Business Details
26 Years
experience
Premier Martial Arts Training for All Ages in Pittsburgh
Founded in 2000, Ryer Martial Arts Academy has grown from a university student club into one of Pittsburgh's leading martial arts schools. Rooted in Shadyside since 2004, we specialize in practical, modern training that builds confidence, focus, and self-defense skills for students of all ages. Our programs are designed to empower individuals through Master Zach Whitson's Counterpoint Tactical System, a principle-based martial art emphasizing real-world applications. With over 25 years of teaching experience, founder Josh Ryer leads a team of certified instructors who prioritize personal growth alongside technical proficiency. We offer age-specific classes for children starting at age four, teens, and adults, ensuring each student receives tailored guidance.Our curriculum integrates striking, grappling, ground defense, and weapons training, fostering holistic development that extends beyond physical skills. The academy's commitment to excellence is reflected in its state-of-the-art facility, maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness and safety. We pride ourselves on creating a welcoming environment where students build lifelong friendships while mastering self-defense techniques. Flexible membership options accommodate diverse schedules, with no contracts or hidden fees. Celebrating 20 years of community impact, we remain dedicated to strengthening lives through professional martial arts education.
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Teen Martial Arts
Adult Martial Arts
Kickboxing
Self-Defense Training
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer age-specific programs for children starting at age four through adults.
- Our instructors hold advanced ranks in multiple martial arts disciplines.
- We teach practical self-defense techniques applicable to real-world scenarios.
- Flexible membership plans accommodate various training frequencies and budgets.
- Our academy maintains the highest standards of facility cleanliness and safety.
What people say
Amazing trainer
Improved confidence
Supportive community
Excellent instructors
Well-maintained facility
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Our kids' martial arts program builds confidence, focus, and self-defense skills for children aged 4-11. Through age-appropriate instruction, students develop physical coordination, emotional strength, and verbal communication strategies to handle bullying situations. The curriculum combines fun activities with practical techniques, creating a foundation for lifelong martial arts practice while promoting character development and social skills.
Teen Martial Arts
Designed for ages 12-15, our teen martial arts program focuses on discipline, respect, and practical self-defense. Instructors guide students through progressive training that builds physical fitness while emphasizing personal responsibility and confidence. The program helps teens navigate adolescence through structured martial arts practice that develops both physical abilities and mental resilience in a supportive environment.
Adult Martial Arts
Adult martial arts classes teach Master Zach Whitson's Counterpoint Tactical System for real-world self-defense. Training includes striking, grappling, ground fighting, and weapons defense across progressive skill levels. Students develop physical fitness while learning practical techniques applicable to various scenarios, with instruction focused on building confidence and situational awareness that extends beyond the training mat into daily life.
Kickboxing
High-energy kickboxing classes combine martial arts techniques with cardiovascular conditioning for all fitness levels. Participants learn striking fundamentals while burning calories and building strength through dynamic workouts. The program emphasizes community support and personal improvement, offering a fun, challenging environment where students develop physical fitness alongside practical self-defense skills without prior experience requirements.
Bullying Prevention
Our specialized bullying prevention program teaches children verbal and physical self-defense strategies. Through martial arts training, kids learn to recognize, avoid, and de-escalate potential threats while developing confidence and assertiveness. The curriculum includes scenario-based practice for real-world applications, helping students build the mental and physical tools needed to handle challenging social situations safely and effectively.
People
Josh Ryer
Founder & Head Instructor
With over 25 years of teaching experience, Josh Ryer holds 6th Degree Black Belt in Counterpoint Tactical System and multiple martial arts ranks. He has trained thousands of students since establishing the academy in 2004, focusing on technical mastery and personal development.
Questions
What martial arts programs do you offer?
We offer kids' martial arts (ages 4+), teen programs, adult self-defense, and kickboxing classes. All programs focus on practical self-defense techniques and personal development.
What are your class schedules?
Kids' classes run weekdays at 4:30-6:30 PM, teen classes Monday/Wednesday 5:30 PM and Saturday 11 AM, adult classes Monday/Wednesday 7:30 PM and Saturday noon, and kickboxing Tuesdays/Thursdays 6:45 PM.
Do you require contracts for membership?
No contracts are required. We offer flexible month-to-month memberships with no hidden fees, allowing you to choose 1, 2, or unlimited weekly classes.
What makes your academy different from others?
Our instructors hold advanced ranks in multiple disciplines, combining technical expertise with personalized instruction. We emphasize both physical skills and character development in a clean, supportive environment.
Can beginners join your classes?
Absolutely! No prior experience is needed. Our programs welcome all skill levels, with instructors providing individualized guidance to help each student progress at their own pace.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we offer free trial classes for all programs. Simply fill out our online form to schedule your first session and experience our training environment firsthand.