WELCOME TO THE ACADEMY
#1 MaRTIAL ARTS CLASSES IN MN

At the Academy we provide you with the tools, experience, and knowledge you need to achieve your goals.

Modern and Traditional

SAFE & FUN training for All! No matter your age, skill or fitness level we have a program that is right for you. Reach your potential with our martial arts classes.

Our Martial Arts Programs

Kickboxing

Fitness, Fun and Self-Defense. Use Your Entire Body As A Weapon!

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Grappling

Gain Strength, Cardio and Self Defense. Using Technique Leverage and Control

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MMA

Combine Wrestling, BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing And More To Be Fight Ready

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The Academy Advantage

We are the #1 Martial Arts gym in MN! We offer classes in Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, MMA, Boxing, Judo, Wrestling, JKD & Filipino Kali. Since 1992, we have been helping people of all walks of life improve their lives through practicing martial arts.

GOT QUESTIONS?

What is the difference between Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai & MMA?

Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling based art that focus on joint locks, strangles, and controlling positions. Muay Thai is a striking focused art that uses the entire body to create effective strikes. MMA is the combination of striking and grappling. It allows flowing seamlessly between combat ranges with striking and grappling.

What if I have no experience, what is right for me?

The majority of our students start with no experience. It's understandable to feel anxious/nervous. We have a friendly community spirit that is the bedrock of our culture. It's OK to try a few classes and see what resonates with you. If our school isn't the right one for you we will talk you out of joining. A lot of beginners have started their marital arts journey with us. We look forward to meeting you!

What happens in a typical class?

Who will coach me?

Who will I be practicing with?

Classmates come from all backgrounds, sizes, abilities, genders and experiences. Much of the work we do requires practicing with classmate, because combat is always with another individual. We pride ourselves on the friendly community and team spirit we have built over the years.

Do I have To Spar?

Will I get hurt?

There is risk with any physical activity and minor injuries do happen sometimes. Because of the inherent dangers of combative martial arts, the heightened awareness of safety keeps most people from any sort of catastrophic injury. The goal of our practice is developing real combat skills in a safe manner. Continued practice requires being un injured and therefore we use methods of learning that are safe and effective.

Is this stuff for fighters only?

How does Martial Arts enhance happiness and well being?

HEAR IT FROM OUR COMMUNITY

Greg Nelson is one of the best trainers in the game
Joe Rogan

Working with Greg Nelson has had a profound impact on my stunt and action directing career
David Leitch

I like the encouraging atmosphere and that nobody acts surprised or pats me on the back for being a girl and training hard.
karin Jacobson

My wife claims I have been a changed person at home since beginning training at The Academy…
Kelly Johnson

    
 
 
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   Gertrude Ogega 
 April 19, 2021
 
 
  The foundations introduction class is great for anyone that doesn’t know anything about martial arts & isn’t sure where to begin or even if it’s something they’re physical capable of. I had the wonderful opportunity to do a free intro class with one of the instructors, Shawn. He is welcoming, and creates a wonderful environment of trust & encouragement. A thank you to Matt, as well,  for the welcome package and helping make the signup process easy. Highly recommend this program and location.
  
 
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   Amber McCauley 
 September 17, 2015
 
 
 recommends Its been while since being here I'll be returning Monday miss the awesome coaches !!
  
 
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   Elaine Buckner 
 November 7, 2017
 
 
  Highly recommend this gym!  Spacious, clean, welcoming, dedicated, supportive, and professional staff/coaches. Go to facility for both Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu. Awesome kids classes too!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   josh buss 
 August 5, 2025
 
 
  Such amazing place to train. Great atmosphere and great professors.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Joni Kichler 
 June 27, 2012
 
 
  i was looking for kickboxing i was very nervous when i got there for my private lesson.. it was a lot better than i thought they do a free 30 day trial and if you do that and want to after the 30 day sign up there is a sign up fee but they waive that if u join right away still get 30 days free and just start paying the next month and you also get 60 day money back gaurtee if you dont like it after 60 days.. which is great! i was so nervous goign into first class thinking i would be out of place but that wasnt the case at all am very shy but i felt comfortable there would tell people to check them out
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.5 of 5, based on 443 reviews