the area, and really talented. Ed helped me out a lot as my personal trainer. You will learn a lot here!

Excellent instruction, great people, no better way to practice Jiu Jitsu

I started training at Atlas Jiu Jitsu at the beginning of January 2020. I’ve trained at several other Jiu Jitsu schools over the years as well, but I’m still a white belt/novice/beginner. I was also about to turn 40 years old and had let myself fall out of shape. I decided to get back into it after being referred by a friend who is a long time Atlas student and also reading countless positive reviews online. When I arrived for my first class at the Albany location, I was greeted by the owner, Edward Anthony. Once you meet Ed, it becomes immediately apparent how much he cares about his students and his schools. Besides being a world class Jiu Jitsu instructor and a world champion at the black belt level, Ed is super friendly, positive, and has a great sense of humor. All that helps make the classes and drilling techniques a lot of fun. Ed also encourages the students to compete in Jiu Jitsu competitions and is very invested in their success and personal growth.All the students at Atlas are also very welcoming and helpful. From the higher belts on down to the newbies, from the adults right on down to the kids and their parents, everyone follows Ed’s lead and everyone takes care of each other. Atlas is a family, and I can’t imagine a greater environment to train in.Since the whole COVID-19 pandemic has shut everything down, Ed started a Facebook group for all members and their families and he’s still posting technique videos and using the Facebook group to keep everyone close and engaged. We’ve actually been able to stay in contact and get to know each other better this way.Anyway, I highly recommend Atlas for anyone that ever thought about trying Jiu Jitsu, or just anyone that wants to have a really fun way to stay in shape and be a part of an awesome team/family.Update 10/8/2020:As we all know, the world as we know it is different than it was 7 months ago. Between COVID, civil unrest, and many other issues, things can seem bleak.One thing that hasn’t changed one iota, is Atlas’s commitment to their students. Professor Ed has been steadfast in putting the physical and mental health and well being of his students and the overall community first, no matter what challenges get thrown his way. I will continue to train at Atlas because quite simply, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself.

Ive been going to atlas for about 3 months and my son has been going for about 6 months and I love it. It has completely changed his attitude. Great cardio workouts and the techniques you learn are great whether you just want some confidence or you plan on doing tournaments. The instructor is great with the kids, and as a trainer if you are looking to get in great shape. I went from 225lbs to 195lbs so far and feel great thanx to atlas.

Ive always been incredibly impressed with the professionalism, quality, and inclusivity of the Atlas environment. I would recommend this facility (and its satellite facilities) to any of my closest friends or family members, knowing they would have a great experience.

Awesome team and coach. This place as helped me so much especially when I was going through some tough times in my life. Im so glad to train here and I know this place will make me a better person, student, and soon to be MMA fighter. This is the best place Ive ever trained overall and everyone here is family and stick together. Ive in the best shape of my life and this place as gotten me into a peaceful state of mind after training.

Good place to learn and nice members. Schedule is on the website, and communication is easy. Classes are very structured, and appropriate for all levels of learning. Atlas has the essential tools to make you fit, regardless of your physical ability or lack thereof.

Very professional and great learning environment.

Awesome gym!!! Just dropped in because I was in the general area and looking to train while on vacation. Great great people and solid training. Going to absolutely be back next time Im in town.

I recently moved to Albany for work and attended a trial class at most of the local BJJ schools. Atlas was far and away the best choice for me. The mats are clean, the people are friendly, and the owner, Ed, is exceptionally talented and passionate about the art. If you are considering giving Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu a try I would highly recommend Atlas.

My home away from home. Cant explain with words how much my time here meant to me. I hope to return one day soon. Great people, great training, great facilities. Oss!

Awesome place to train! Staff are experienced and positive. Something for everyone, adults, kids, teenagers, men, women. At atlas, have fun, stay in shape, meet new people, learn a new skill, become a more confident and positive person, master an art and a science.

Great training and atmosphere. I was in town for a week and needed a place to continue training. Ive only been training for a few months and Ed and everyone there was very knowledgeable and helpful. I will definitely be returning when I am in the area.

This is the best Brazilian Jiujitsu gym I have ever been to hands down. I have been to several other bjj gyms and the instruction and drilling in this gym is the best you can get. Not only is the instruction the best but that gym truly feels like a family and everyone at that gym is awesome, each with a unique and great personality. Ed is one of the most down to earth coaches as well. Not only is he a great coach but a great friend as well.

The number one thing that I find special about Atlas Jiu Jitsu is how much coach Edward Anthony cares for his students. He never ceases to amaze you with how much he can help you out. My life is forever changed by the things he’s done for me and the talents and attributes he has seen in me. Apart from that, all memebers of atlas are truly a tight family unit. I mostly train at the Albany location, but have felt just as much at home the few times I have gone to the other locations. All of the lower belts also happen to be killers compared to the other schools around. With so many great people to have helping you, white and blue belts soar compared to any other place you would train at. If you want to train real jiu jitsu at a gym like no other, than Atlas is the place for you.

Good atmosphere to train. Plenty of focus on well rounded training.

This is a great place to train. I had no experience prior to starting at Atlas. I was searching for something to fill void created after a serious injury left me unable to train and compete for triathlon. I tried one class and was hooked. Shortly after I tried strength and conditioning classes. Between jiu jitsu and strength and conditioning I have regained confidence after my injury, lost weight, gained strength, and found a truly outstanding family. So happy I found Atlas!

Great experience with wonderful teachers. Id absolutely recomend this gym to anyone who is serious about learning a form of martial arts.

I have been training with the head instructor at atlas for almost 4 years now..Ive never met a more passionate person that is into not only the art of jiujitsu but in a person as ed is..I have trained at other places before but as soon as I walked through the doors at atlas I felt I was home. Take advantage of an opportunity to train at one of theyre 3 locations.

I highly recommend Atlas Jiu Jitsu. Great instruction and training in a nurturing environment. It is a wonderful place to get exercise and conditioning while learning a fun and valuable skill. The Albany location is large and clean. Edward Anthony is an extremely knowledgeable instructor who teaches jiu jitsu in a friendly, safe environment that is bully free. Aside from the jiu jitsu techniques one learns, it is also a place that I personally have made many, many friends that I will keep for the rest of my life.

I started taking the strength and conditioning classes a little over a year ago. I could barely do a pushup and certainly couldn’t run half a mile without serious breathing issues. (I have since run a half marathon.) I was really nervous, being so out of shape, about how everyone would treat me; my fears were quickly eased as teammates cheered me on while finishing the workout. It is great that I can now cheer on new people when they come in because I know how much it helped me get through.In the year after I joined, I started taking jiu jitsu and aside from building a skill set to defend myself, I built confidence and bonds with my teammates like no other. Everyone is patient and welcoming to new students, you are immediately brought into the family, I can’t imagine life without my Atlas family.Bottom line…Fantastic coach, awesome people, wonderful facility, and great location.

I walked into Atlas Jiujitsu at the recommendation of a friend who had just started seriously training BJJ. Even though I wasnt able to train for more than a few months, my experience was stellar owing to the committed and first-rate instructors at Atlas. They were very welcoming to me as a beginner and made sure to thoroughly break down new moves and sequences. The owner of Atlas, Ed, is a real stand-up fellow and bent over backwards to help accommodate my challenging schedule. I would highly recommend Atlas to anyone in the area interested in trying out Jiujitsu!

I had no idea what I was walking my first day at this gym. All I can say is that I dont regret it. There are a cast of characters who train here but everybody has the same goal, to improve their jiu jitsu. Atlas = family. Its on every gi for a reason and once you start its like theres no going back.. so go ahead. Be a ground shark. Take a cup and drink the Kool aid already !!

I could not have picked a better academy to train at! Ive trained at different academies before and Atlas has a VERY impressive brazilian jiu jitsu program going on for them. Edward Anthony, the owner and jiu jitsu instructer, has a methodical and attentive teaching style; which is great for people just starting out and even better for those of us who have already trained for a while. The competition medals hanging all over the walls are there for a reason, these guys are all REALLY good! Everyone is SUPER friendly and more than willing introduce themselves to newcomers! So if youre in the area stop by and check it out, you wont regret it!

Top of the line facility from the mats to the showers. Very clean, calm, and friendly environment. There is plenty of mat space to wrestle and spar. Since there are strength and conditioning classes held here there are plenty of machines and equipment to work out with. Free weights, kettlebells, battleropes, medicine balls, and multi function machines are what I use, but plenty of other stuff like sledgehammers and huge tires. At the edge of the mats there are 2 thai bags for strikers since there is also striking classes as well. The locker room is carpeted where the lockers are and tiled where the bathrooms and showers are. The head instructor Edward Wolverine Anthony is one of the best teachers Ive ever had. He is very clear and concise in his instruction with a sharp focus on detail. This is key because he will tell you what you are doing, and how to do it right or improve it. He has the ability to pin point problem areas in your game and will show you how to improve them. Not only are techniques taught here, but most importantly the martial code and philosophy is instilled in the students. All that aside the main reason I chose this academy over all others is because, Edward is not just about the money, he would probably teach for free if he could. Many other schools just want your money and dont care to much about you as a person or your safety. Edward has always been there for me when I was having any sort of trouble, and always there to give me the wisdom a master should. I am proud to call Edward Wolverine Anthony my Cifu/Sensei.

Best gym ive trained at. Highly recommend it

My son enjoys this place. Staff are friendly and professional

Best gym Ive been to by far

Amazing gym and service!!!!

100% recommended, with professional and respectful coaches.I have three girls training jiu-jitsu, and they are happy with their trainers.