New York San Da

I have tried EVERYTHING, personal trainers, fad diets, running, yoga, pilates, aeroboxing, you name it. There is nothing like this workout. Total body and total kick butt. You will feel it and you will see the results. I joined when they were in the old location and no one knew about them and sort of liked those days, the secret is out now and we seem to be getting crowded but the more the merry I guess

I tried yoga, then "white collar" boxing, a friend finally convinced me to sign up for three classes here. I puked the first class (they say that happens not to worry) but I figured I would get in shape if I could get the workout down. So far, so good. I have been here since March, missed a few classes, but when I do come, wow, defiinitely feel it. Be warned that the "boot camp" is what it sounds like, not for the faint of heart

I have been a student for 5 years off and on, and I am not alone. There are people who have been here 7, 9 and more than 10 years and to me that shows how strong the tradition is in this place. In addition to a strong workout it is a community, I have met a lot of very nice people who I call friends. I don't mind the crowded class, but at times it does get hot, LOL they call it bicram (sp?) kickboxing sometimes, but I am there to workout and don't mind the sweat really

I don't know anything about the other schools mentioned or about "fighters" but I can tell you that I joined NY Sanda in 2007 and about 4 months in had to relocate back to California. Yes, they asked me for a 30 day cancellation but to me that didn't seem unreasonable. And when I came back to NY in 2009 they actually credited me the month I paid. If people tell you it can get crowded, yeah, it can. And is it hot? Well, 40 people in a room working out and it can get hot. If that bothers you, I guess don't join. But I have fun and get a good workout (but I am not a fighter)

DON'T TRUST THEM! Read the fine print of the contract before you sign, they will lie straight to your face! I informed them I only wanted to take the first month and was told I could cancel my monthly membership if I gave a couple days notice prior to the end of the month. I did and they said I successfully cancelled, only to see on my credit card statement billings for $135, a month after I stopped going!!! Apparently they only froze payments for a month, not actually cancelled. Now they won't refund me because they said I didn't give enough notice!! THEY WILL RIP YOU OFF!!

Face it, there is always someone who didn't like the workout or frankly couldn't get through it but the gym is a wonderful place as evidenced by the many members who enjoy their workouts. The staff is friendly and cares that you do the techniques correctly. The workout produces results. If anonymous people who aren't even members want to come on here and talk trash, hey, it's the internet. But if you are really interested, come down and take a class.

Dont even go there... There is absolutly no air ventilation, the place smells and the management is horrible when it comes to customer service. They will never refund a penny. Oh ye and bathrooms are disgusting.

I am a very small lady and was very weak. With the class I gained some muscle and some confidence. Everyone is very friendly and while you sweat very much it is worth the experience.

Wow, the silliness of the internet. I have been a member here for YEARS. I've been a member since their first location on 37th and 9th. They are a GREAT GYM. I guess some people can't take the workout or are just lazy? But if you want a REAL WORKOUT, go to NY SAN DA

My wife joined to get in shape for our wedding and then dragged me to class. It's nice to be in a co-ed class where everyone wants to workout, not a meat market (besides I'm married now LOL). A little crowded and the boot camp is like an oven (HOT) but it's better than the gym

Update to my review... The owner, David, needs to get his story straight. I needed to cancel because I moved! It's not that I didn't want to pay or keep my contract for some silly unreasonable reason. There were 2 reasons why someone could cancel, doctors orders or bc you moved. I was one of these reasons. But with poor customer service, it took over 2 months for someone at San Da to get back to me to tell me that I was missing information on my cancel form regarding this bc I was calling them numerous times since i saw that i was still getting charged and didnt know why. They put my form to the side, ignored it and kept on charging me. It's funny that now that I've written a bad review and the owner isn't happy, he has plenty of time NOW to contact me telling me how immature I am for posting reviews and he himself had the immaturity to print my full name on here. If he had taken the time from the start to get to the bottom of this, all of this could have been avoided. He didn't care ... Read more

MattNYC doesn't seem to mention the fact that BEFORE he ever bought our intro package he was staring right at our schedule online. IE if he didn't like the schedule he didn't have to join, In fact, HE SHOULDN'T HAVE JOINED! MattNYC also doesn't mention we set up FIVE APPOINTMENTS for him and he not only didn't show for any of them, he never bothered to call to cancel As for Jennifer Hischberg, she didn't want to pay to have an open ended account but after a few months didn't want to pay her contact, DESPITE that, we cancelled her but we didn't issue her a refund. Shows that helping someone out doesn't pay I guess. Peopel need to be adults

I bought a set of three classes online. I then decided to go and join another place because the hours did not meet my schedule. They refused to return my money even though no where on the website does it say non-refundable. Bad customer service

I just finished my 3 month membership here and signed up for another year. I was skeptical, out of shape and had never done martial arts before. This place is serious, but in a good way. I mean the workouts are hard, the technique very real, some of the guys here are killers (watched one of the guys in my class KO a guy in 14 seconds at a local kickboxing show!) but I'm an average joe who they pay attention to, are patient and have corrected a zillion times (I promise that by the end of next year I will learn my left and right). I"ve lost about 10 punds and along the way learned a few deadly punches, not bad at all. I highly recommend this place, Im surrised more people don't join

I started doing kickboxing at the gym, but I wanted to do more classes a week and also wanted to make contact with something (I wanted heavy bag classes) I found this gym in the paper, figured a free class was worth giving it a shot. What I found out is that at my local gym I am NOT doing kickboxing, I'm doing aerobics. Now I am doing real kickboxing, learning real kicks and feel great. The workouts are no joke, you sweat and the next day after the first class I couldn't walk, serious. But that's what I want, a real workout, not some fluff. Very friendly staff, lots of classes. I highly recommend this gym

I used city search to find kickboxing classes and ended up trying several different ones listed here, without a doubt new york sanda was teh best and that is why i joined. A friendly staff answered all my questions BEFORE the class, made me feel comfortable and helped me in my first class. Since then I've lost quite a few pounds, feel better and am having fun. Each class is different, there are several different teachers and a huge schedule so I can always jump in even when I run late. Family friendly too, I might sign up my nephew

Originally saw a small ad in one of the local papers, my boyfriend watches the UFC and told me I should learn some martial arts. I wasn't sure, but I figured, free class? how bad could it be? I was surprised to find two other women in the class, one who is an assisstant instructor and looks like she could KO a dude! Staff was friendly, I am a total beginner but I learned a few punches and a nasty knee. It was a great workout. I jumped head first I guess because I paid for 6 months up front, which was a pretty good deal. Don't think I'll be fighting any time soon, but it's fun, I'm getting a workout and now that I watch those fights I know what an elbow strike is

I did some karate and never found it very practical, and I felt like I was wearing my pj's to class. I watched some Spike TV and joked with my wife that maybe I should try a mixed martial arts class, so she hands me a newspaper ad from this place. I wore my gym clothing, was in class with adults, not kids. I sweated like a pig and I learned stuff I think would actually be useful if anyone ever tried to attack me (not that I think it's ever gonna happen) NIce friendly staff, school is clean, lots of equipment, lots of classes. Prices are good for NY, what do you expect? But a little over 100 bucks isn't so bad really. If my wife wants to join, she's half price, so I guess thats the real deal. I recommend it

I had taken a class at the old location but my schedule had gotten in the way of joining. I went back this month (new year's thing) and found out that not only had they expanded the classes but the new location was so much better. Old reviews mentioned the bad bathroom, new one has marble! Not that it really matters. What matters is that they have tons of classes, different membership options and it's the only real MMA place in teh city. My girlfriend just took a cardio class and will probably join also and if she does they even have a family plan. This is a great place

One of the only true MMA schools in Manhattan. They've got good kickboxing classes as well as brazilian jiu-jitsu and the classes are 6 days a week. Couple this with a moderate price and I"VE GOT A NEW GYM! The space is great with a boxing ring and several bags. THe only thing it's missing is showers!!!!

I saw an ad for NY San Da in the Metro newspaper then read all of the reviews here on CitySearch and checked out their site. I made an appointment for a free class- Cardio Kickboxing. The workout kicked my A$$ and the next morning I was sore in places that I haven't been sore in years. I decided to sign up immediately. This is not for the faint of heart (or pocket), but for those looking for an exceptional workout with personal instruction. I have taken 3 classes so far and there has never been more than 10 people at each class. The instructors are friendly and they check on you to make sure you're using proper form. Since I already have a regular gym membership I've decided to try this out for a month before deciding whether to cancel my regular gym membership. Some things that others didn't mention: 1- There is no real locker room. It's more like a dressing room with a curtain. If you're shy about changing in front of people, then change before you get there. 2-The bathroom leaves mu... Read more

I actually got dragged to class by a friend who was interested, I never thought I'd do kickboxing. But I liked it, even when my friend turned out not to join. I was a little nervous about joining by myself, but everyone is friendly and the staff keeps you from feeling like a total idiot when you first start. A little crowded, but that's good if you want to hide in the back (I usually do). I feel a lot better about myself since taking this class. I"m not a boxer, I don't want to get hit, but I like being able to hit a bag! I'd recommend it, because if I can do it, I guess anyone can

Martial arts school and gym offers classes for all ages in fitness kickboxing and the modern fighting technique San Da.

I'm still the new guy but I love NY sanda. I always wanted to do martial arts but didn't want to feel like an idiot. classes here aren't full of bowing and ritual, but you are also learning the real stuff. It is a great work out and you are learning self defense.

After trying a few things I've found that kickboxing is the workout for me. I see the results, nice toning without bulk, I feel more energy and it kicks my stress in the butt. I find myself actually going to the gym now. With different classes and several staff members, it always seems pretty new. I also like the ability to hit stuff! Bags, pads, suitcase pads, kick it, punch it, elbow it! Friendly and helpful staff is also a big plus IMO. highly recommend NY San Da

I admit it, I've joined like 5 gyms and each time, I went like twice and never went again. Friends told me to try karate, or kickboxing... I was skeptical. NY Sanda offered a free class so I figured I'd give it a shot. Now I'm in class at least 3 times a week. It's NOT like a gym, it's fun and each class is different. I have seen great results, feel much better about myself, even looking at some new clothes LOL! They are very nice people, and they will treat you with class. The bag classes is my favorite, love to hit stuff now

I looked at a lot of kickboxing places, some were like taebo aerobics, others were run by crazy people I was worried were gonna injure me. I went to a free class here and half way into the class I knew I'd be signing up. A good workout mixed with good technique. The instructor was friendly and helpful. They gave me the info on membership with no BS and no pressure. The first month I did an open ended, by the end of the month I just paid for a year up front (the real deal, no better deal in NYC) Beginners will feel welcome, even if you end up working with a national kickboxing champion (which is what happened to me!)

Dear lord, I wanted a workout but I never expected this! One 45 minute session and I was drenched in sweat and had to sign up. Two things keep me coming back, the classes constantly change so they are never boring, and I see RESULTS!!!! I lost a dress size since I joined, less than 6 weeks ago.... try a free class, they're friendly and even if you are like me with two left feet they will get you kickboxing!!!

I just wanted to say it is great small school packed w/ students from all different level of skills and very enthusiastic instructors who teaches students with respect and patience. Class is always challenging and never stale. My fave. is the heavy bag class and fitness resistance training. My strengthened bicep is the proof !!

Beginning this year I wanted to try a new workout that will jumpstart my weight loss as what I was doing wasn't really going anywhere... As of now, one month after I started kickboxing. I can say with confidence it is quickest and most effective workout I've ever tried. I am thrilled to go back to the gym everyday because it is fun and exciting. Kickboxing rocks !!! Pros: Covinient location, small class, knowledgeable staff

This is easily the best gym I have ever belonged to and by far the most comprehensive exercise program I expect to undertake. There are contact kickboxing, kung fu, cardio, hitting bags/focus mitts to sparing (non-contact), grappling and mixed martial arts (MMA). Whatever your goal is there is a program for you. Joined few weeks ago and I already see the signs of training on me. I've been in class everyday except weekend. My arms are in best shape ever in my 7 years overall fitness trainging. Should have done it sooner.

I've been looking for a gym that has solid experience /training program in kickboxing. And I am happy that I found perfect school near my work in mid-town. Instructors are certified & throughly explaining the basic techniques until I got them correctly from the beginning which is great because my hook really needed correction. Noticed the contact kickboxing class is really helping my coordination and speed. Also thinking about taking grappling class as I want to get into MMA. Great quality for the skill I am learning for the same money I 've spent on the mindless gym membership over the years...

This is a small member-focused gym run by owner. Its as close to personal training as you can get at a gym price. Offers comprehensive exercise programs - contact kickboxing, cardio, heavy bags, sparing, grappling and MMA. The instructors are encouraging and work closely w/students according to their individual skill levels. Ive never been athletic although I was member of many gyms in NYC. I started w/trial membership but I have extended it ever since because I saw the result. Ive been member since'02 & its still fun. The classes, the staff, the trainging brothers Ive made, all are amazing. I thinks this gym will be great for the experienced as well as the beginner. If you are looking for gym w/ challenging variety of workout @ no-frills high-energy classes then this one is it. Highly recommend.

The entire staff is very knowledgeable and they pass the knowledge on in the perfect way. The fitness classes are very intense but do-able and the kickboxing training is top notch. I love the place.

I saw them in the newspaper and called up, asked for prices. At first, it seemed they were a litttle expensive, but then I took the free class and found out THEY ARE WORTH IT. I took a free class with Ian, little hottie boy! and he worked us to death, but in a good way :) So, if you want a workout and want some candy for your eyes, there is no better place. Try a heavy bag or the boot camp, both great classes!

I did karate and judo as a kid, wanted to get back into shape last few years. I tried kickboxing at a health club, it wasn't serious at all. Then I noticed there is a kickboxing place on the same street that I work on! Wow! New York sanda is the city's best kept secret. It's a great workout but more importantly it's a great environment. The workout is serious but the attitude is light. I'm not so young but I feel right at home, even next to 20 year old kids! It's also nice to see a gym that isn't sexist, lots of women in class as well. If you want a great total body workout, even if you aren't in top shape NOW, they'll get you there.

If you want to kick, box, learn wrestling and how to figh for real, this is the city's only real MMA gym!!! I went to a few before I found new york sanda but no place has this kind of instruction. And for the number of classes they offer and the gym they have, a full boxing ring, thai boxig bags, weights you can't beat the price. I am very happy here and have already recommended it to all my buddies