In Raleigh, fitness is no longer just about burning calories or chasing personal records. It is about connection, consistency, and finding a place that feels like home. In a recent episode of the Best of Raleigh podcast, host Gretchen Coley sat down with Sam Siegel, founder of Empire Training Academy, to talk about how he built one of the most talked about strength focused fitness communities in the Triangle. What started as a vision rooted in athletics and discipline has grown into a movement that blends performance training with genuine human connection right here in Raleigh, North Carolina.

From College Athlete to Fitness Leader in Raleigh

Sam Siegel’s journey began far from Wake County. Originally from Long Island, New York, Sam spent much of his early life as a competitive baseball player. Like many college athletes, finishing his playing career came with an identity shift. He knew one thing clearly, a traditional desk job was not his path.

That clarity led him into the fitness industry, where he began coaching while still playing baseball. His professional career took shape at Orangetheory Fitness, where he gained hands on experience in group training, operations, and community building. When COVID hit, Sam felt a pull to start fresh. In September 2020, he relocated to Raleigh, a city that quickly felt like home.

Raleigh’s balance of growth and close knit community played a major role in his decision to stay. According to Sam, it feels big enough to build something meaningful but small enough that relationships truly matter. That sense of connection would later become the foundation of Empire Training Academy.

Why Empire Training Academy Is Different

While working in large scale group fitness, Sam noticed a recurring theme. People stayed for the community, even when the programming did not fully align with their personal fitness goals. That insight sparked the Empire vision.

Empire Training Academy was designed to close the gap between results driven strength training and the energy of group fitness. The programming focuses on progressive strength, structured phases, and safe barbell work, all within a group environment that can accommodate up to 48 people per class.

Classes are built around four 12 minute training blocks, combining barbell lifts, conditioning, and carefully programmed intervals using treadmills, rowers, bikes, or ski machines. Members repeat key lifts over four to six week cycles, allowing them to improve form, build strength, and see measurable progress over time.

It is not CrossFit, but it does borrow some interval style concepts. The emphasis stays on quality reps, safety, and coaching attention, which is something many Raleigh locals are actively seeking as they move away from generic workouts.

A Fitness Community That Feels Personal

What truly sets Empire apart is its culture. Sam believes that self care, especially for busy parents and professionals, can feel selfish. Empire reframes that idea by turning workouts into a social experience. Members are not just showing up to train, they are showing up to see people they care about.

The gym has become a place where friendships form, relationships begin, and milestones are celebrated. Sam shared stories of members who met at Empire and are now dating or engaged. Others have experienced life changing health improvements, including members reversing pre diabetic markers through consistent training.

Sam makes it a priority to know each member’s journey. Understanding where someone comes from, their struggles, and their goals allows coaches to push appropriately and support each individual in a meaningful way. That level of personal investment is a major reason Empire has become many members’ favorite hour of the day.

The Reality of Building a Business from the Ground Up

Like many local business owners in Raleigh, Sam is open about the challenges of entrepreneurship. One of the hardest lessons for him has been learning that leadership sometimes requires making decisions that not everyone will agree with. Balancing friendships, authority, and long term vision is an ongoing process.

Despite the uncertainty that comes with owning a growing business, Sam remains grounded. Empire is still young, but its rapid growth speaks to the demand for authentic, community driven fitness experiences in the Triangle area.

What the Future Holds for Empire Training Academy

Looking ahead, Sam’s vision extends far beyond Raleigh. His long term goal is to bring Empire Training Academy to every major city in the Southeast, and eventually along the East Coast. Expansion is already on his radar, supported by a strong coaching staff that delivers a consistent experience even when he is not on site.

For now, Raleigh remains home base, and Empire continues to grow as a cornerstone of the local fitness scene.

Visit Empire Training Academy in Raleigh

Empire Training Academy is located at 5003 Falls of Neuse Road in Raleigh, right next to Big Ed’s Country Kitchen. You can find them on Instagram at @empiretrainingacademyraleigh and follow founder Sam Siegel at @sammysieg_.

If you are looking for a strength focused workout, expert coaching, and a community that genuinely cares, Empire Training Academy is a place worth experiencing.