★ 5

Sammy, the coaches and the staff truly cares about the community they are creating. This is what fitness should feel like!

Source: Google

★ 5

Empire Training Academy (ETA): where you question all your life choices for 60 minutes… and then walk out feeling like a superhero.

After my first few classes, my internal dialogue was: “Should I quit? Holy crap. Maybe I’ll fake an injury?” Walking in is intimidating - everyone looks 22 and carved from marble, while I’m over here just trying not to trip over my water bottle. But guess what? I’ve stuck with it, and I’m down 5.6% body fat in 2.5 months.

Full disclosure: I’m not an intense clean eater. I literally typed this after eating a (small, don’t judge me) bowl of Häagen-Dazs double chocolate chip ice cream.

The secret sauce here is Sammy and his trainers. They’re not clipboard statues - they circulate, interactively coach, encourage, and call you out (nicely) before your squat turns into a sad curtsy. They’re down-to-earth, not clique-y, and genuinely want you to win.

Bottom line: it’s hard, it’s sweaty, it’s humbling - but it works. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Cannot say enough good things about this place. The programming is great and the coaches make it fun but the best part of this gym is its owner. The passion he has is infectious and he truly cares about EVERY SINGLE member. Whatever journey you are on he has your back. He makes you feel appreciated as a customer and he is genuinely thankful to have you in his community. Definitely give Empire a try!

Source: Google

★ 5

I have been a member since February and enjoy each class. I like the variety of weights and core exercises. Sammy and staff are helpful and work with members of all ages.

Source: Google

★ 5

Empire is an amazing place for a great workout and an even better community. I’ve known Sammy for years—he’s always considerate of everyone’s personal progress and truly cares about helping people reach their goals. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

Awesome gym and awesome vibe! Sammy and team have put together a unique group workout program with top notch equipment that makes everyone feel included. Highly recommend if you’re in the triangle and want to sweat

Source: Google

★ 5

Genuinely the best workout and results! Have always craved a group fitness environment where I felt supported. All of the coaches have their own style of coaching and it makes for a great team. I have been with Empire since February and are already getting the “how did your arms get so toned” comments!! 100/10

Source: Google

★ 5

There's no place like Empire! Sammy and the coaches here are humble, energetic, and know what they are doing. They've created such a great space to have a killer workout and connect with so many great folks in the Raleigh area

Source: Google

★ 5

Obsessed with this gym is an understatement. Sammy is the nicest guy you'll ever meet who pushes you to be your best inside the gym and out. I've met the best community of folks who cheer me on in all aspects of my life. I'm a stronger, happier, better person because of ETA. So if you like being the best, being surround by the best, and great music, welcome to empire!

Source: Google

★ 5

Five stars for a five star community. A great place to build strength as well as relationships with great people.

Source: Google

★ 5

ETA is without a doubt the best fitness studio I have ever gone to!! I’ve known Sammy for years and I feel so lucky to have his support and guidance for so long. Sammy pours his heart and soul into ETA; he knows everyone’s name, when someone new comes into a class he immediately introduces himself, he pushes you to be better, he cares about you as a person, and he truly wants to (and has far succeeded in this) make a difference in people’s lives. I haven’t felt this sense of drive/community/accomplishment since being on a sports team! 11/10 starts for ETA!!!!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is more than a gym it’s a community. People who I knew peripherally prior to joining have now become good friends. People here lift you up, they don’t tear you down! So proud of Sammy and everything he’s accomplished and it’s all because of the support system he’s built and the relationships he has created in Raleigh. Oh and the playlists are pretty awesome too

Source: Google

★ 5

Best gym by far in the area! The people, workouts, coaches, and facility is top notch. Whether you are starting out on your fitness journey, in the middle of it, or even a pro 🤪 this place is definitely for you!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been with Empire since they opened and for the first time in a long time I don't dread going to the gym. It’s never boring or repetitive. In the past I’ve always gravitated towards a specific coach but I truly love every coach I’ve worked out with. The community is great and everyone is super friendly. I’ve been part of many group fitness programs and this one is miles above any other.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this gym, love this community. Sammy has built a community that encourages you to stay consistent and push yourself. I’ve never been much of a weights girl, but after being around such incredibly strong people it has encouraged me to lift heavier and more frequently.

Source: Google

★ 5

Real community

Source: Google

★ 5

Empire is the best! The coaches are knowledgeable, motivating, and care about your progress. The classes are structured, challenging and fun. My past experiences at group fitness studios have made me feel like I have plateaued, and that is the opposite at ETA. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a supportive and effective group fitness experience!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

As someone who has been a part of daily group fitness for over 15 years, this gym is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The attention to detail is unmatched - from the nicest equipment I’ve ever used, to the expertly designed programming - this is by far the best gym I’ve ever been a part of. I love that the coaching and programming is so tailored (unlike national brands that just throw random exercises at the masses) that it genuinely feels like a personal training session… all while having the unmatched support of the members and incredible community in the room with you. I literally don’t have a single bad thing to say about this place! So happy I made the switch from other big name gyms!

Source: Google

★ 5

Have struggled getting back into shape 2 years postpartum. The community at Empire has been life changing for me. I have lost weight but more importantly gained muscle back. I feel better and stronger than I did before. I have also become a 5amer because the people and the atmosphere here makes you motivated and excited to get in every morning and crush your goals. The specific workouts each day are tailored beautifully to a progressive program of strength and don’t feel random like other studios. If your looking for that missing puzzle to your routine, it’s Empire!

Source: Google

★ 5

Empire is the best gym in Raleigh and has been a sanctuary for me during a tough year in my life! The atmosphere, people, and workouts are amazing and I am thankful for this fitness community.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Today marked my 40th class since joining in January and the transformation has been real. Massive thanks to Sammy and all of the trainers at Empire for the relentless, game-changing training week after week. I'm miles ahead of where I started and the results speak for themselves. On top of that, the atmosphere at the gym is unmatched, super welcoming and filled with a tight-knit community that genuinely supports each other. If you're looking for a next-level fitness experience with great people, this is the place for you.

*Before picture was taken on November 26th, 2024 and the after pictures were taken on April 23rd, 2025

Source: Google

★ 5

Trained here while in town for work. Great atmosphere, equipment, and people!

Will definitely be back again!

Source: Google

★ 5

Empire training Academy (ETA) is the best in class! 10/10

I’ve had the privilege of training with Owner Coach Sammy for close to fours years now. I can honestly say he is one of the best coaches I’ve ever had! He is humble, genuine, motivating and knowledgeable in his craft. He and his team will give you a personalized experience in a group setting. All fitness levels are welcome and his team will help you achieve more than you can imagine!

This is more than just a group workout. This is truly a training gym that will help you reach your fitness goals and beyond! Strength, conditioning, mobility & a little competition to be the best version of yourself!

This community is amazing - welcoming, encouraging and will push you to greater strengths together!

Don’t wait any longer to be a part of ETA & Hope to see you in class soon!

Source: Google

★ 5

I became a member of ETA just three weeks ago after exploring several large gyms, CrossFit classes, and bootcamp-style fitness studios. What sets ETA and Sammy apart from any other gym experience I've had is their customized, specialized workouts. Each 12-minute segment is carefully crafted with a specific goal in mind. I truly admire Sammy's relentless dedication to ETA. His team goes above and beyond to rearrange the gym every day, ensuring that the workout runs seamlessly and reducing any downtime between the 12-minute intervals. Sammy motivates you to challenge yourself while also making sure your form is spot on! Thank you, ETA!

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been training at Empire since it opened, and I can't recommend it enough! The trainers are fantastic at correcting my form, which has really helped me improve my workouts and prevent injuries. The music is always on point, keeping the energy high and making it a fun atmosphere to work out in.
What I love most is their focus on strength training and conditioning. I can feel myself getting stronger each week. Plus, the overall environment is super supportive and motivating.

Fun fact: Empire has been a significant part of my journey. After being in the pre-diabetic range for years, I just found out that I'm finally out of it! I truly appreciate Sammy for his guidance, support, and encouragement.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you're looking for a gym that truly pushes you to your limits, Empire Training Academy (ETA) is the place to be! Sammy puts so much thought and effort into curating hardcore workouts that challenge your body every time. As someone who has done both endurance sports and weightlifting, I can say with confidence that this gym delivers an intense workout that allows you to challenge yourself at every station.

Beyond the workouts, the atmosphere is unmatched. Killer music, an amazing group of people, and a supportive community. You won’t find this kind of energy anywhere else. ETA is THE place to be!

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is awesome! The programming is great, with a perfect mix of daily strength, core, and endurance training. I really enjoy the four individual workout blocks, which let you go at your own pace while still getting a well-rounded workout. The equipment is high-quality making every session smooth and enjoyable. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the trainers do a great job of keeping you motivated while paying attention to form. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve endurance, or just get in a great workout, this gym delivers. Highly recommend!

Source: Google

★ 5

I absolutely love Empire! From the moment I walked in, I felt like part of the family. The gym offers incredible accessibility to lift heavy weights, which has been a game-changer for me. The coaches are top-notch—knowledgeable, supportive, and always pushing me to do my best. The sense of community here is unmatched, and it truly feels like a family. I’ve already noticed significant improvements in both my physique and strength after 4 weeks of consistently taking class. Highly recommend Empire to anyone looking to take their fitness to the next level!

Source: Google

★ 5

As someone who wasn’t really into “lifting” or “weight training” prior to Empire.. let me just say- this has changed the GAME. Prior to ETA I was very intimidated by lifting because it was so new to me AND I wasn’t sure it would give me the results I wanted (slimming down). I was proven wrong though. Not only does it give me the results but it’s the thing I most look forward to on days when I am signed up. Sammie has created such an awesome vibe in this gym. The music, the people, the workouts.. it’s a 10/10 experience. A niche detail that I love about ETA is knowing what kind of workout you can expect BEFORE you sign up for the class.
Loving ETA & will definitely continue training here!!

Source: Google

★ 5

Sammy has made group training enjoyable again. His training plan is focused on becoming athletic and he’s great about correcting form to make sure you get the most out of your workout.

I haven’t had a gym membership in about 10 years because I don’t like the typical group fitness environment. After I took my first class I was ready to sign up. Now I look forward to going to class.

Source: Google

★ 5

After moving to Raleigh, I tried about four other gyms before discovering Empire, and none of them come close. From my very first class, I was sold. I love the setup, the atmosphere, and the energy. Sammy, the owner, is an excellent trainer who creates a fun and motivating environment. This gym makes me even more excited to live in Raleigh, and I’m so happy to be a part of this community as it continues to grow.

Source: Google

★ 5

I’m typically not a group fitness class person, but Empire’s programming is top notch. I’ve been part of empire for the last month and in that time my resting heart rate has gone down, and my cardio recovery has drastically improved. If you’re looking for a good workout and a motivating gym community, this is the place to be.

Source: Google

★ 5

If you live in Raleigh and looking for a workout community of like-minded men and women who wanna get stronger and fitter, Empire Training Academy is for you.

As a doctor of physical therapy, I'm always looking for boutique style group training studios with solid and intelligent coaching and programming to send my clients to.

The owner and head coach, Sammy Siegel, does a great job at programming the right intensity of strength, stability, mobility, and cardio where you are working hard, but have time to recover, so that you are not completely smashed after your workout; this allows you to sustain your energy throughout the entire class.

I think many group class training programming consists of high rep volume and high intensity with hardly any rest, which minimizes quality reps and reduces strength gains and good technique, which can lead to injury.

As a member of ETA, I can say that I would fully trust Sammy and his team with my physiotherapy clients as they "graduate" from our physio program.

Source: Google

★ 5

Empire Training Academy is everything that Raleigh and the group fitness space has needed. The community has been incredible and Sammy, the owner, is nothing but humble and appreciative of every single person who walks in that door. The workouts have pushed me so much more than I have been pushed in other community fitness spaces and there’s always a heavy emphasis on form. After my first class, I was sold and I cannot wait to see this gym and community continue to grow. ETA is superior and I am so excited to be apart of something so incredible!

Source: Google

★ 5

As a former college athlete, I’ve always gravitated towards group fitness, surrounded by a community with similar goals, but I didn’t realize that my routine was lacking the challenging and motivating classes, as well as the support of a great coach. At Empire Training Academy, I’ve found not only the intensity I was missing but also an encouraging and welcoming community that pushes me to be my best. This group fitness setting allows the coach to provide guidance, modifications, and push each of us to reach our individual goals. Everyone is focused on their own progress, but you can certainly find support and motivate here! Raleigh is lucky to have this gym!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

Wow! All I can say is it’s all in the name. Sammy is truly building an empire. If you are looking for a workout that covers all the bases, this is your place. If you are tired of working out alone or just need that extra push, this is the place to be. This workout is a good mixture whether you love CrossFit or just enjoy getting a workout in. The community being built here is like no other and you can’t beat having someone who pays attention to their members and caters to what they need. I highly recommend you give it a try and you can thank me later.

Source: Google

★ 5

Best gym in Raleigh, I have known Sammy for a super long time and he is super passionate and excited about the workouts which radiates to the rest of group. Very good mix of strength and conditioning. Cannot say enough about this gym.

Source: Google

★ 5

Came for a challenging workout and gained a new “home base” with an amazing community as well.

Empire is exactly what I’ve been looking for since relocating from the DC area 3 years ago. The programming, environment and members make my 1 hour round trip worth it every week. Whether you’re new to fitness or have been training for years, Sammy & his team have something for you. You can select which days fit your weekly workout split to help you reach your personal fitness goals. While the gym looks sleek and sexy, the members are still down to earth, dedicated & welcoming. What a great combo!

After my first trial class, it was a no brainer. It’s been a couple weeks since and I’m happy to report that I leave excited to come back again. Try it out for yourself !

Source: Google

★ 5

This is the gym I have been hoping to find for years!

I love a group fitness class, but every single one I previously attended was so cardio based / didn’t lift heavy weight - so it was impossible to really put on muscle. Additionally, didn’t feel like I’d get enough of a good workout if I went to a commercial gym by myself.

Empire training is 100% the best of both worlds! This class incorporates heavy barbell / dumbbell lifting, so you can actually push yourself weight wise - but keeps enough of a pace to really tire your muscles out.

I leave drenched in sweat every time, but it’s because of the weight I’m pushing and not useless cardio movements to get my heart rate up.

Sammy is a top notch trainer and an even better person! Cannot recommend this gym enough!

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym hits all the points! Great coach, great atmosphere, great vibe, great workouts, great (and needed) recoveries—-and then wrap it all up with a coach with inspires you and then hands you a cold towel. Trust me, try it once and you’ll be hooked.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is UNMATCHED! I went in for my first workout and was completely hooked. I have been so excited to go back everyday! Sammy, the owner, literally cares so much about every single person who walks through that door! His passion to provide a phenomenal workout and workout environment for everyone is just insane! So proud of you, Sammy! Go to Empire Training Academy! You will not regret it!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

This gym is exactly what Raleigh needed! The attention to detail is unmatched, from the lighting, to the equipment, to the cold towels at the end of the workout, top notch! You can tell Sammy poured his heart and soul into this gym! The best mix of strength with a little bit of cardio and the right amount of recovery! Thanks for bringing the energy to the Triangle Sammy 🔥

Source: Google

★ 5

Sammy brings world class programming that is practical, challenging, ever-evolving and actually helps drive fitness results. ETA offers every piece of top-of-the-line equipment you can imagine for thoughtful (killer!) workouts adaptable for all levels and is underpinned by an owner and coach with endless expertise who truly loves what he does. To top it all off, Sammy’s vision and approach to fitness as a lifestyle and a passion helps create such a strong sense of community within each of the classes. Truly a can’t miss fitness experience!

Source: Google

★ 5

Best group fitness workout ever!!! The energy and music are unmatched.

Source: Google

★ 5

Class workouts are 4 12 mins groups, with different exercises based on the focus of the day. Schedules are the same for the month (ex. upper body day monday), and are rotated monthly. The programming is primarily strength based, but some cardio and flexibility as well. Every day is different, for those who get bored of the same workout, but intentional.

I've know Sammi from a different group gym. He's a great coach who meets you where you are at and gives great tips and encouragement, and it doesnt matter if it's your first class in 5 years, or you are an experienced fitness athlete. His guidance is always helpful and 100% judgement free.

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing workout, environment & community! The owner, Sammy, is personable and motivating. The cold eucalyptus towels at the end of class are such a nice touch as well.

Source: Google

★ 5

Sammi was very energetic and my wife and I had a killer workout! The interior of the gym is absolutely awesome and after our workout the staff brought us cold essential oil face towels. One of the best workouts I’ve had in a long time!

Source: Google

★ 5

These classes are one of a kind!! I just finished my first class and can say l would recommend anyone and everyone. You can go at your own pace but you also feel motivated with everyone else that you wanna try your hardest and push yourself. The classmates are so friendly along with the instructor.

Source: Google