Pai's Taekwondo
“It's great for those of us who prefer a workout in community where everyone encourages each other to do our best.”
Best Self-Defense Classes in Schenectady, NY
13 schools listed · 4 in Schenectady · 9 open weekends · all 13 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 21, 2026
Electric City BJJ
“What separates Jason from many other gym owners and instructors is that he truly works to build real relationships with the people who train at his gym.”
Rotterdam Martial Arts
“I signed up my 16 year old that has some special needs for their Martial Arts class and she absolutely loves it.”
JK Kenpo
“If you want to learn effective martial arts in a well organized environment, this is the school to go to.”
Empire Defense & Fitness Inc
“Highly recommend, Alan and Cheryl are honorable and knowledgable people who will provide you with all the tools you need to exceed your goals.”
Brian Beaury Jiu Jitsu
“In my most recent session I was paired with 3 black belts as a white belt in a training session and they all gave incredible feedback as we were rolling.”
Short self-defense courses listed for Schenectady, NY are spread across the 13 cards on this page. Who each course is aimed at, where it runs and how often it repeats comes from the school itself, with ratings drawn from public reviews.
Area overview: Schenectady, NY
4 of the 13 schools we list are based in Schenectady; the other 9 serve Schenectady from towns including Albany (11 mi), Latham (9 mi) and Delmar (13 mi). The schools on this page are rated from 4.6 to 5.0 across 981 reviews; 6 have 50 or more reviews. The topics that come up most in reviews of the schools on this page are "atmosphere" and "skills". 9 are open on Saturdays and 5 on Sundays. 9 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 25 years. 1 is family- or locally-owned and 1 lists coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for 12 of the schools on this page; 10 publish a contact page; 9 list a public email and 6 take bookings online. We count these figures across the schools on this page; distances are straight-line, and hours and prices change, so confirm the details with the school before you enroll.
How do I get a course outline from schools listed for Schenectady?
By email, and 9 of the 13 schools here publish an address. Write with the group you have in mind, the room you can offer and what worries the group, then ask for a plan of the session. A school that replies with a price and nothing else has told you something.
Atlas Jiu Jitsu
“Professor Edward and the other instructors are extremely knowledgeable and committed to running a friendly, and safe training environment for anyone looking to get into combat sports, compete or improve their physical fitness.”
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Girl Fight Fitness
“I look forward to each and every class, and whatever the day has brought, I know that by the time I leave class, my mind will be clear and I will feel a sense of strength and accomplishment.”
Renzo Gracie Latham Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
“Amazing place to go and train jujitsu and Muay Thai they are the best instructors and will be there every step of the way to help you get better”
Clobber Jiu Jitsu Academy
“The sense of community here is unmatched, and I saw tremendous progress in my technique when I was training here (it was just a bit too far for me Long term as I live near Catskill).”
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JucÃo
“Coach Nash is the real deal, takes the time to put together a well thought out curriculum.”
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Aikido School of Self Defense
“Extremely knowledgeable and professional, Rick Wolslayer provides comprehensive training and important tools to help you feel as prepared as possible for any given situation you may be confronted with and makes it fun and comfortable.”
Victory Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
“I had to stop going due to scheduling conflicts, but I absolutely recommend Victory Jiu-Jitsu to anyone.”
Why these companies made our list
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