The Chinese Martial Arts Academy in Latham
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Latham, Albany County, New York, US
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Site: http://www.martialartsalbany.com/
- Monday:9AM–9PM
- Tuesday:9AM–9PM
- Wednesday:9AM–9PM
- Thursday:9AM–9PM
- Friday:9AM–9PM
- Saturday:8AM–3PM
- Sunday:Closed
I had been searching for the perfect martial arts center, one that was offering different styles but also had experienced instructors that would preserve the integrity of each style while offering a welcoming family atmosphere. I found all that here at Chinese Martial Arts Academy. I would give this place 10 stars if I could. You won’t be disappointed I promise.
So Ive trained in Chinese martial arts for over fifteen years and I highly recommend this spot. For one, there are precious few places that teach forms/weapons, sanshou (a form of mma), and contemplative practices like tai chi/chi gung. This place has competent instruction in each and workshops and classes in other martial practices as well. Lucas is a great martial artist, not overly formal, and crosstrains in other disciplines, which widens his capacity as an instructor/coach. I dont live in Albany, but Im here a lot traveling and they let me drop in and train when Im in town. The culture of the place is recommended as well - nice folks, sparring with teammates for a bit every night during kickboxing classes (so youll drill and pressure test - super important, particularly for people who want to compete in sports fighting or train self defense), and modern wushu classes that challenge folks who want to do gainers as well as beginners who might just be interested in picking up some empty hand or weapons forms. Five star place!
As a student who has been going here for over 8 years, I have to say that everything about CMAA is amazing. Going from being a young kid who just earned my white belt to being a young adult who is preparing to test for my black belt has been one of the best experiences Ive ever had, and I dont plan on stopping anytime soon! The atmosphere is positive and there is something to do for everyone of all ages. Unlike some of the other martial arts places in the area that I have also tried, belts and ranks are earned through hard work and not just given away. Ive learned so much and highly recommend CMAA to anyone with an interest in martial arts, whether youre experienced, a beginner, a child, or an adult.
Very welcoming environment that treats people with all levels of martial arts the same. You get challenged but the instructors will make sure youre not too uncomfortable if you dont want to be. They know theyre stuff but most importantly their good people. Shifu Lucas and Steve both have tremendous knowledge and theyll goof around with you and hang out after class when the times appropriate. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to learn martial arts or just looking for another form of exercise.
As both a parent of a student and a student myself, I absolutely love the programs at CMAA. Participating in the kids class with my son, I have witnessed how Shifu Lucas interacts with the kids. He strikes a great balance between discipline and holding them accountable and making it fun. For older kids and adults, you cant beat the background and knowledge that Shifu has to share - and he does this so willingly.There is a great group of kids and adults at CMAA at all levels, which creates a nice family atmosphere. No intimidation, only support. Great place to learn kung fu and grow as a person with so many awesome people. We are so thankful to have found CMAA and Shifu Lucas.
The most positive experience for my little one. He has been so focused on improving his skills. He loves forms, warm-ups, games, weapons, everything. Any single day when there is no Martial Arts, he misses it so much. Shifu is very good at children - feel better than many teachers. We feel lucky of having CMAA throughout the pandemic. Otherwise we dont know how we could possible go through. Keep up the good standard!
Chinese Martial Arts Academy is an outstanding school. The children are challenged to meet their full potential and beyond. this is a great system for fitness, discipline and most of all, fun. Sifu Geller is one of the best in working with many kids at different levels all at the same time. Organized, professional, kind and spirited. I would strongly recommend this school to anyone.
The Chinese Martial Arts Academy is an incredible experience for our son. Not only does our child get the best training in Martial Arts, but also he learns very important moral values and personal characteristics. All of these due to the nicest trainer they have-Lucas Geller! Thank you so very much for everything you do for our child and for all of us!
The Chinese Martial Arts Academy is a great place for kids to exercise, learn martial arts, and most of all, to have fun. Lucas Geller is an amazing teacher/shifu, he will help kids individually if they need they extra help and he will be serious when he needs to and funny when he needs to. If you ever have extra time on your hands, you should come to the Chinese Martial Arts Academy, and try it out for yourself.
My two kids and wife have been studying Wushu with Master Geller since the school opened, and we all cannot recommend the school enough.This Chinese style of martial arts is fluid yet complex, challenging both the body and mind.Master Lucas is a superb athlete as well as a great teacher, which is a rare combination.Our kids and my wife have fun while theyre learning new skills.
Ive practiced martial arts for most of my life and I can absolutely say that this is one of the best schools I have ever attended. Shifu Lucas Geller is a tremendous athlete, a superb martial artist and an excellent teacher. He brings out the best in any student, regardless of age or skill level. The wide array of classes are both challenging and fun. So if you want to get in excellent shape while learning about the Chinese martial arts, CMAA is the place for you!
What I like about this martial art studio is that you pay one fee and can come to class everyday, except for Sunday when closed. The difference is that you meet those who are really interested in martial art and would like to continuously and steadily sharpen their skills: they come to class everyday for more than one class and remain good focus and good attitude for studying. I send my son and daughter there four months so far and they both like it. They usually go there four times a week, one hour each time. They find the children there friendly and hard- working. They find the teacher charming and capable. They also like the music going on with the action, which gives the muscular motion a hint of art. The promotion system is meaningful and fun: from one color of sash to another, you need to pass a group test which lasts about two hours, and then receive your master teachers particular lesson to you when granted with the sash of your level in public. Overall, we love the studio and the teacher!
CMAA is a school like no other. A few years ago, my kids and I started training here. It has truly been a life changing experience. Shifu Lucas Geller is not just a kung fu instructor. He is an athlete, a mentor, a teacher, a friend. He has created a family out of a school. We are brothers and sisters in training. That doesnt just happen. It is a product of the leader. And the result? An amazing school, with students who are truly impressive martial artists. I do not include myself as an impressive martial artist, but I revel in the sense peace and well being I gain by training here. Thank you Lucas. You are a gift to all you meet and teach.
CMMA is a terrific place! Shifu Lucas Geller is warm, friendly, knowledgeable martial arts expert who is especially great with kids. If your image of a martial arts school is tough guys beating each other up, think again. Although there is a self-defense component, the emphasis here is on learning the choreographed routines (forms) of TaiChi and Kung Fu and on being fit, happy, and leading a good life. The school traces its roots to the old Capitol District Tai Chi and Kung Fu Association, founded in the 1980s by Shifu Jiang Jianye, an internationally recognized grandmaster from China. The school became CMMA when Shifu Jiang semi-retired and the school was taken over by his young student Lucas Geller, who had gone on to study for years in China and has many credits as a Kung Fu practitioner and teacher. Jiang still teaches TaiChi to a loyal group of long-term students as well as newcomers, while Geller teaches KungFu, TaiChi and Crossfit to a variety of students of all ages (and I mean ALL ages). Personally, I have been a student of Jiang for over 20 years, and continue my studies with both Jiang and Geller. Honestly, it has been life-changing. I go to TaiChi classes on Wednesday nights but I like to come early to watch the kids KungFu classes, its fun to watch how much they enjoy the class, love their teacher, and make progress in their training. I think the balance of serious training and playful fun is just right for these kids. This place is the real deal, taught by real experts who are also wonderful people. Nice physical facility, too. Check it out, the school is very welcoming to visitors and newbies. .
The CMAA is one of the best martial arts places Ive seen in the Capital District. The Shifu is a very good teacher. Ive only been here for about six months but Ive learned a lot. The kids class is very kid friendly and the older kids and adult class really help improve your kung fu.
Master Lucas Gellar is not only dedicated to teach students KungFu, but also create a friendly fun atmosphere that make the kids always enjoy their KungFu classes. In the classes, you could see senior students always kindly help younger students with their forms, and my daughter feels they are like a family!
I love kungfu!!!!! But I never got a chance to try it until a few weeks ago. Now I cant wait to learn more. The coach is very nice, helpful and funny. He made the class very enjoyable. He is always patient to teach me how to do the right/safe form. Its a great group of supportive people. Kids and adults, come try it out for yourself! You will be very excited and proud of yourself when you can do all the cool jump kicks you have seen in the movies.
Shifu Geller is one of the most knowledgeable instructors of Tai Chi, Kung Fu, and Sanshou I have ever encountered. Hes really good at teaching and mastering the basic principals of martial arts, and has a passion for making sure his students are healthy and happy. In regards to his prices, they are actually a steal for the level of in depth instruction and quality time he spends with the students. And above all, hes extremely friendly, even with some of the less desirable customers.Overall: Highly Recommend.
I have been studying Tai Chi and Qi Gong since 1991 and I highly recommend this academy for the young and older folks. Shifu Geller and Shifu Jiang are fantastic teachers with many years of experience. What I love about CMAA is the community spirit of the students. Their is no pressure placed on learning. We are all at different levels and you are encouraged to learn at your own pace and ability. You receive lots of guidance and support from both teachers and other students. I know that I have received so many benefits physically, mentally and emotionally studying this wonderful art of Tai Chi. Im so appreciative to Shifu Geller for opening this academy.
This place is what I would call my second home that I am proud of. (School would be my second home, but Im not proud of that.) I come here six times a week, and every time I have so much fun! The teacher is very happy and funny, and he has changed everyone there so everyone there likes to laugh and joke when we can! I have made very good friends there, and they have become my best friends. My favorite memories all came from this place. Thanks to my teacher, I have already performed four times on stage, and I have done Martial Arts for just over a year! Every day when Im bored in school, I look forward to coming into his academy and knowing that Ill be able to spend the next two hours doing what I love most: not going to school, laughing with my friends, getting exercise, and doing flips. Because of his help, Ive already learned how to do a backhand spring, an aerial, a butterfly twist, a butterfly kick, a horse stance landing tornado kick, nine forms of martial arts, and SO MUCH MORE!!! I have learned all my flips without any training of my own outside of his academy. My teacher has traveled to China for many years to learn Marital Arts and is very skilled with his Martial Arts skills! He has great form and posture, and has already helped so many people get better at martial arts! If you want to find a place where you can have fun, work hard, exercise, and learn to defend yourself, COME TO THE CHINESE MARTIAL ARTS ACADEMY!!! His motto is: The family that sticks together, kicks together! (Or maybe its the other way around.)
CMAAs Shifu Lucas Geller is the truest embodiment of a coach and mentor. Having been in the martial arts community all my life, I can attest to his commitment to learning, teaching and mentoring. A man with more infectious enthusiasm and kindness would be difficult to find. The community of students at CMAA is second to none. No egos here, just learning and sharing.
I was delighted to discover CMAA when I moved to Albany. The studio is well equipped with mirrors, mats, weights and Kung Fu weapons. For the first time, I no longer need to take classes in the park or community hall. It is nice to have a permanent training venue. I particularly like the calligraphy written by Grand Master Jiang. It elegantly captures the essence and the spirit of MA and brings a source of inspiration. The students at CMAA are warm and friendly. I was immediately drawn by their commitment and passion for the art.The Tai Chi classes are primarily taught by Master Geller, a student of Jiang and a highly accomplished martial artist. He is incredibly patient with every student and meticulous with details. It is rare to find a good teacher who not only can demonstrate each posture with precision and ease, but also can explain the application behind the movement. The most impressive part is that Master Geller speaks fluent Mandarin and has deep understanding of the rich cultural heritage.Up until this point, I have never taken body conditioning seriously. Master Geller convinced me about the importance of combining external with internal training. So, besides Tai Chi I also took up his crossfit class. The small class size certainly helped as I was given personalized program based on my own body’s needs. Every crossfit class is different. My training buddies are fun to work with and we keep each other motivated. Master Geller is particular careful with proper alignment and correct techniques. After a few weeks of crossfit, I have already noticed improvement in my Tai Chi stance.I would recommend CMAA to anyone who is interested in Chinese Martial Art or simply want to try something different from conventional fitness exercises. Regardless of your goal, the school has a program for you. And more importantly, the teacher has his students’ interests at heart and will bring out the best in everyone.
As my girlfriend Joyce puts it (but refuses to sign up for google+):shifu Lucas Geller is one of the most genuine people I have ever met.his passion for Chinese martial arts is evident through his vast knowledge of not only tai chi, kung fu (many different styles) and sancho,but also includes Chinese language and culture. and lets not forget quotes from any kung fu movie ever made :o)he shares as much of his knowledge as any student is willing to learn. to see shifu work on a routine is impressive, and demos look just clean and effortless.so if you are interested in learning the art CMAA is the place to be, if you just want a great full body work out with awesome people CMAA is the place to be.classes are traditional but with an easy atmosphere; we all train together (from 8 to 70+, there are kids classes too) and help each other out, while everyone gets to learn at their own pace.if you have never studied a martial art before, do not feel intimidated, just come and try out a class, or watch one if you prefer.like I said, an amazing place with with amazing people. hope to see you at CMAA.
I used to do martial arts when I was a kid. One of the things that turned me off and eventually made me quit was the strict, military-like atmosphere. I decided I wanted to give it another try as an adult with a different form of martial arts, so I began to take classes here.The atmosphere is perfect. Shifu Lucas Gellar strikes a fantastic balance between fun and light-hearted while also being serious enough to actually get things done. Despite the astronomical level of experience and skill from the instructor and many of the students, I never once felt intimidated.I am very early on in my wushu education, but I am already doing things I never imagined myself doing. I am a big, burly, and clumsy dude. If Shifu can teach me to do something somewhat resembling a cartwheel, I promise you can too. If you are on the fence, I implore you to take the two week trial that is offered and give it a try. You will not regret it.
What a fantastic place for all ages to learn and practice martial arts! As an adult who was brand new to martial arts training I was pretty nervous but found out quickly that there was absolutely nothing to be nervous about. Everyone is so welcoming and so very generous with their knowledge. You definitely should come check it out!
I have studied at the school for over eight years now, starting with Jiang Dashi, then with Lucas Shifu, and now also with Instructor Steve. During that time I have been exposed with many different martial arts, both internal and external. One thing that I have found in common with each teacher is their earnest desire to use martial arts to not only improve physical health but to improve mental health as well, by encouraging students to actively think about what they are doing and why. On top of that, they also welcome new and alternative perspectives, understanding that the martial arts are always evolving over time and that they represent different things to different people. I feel that this has led to an open and welcoming atmosphere, for both novices and experienced practitioners alike.
I started Kungfu over 2 years ago when I was 12. I have made a lot of friends. CMAA has made me faster and stronger in gym class. Shifu Lucas Geller helps you improve your forms in Kungfu. He is funny and has a great personality but is also focused on his students Kungfu.I also take JKD - Jeet Kune Do. Mr. Steve Juman is very patient . If a student needs help, he will take them aside and reteach it to them. JKD is great for self defense.
I have learned so much at the Chinese Martial Arts Academy and my Tai Chi has improved immeasurably. A student is able to learn form and intent from Shifu Geller and benefit from the many years of experience from Shifu Jiang Jianye. The School has a wonderful atmosphere, where one is able to learn, improve your skills, and develop wonderful friendships. I have been practicing Tai Chi for over 20 years and would say this School provides everything that is needed to practice and enjoy the benefits of Tai Chi. I would recommend it highly. The best School in the Capital District!
Both of my kids have been going to CMAA for almost 6 years. I have seen it grow from just a few students to now a big school of students. Every one can find things benefits him or her. Kids are all very polite and warm hearted. They not only learn from Shifu Lucas but also from each other and become good friends. A lots of demo opportunities also help kids to gain the rich stage experiences. As a parent, it is also fun to watch my kids and other kids grow in CMAA over the years. I definitely recommend any kid, parents, and adults to give it try. As far as I know, any kids tried there, they all kept doing Kungfu in CMAA.
Wait theres no 5 (beyond excellent)??? With that being said I am proud and honored to be a part of the Chinese Martial Arts Academy. Approx. a year ago or so is when I first started training and met Shifu Lucas Geller. Not only do I consider Shifu Lucas to be one of the most driven and knowledgeable instructors I have trained with, his passion for the sport, the life, body spirit and mind surpasses all. I implore you to take a trip and visit the new and exciting Chinese Martial Arts Academy. THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE, from tai chi, kung fu, sanshou, kids kung fu you name it. I primarily have been training kung fu kickboxing (sanshou) and will tell you first hand this is the most beneficial self defense I have had the opportunity to partake in. Shifu Lucas patience, technique, and experience with all aspects of his teaching is stellar. I have learned and grown so much in the past year and still have much more to accomplish but I cannot thank Shifu Lucas enough for all that he has done. If you have taken the time to read this far come visit and train with the best. I will be there this saturday for sanshou get off your computer and become a part of the CMAA family you will not be disappointed, we all look forward to seeing you there.
Martial Arts has always been Shifu Lucas passion since he was still a student. I personally went to the same school with him and saw he worked and trained very hard to get the best of it. I wish I lived there to send my daughter to his school. Too bad we are in Colorado:(
I enthusiastically recommend the Chinese Martial Arts Academy to anyone interested in pursuing authentic Wushu. I’ve been studying kung fu at MasterLucas Geller’s Kung fu school for several years now, and have obtained many benefits from dedicating myself to Wushu practice. Wushu isn’t just excellent exercise for those who want to keep in shape. Wushu is an art form; practice of martial arts helps develop discipline, improves focus, and fosters respect for the Shaolin Tradition.Since I began training with Shrfu Geller, I have attained the level of light tan sash. Recently, one of our younger students became the first to earn a black sash. At CMAA, we don’t “get” a particular sash – we earn it through hard work and dedication. Shrfu Geller is a world-class Wushu artist and instructor; he studied in China and was a medalist on the USA Wushu team. He is fluent in Chinese, which lends authenticity to his instruction. He is also very physically gifted and his hard work and accomplishments are an inspiration to his students.I train with a number of young students. This is beneficial in a lot of ways. First, it is a joy to watch the students grow and mature as people and as martial artists. Second, it is interesting to watch young kids as they learn to do the physical feats involved in learning the Wushu forms. And third, keeping up with them challenges me to work harder.Although at this time Shrfu Geller is not teaching any form of combat, there s a Jeet Kune Do instructor (Steve Juman) who teaches on Saturday afternoons. Also, Shrfu Geller is a Crossfit instructor, and there are several Crossfit training classes at the school for people who want to get in shape and sweat a lot.
The Chinese Martial Arts Academy changed my life. The instruction has motivated me to perform Kung Fu and Tai Chi movements I never imagined myself capable of doing. Since I started 3 years ago Ive dropped 50 pounds, and improved my stretch from barely reaching my shoe laces to currently being 5 inches from the ground attempting splits! None of these improvements would have been easy without the people in the school. The environment is always upbeat and exciting, welcoming people from all walks of life who are looking to improve their health. Whether youre looking to be an world renowned martial artist, or you simply want to live a healthier life, Lucas Geller of Chinese Martial Arts Academy is always excited to help people reach their goals. Stop on by to see for yourself because this school may change your life!!!
Sifu Geller is passionate about the school and its students. His passion serves to drive him and his students to do their best every class. I cannot say enough about the friendly, and warm atmosphere of the school. Students from 4 years to those over 70 learn and strive to better themselves with mutual cooperation and compassion. If you are interested in finding a martial arts school you MUST check this one out. Sifu Geller is one of the premiere instructors in the greater Albany area. There is something for everyone: MMA style fighting to graceful TaiChi.
The Chinese Martial Arts Academy isnt only a place where you can exercise, but also a place where you can learn. I literally feel like Im immersed in an ocean of knowledge when i go to kung fu because i dont just learn from Shifu Geller (who is really nice and tells the best jokes ever) but the other students there are also really smart and filled with nuggets of knowledge (or pearls of wisdom to go with the ocean of knowledge). Thanks to CMAA, i am stronger and more flexible than i ever thought id be, and i know a lot more random fun facts and corny jokes! So my physical AND mental capabilities grew!
Ive studied tai chi and qigong with Shifu Jianye for many years and now with Shifu Geller as well. This is the best Chinese martial arts training around. Im so fortunate to live where I can get this level of training. The quality of instruction is superb. Great teachers, great classes, great people, great school.
I have been a student of the CMAA and its predecessor for 5 years, and my wife has been a participant for more than 22 years. The teachers are great and the new facility is outstanding, clean, modern, easy to find with plenty of free parking. As a 68 year old I am not looking for the Kung Fu and Sanchou training, but the Tai Chi and Qi Gong classes are excellent. I have always felt welcome and respected.
I came to CMAA because they offer crossfit sessions daily. Lucas is a great instructor and provides excellent feedback (Im recovering from surgery, so he teaches me modifications of exercises to keep up). Workout sessions feel like a team effort, so you lose your gym shyness quickly. Unlike most crossfit gyms, CMAA really pushes on proper technique-which is natural given its a martial arts gym! Its also way cheaper per month than larger crossfit gyms.
Im a Wushu/Kung Fu classmate of Lucas Gellers for some 5 years. Ive never seen anyone so dedicated to training, to learning, and to improving as Lucas in my time training in Wushu (12+ years). His knowledge of the Mandarin Chinese language is bar none. I would definitely recommend him as a teacher to anyone. He is also enthusiastic, trustworthy, and sincere. Give him a try!
CMAA offers an enriching learning environment and fosters a cohesive community. Shifu Geller is very passionate about what he does and is eager to spread his knowledge to his students. I also take JKD, or Jeet Kune Do, which is instructed by Steve Juman. He prepares engaging and interactive classes each week. The amiable atmosphere provides for a positive and family-friendly experience.
My husband and I have been practicing tai chi for about six years now, with both shifu Jiang and shifu Geller, and this has been one of the best decisions weve ever made. While tai chi requires commitment and a willingness to look to the long term rather than immediate benefits, the payoff is enormous--improved strength, flexibility, mental focus, and overall well-being. No matter how stressed we are when we come to class, we leave feeling calmed and energized. In addition to the health benefits -- which are many, for both young and old -- we really feel like we are part of a larger tradition of martial arts training and history. Learning the different styles of tai chi is an excellent work out for both the mind and the body. This school is an incredible resource!
Even though my boys are not usually interested in active things, they love taking martial arts here, and have learned so much in the last year. I am blown away by how their teacher is able to keep so many active kids under control and learning, yet still allow them to have fun and enjoy each others company.
My two kids, a 13 year old girl and a 11 year old boy, have been practicing with he group fror more than two years and absolutely love it. We all feel lucky that we have Shifu Lucas leading this wonderful group in accomplishing so many great stuff. Shifu Lucas is not only a great athlete, but aslo a great teacher and role model for the young kids.
I recently moved from CA a few months ago to go to school out here and have been looking for a place to do martial arts. After checking a few places out, found my fit at CMAA Sanshou class. I did a little muay thai and krav in CA, but the class here is intense, fun, and has combines both the standup game and grappling, which is pretty awesome. Not to mention the rates fit my graduate student budget.I would recommend it to my friends!
From the perspective of a 26 year old biology teacher,When my husband and I joined CMAA last summer, we didnt really know what to expect. I was looking for an intense training program in martial arts, and he was looking for a friendly environment where he could learn at his own pace.We both found exactly what we were looking for. Master Lucas is not only incredibly skillful as a martial artist, but he is funny, kind, patient, and a great teacher.Everything one could ask for it available at this school, from beautifully artistic martial sequences to intense, sweaty, exhausting workouts. This school will train your body to be stronger, your mind to be quicker, and your spirit to be happier.Not only did I immediately notice improvements to my physical appearance, mostly in the form of harder abs, but I had more energy throughout to day. I looked forward every week to going to class, to hanging out with my Kung Fu Family.My husband and I were a little bit worried about hanging out with a bunch of sweaty guys (to be fair, there are plenty of sweaty girls as well) afraid that perhaps they would be less than accepting of a gay couple.Nobody cared at all. I felt like I had been friends with everyone I met for a long, long time. Like family.The ultimate questions:Can you fly through the air like a bird? No? Do you want to? Join CMAA!Do you want a nicer body, more energy, and to be happier? Yea? Join CMAA!Do you want to train under some of the most incredible masters, from Tai Chi to Wushu to Sanshou? Yea? Join CMAA!
Whether youre inexperienced and looking to just get in shape while having fun or an elite-level martial artist with aspirations of performing on a world stage, this facility will accommodate your goals. There are few places in the world to train under with more knowledgeable and effective instructors than at CMAA.With a lifetime of experience, Master Geller has a record of success as a competitor, performer, and coach. Master Geller has the rare and powerful gift of being able to demonstrate movement and communicating in a concise, easily understood manner so students can gain confidence and competence through success.Along with powerlifting, olympic lifting, and nutrition, Master Gellers martial expertise includes Internal Chinese Martial Arts, External Chinese Martial Arts, and Self-Defense (striking, take-downs, joint-locks, grappling, etc.).If youve been meaning to start or continue your martial arts training, this treasure in the community should be the first place you stop by!
My children all are members of this Wu Shu academy for the past 3years. They have learned the meaning of team work, how to lead, and perform in for a large crowd. Through the system and coaching from the teacher they have grown with natural strength, balance and flexibility which surpasses their peers at school.As a JKD practioner I was very picky on the school I chose for my children, it had to have a sound system, great teacher and educate in movement. This art does not conflict with what they learn from me in Jeet Kune Do.
Ive only been going here for a few weeks and its wonderful! Everyone there is so kind and helpful! When i forget my form, Shifu helps me remember it. He is such a good andtalented teacher and im so happy i got into Kungfu! This is such a great school and i wish i could give it a star rating of 100!😄
Quality Kung Fu is hard to come by in this area. This man is the best Ive seen for this area. Also, besides his other styles of Kung Fu, he knows Sanda. The Chinese military teaches a form of this to their soldiers and its a very self defense oriented Kung Fu. Generally, you dont find a lot of Sanda in the U.S.; Ive only had great experiences learning from this man as a teacher.
If you are interested in learning from perhaps one of the most knowledgeable, passionate, highly respected Martial Artists in the country, do yourself a favor and stop in at The Chinese martial Arts Academy in Latham, NY.Shifu Lucas Geller runs a highly professional facility, with an extremely convenient schedule for all ages.
Total reviews rating 5
91 Reviews for The Chinese Martial Arts Academy 2023:
Review №1
2022-05-20Having a son with an ADHD and autism diagnosis makes it hard to find extra curricular activities where he feels challenged, understood, and amongst his peers. CMAA checks all of those boxes for my son. Shifu Lucas shows the mixture of kindness, patience, and discipline that allows my son to flourish. He is excited to come to his Kung Fu lessons and is eager to challenge himself to meet the expectations set forth in the class. I could go on for days with praises, but the bottom line is that this is the Kung Fu class for any person looking for Kung Fu in the Albany area
Review №2
2022-06-01It only took one trial class to know I found a great fit! The Kyokushin Karate is a fantastic class that has a great mix of all ages and abilities. Shifu Lucas carries an amazing teaching gift to break down the moves and help students of varying abilities reach their goals. This growing program is the perfect addition to the CMAA classes.
Review №3
2022-03-14So, I have never done anything relating to martial arts before so I bought the one week trial. The first class I showed up for (Sandra Kickboxing) absolutely had me there. I knew from when I stepped out the door I wanted to continue. I showed up to a couple of different classes throughout the week but settled on Karate and Kickboxing. Shifu (Lucas) was very open to all the questions I had and even answered all my phone calls or texts about things I wanted to know. Even though I’m a bit older then some people in one of my classes I still fit right in. I also felt very welcomed into the Chinese Martial Arts Academy even though I was only on a trial, now I still may not know everyone’s names in my classes yet. I still absolutely look forward to every class I can go to too.PS if you do plan to go here, definitely pick up some merchandise from there online shop, they are super nice and high quality.
Review №4
2022-05-08My kids have been going to CMAA for 4 years. Shifu is professional and personable, the training is individually based according to each students ability, challenging with a fun atmosphere. We went to Master Yangs prior, the classes were only 45min, high cost and they pressure parents into committing long term, confusing annual plans with a large payment upfront. At CMAA kids build real friendships, gain solid martial skills, while having a blast.
Review №5
2022-05-01My son has trialed at other Martial Arts centers in the past but this place has to be by far the greatest. Once he tried this place . He never left !!! The patience , dedication , and encouragement he receives from the team are absolutely incredible . I recommend this spot to all parents .
Review №6
2022-05-02I am deeply indebted and grateful to the Chinese Martial Arts Academy. The Tai Chi and Qigong classes that emphasize gentle stretching has been a blessing for me. Being a senior, lack of mobility can be a detrimental part of life. In my case, I have improved control and freedom of movement; which really enhances my quality of life. On another note, I enjoy the slow meditative aspects of Wudang Tai Chi, which is also presented at this academy. Many thanks 🙏. Sincerely:!Harlan
Review №7
2022-06-21Lucas is the real deal and so was his (discontinued) kickboxing class! They have other great classes and instructors too, if boxing isnt your thing.
Review №8
2021-10-20My 2 children are participating in Karate program and they love it! They have learned a great deal from the instructors. Its a comfortable environment with a passionate group of people teaching them.. Highly recommend this studio
Review №9
2021-07-21Our son started taking classes in Kyokushin Karate here. We started our journey with trail classes and they were spot on. Shifu Lucas gave us all the information we needed and taught every class with equal passion and dedication. He is one of the best instructors in this field. Our son had no prior experience with karate. Its been over a month and he now developed keen interest to learn and know more!
Review №10
2020-10-08I take combative and kickboxing classes here and I love it! Lucas and Steve are great. They are both very passionate about what they do and it shows. I am a complete beginner but they made me feel at home right away. Im glad I decided to start taking classes at the Chinese Martial Arts Academy! The community here is friendly and encouraging. Anyone who is looking to start or learn more about martial arts should definitely check this place out.