Business Details
17 Years
experience
Your Premier Martial Arts Training Center in Rensselaer, NY
At Lions Den Martial Arts, we embody the spirit of family through our commitment to martial arts excellence. Founded in 2009, our Rensselaer-based academy has grown into a community where members of all ages thrive under the guidance of world-class instructors. Our structured curriculum emphasizes technical proficiency, personal growth, and competitive success, with programs spanning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, MMA, and wrestling. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive environment where students achieve goals ranging from self-defense mastery to championship competition.Our affiliation with renowned institutions like Renzo Gracie Academy and partnerships with law enforcement agencies underscore our dedication to quality instruction. With over 15 years of operational experience and a proven track record of producing state champions, we combine traditional martial arts values with modern training methodologies to deliver exceptional results.
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Muay Thai
Mixed Martial Arts
Wrestling
Judo
Youth Programs
Law Enforcement Training
Private Sessions
Competition Prep
Self-Defense
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We offer 13+ years of proven martial arts instruction with championship results
- Our structured curriculum ensures measurable progress in all skill levels
- Family-oriented environment with intergenerational training opportunities
- Law enforcement partnerships for specialized combatives training
- Access to UFC-level instructors through regular seminars and affiliations
What people say
World-class instructors
Supportive community
Championship results
Structured curriculum
Family-friendly environment
Services
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program teaches practical self-defense techniques through ground fighting and submission holds. Students develop physical fitness, mental discipline, and competitive skills in a structured environment. The curriculum emphasizes technical mastery over brute strength, making it accessible to all body types.
Muay Thai
This stand-up striking discipline incorporates punches, kicks, knees, and clinch work. Our program focuses on proper technique, conditioning, and practical application for both self-defense and sport competition. Classes include pad work, sparring, and traditional drills.
Mixed Martial Arts
Integrated combat training combining Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, and Judo techniques. Designed for students with foundational skills in multiple disciplines, this program develops well-rounded fighters through live sparring and scenario-based drills.
Youth Programs
Age-specific curricula for children aged 4-13 build confidence, discipline, and physical coordination. Programs include structured belt progression, competition preparation, and character development through martial arts principles.
Wrestling
Olympic-style wrestling instruction focusing on takedowns, control, and defensive techniques. Our NCAA Division 1 experienced coaches develop athletes through technical drills, live practice, and competition strategy sessions.
People
Tom Svingala
Head Instructor
Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with 25+ years martial arts experience. Trained under UFC legends and Renzo Gracie. Coached 30+ MMA fighters including UFC athlete Mike Davis.
Trent Svingala
Instructor
2x State Wrestling Champion with NCAA Division 1 experience. Black Belt in BJJ under Matt Secor. Certified EFC Law Enforcement Combatives instructor with 2-0 MMA record.
Caleb Svingala
Instructor
BJJ Black Belt with 200+ competition wins. Former University at Buffalo wrestler. 2-0 MMA record with multiple NAGA championship titles. Specializes in youth instruction.
Jason Morris
Judo Coach
Olympic Medalist in Judo with national championship experience. Develops comprehensive stand-up defense techniques for BJJ and MMA students through Saturday morning classes.
Brody Svingala
Youth Coach
Green Belt in BJJ with 10+ years training experience. Assists in youth programs while continuing personal development through training with UFC athletes and international seminars.
Questions
What martial arts programs do you offer?
We offer Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, MMA, Wrestling, and Judo for both children and adults.
Are there family discounts available?
Yes, we offer competitive family rates that provide significant savings for multiple family members training together.
Do you offer law enforcement training?
Yes, we have a specialized EFC Combatives program approved by the Department of Justice for law enforcement personnel.
What age can children start training?
Our youth programs accept children as young as 4 years old through our Lions Cub program.
Do you have competition preparation?
Yes, we have a proven track record preparing students for local and national competitions in all disciplines.
Are there trial options available?
We offer a $20 day pass that applies toward membership if you join within one week.
