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

    
 
 
      Posted on Facebook  
   
   Scott Marsh 
 July 13, 2018
 
 
 recommends My wife and I really enjoyed the BJJ training at Minnesota Martial Arts Academy.  Top notch instruction by Sensei Greg Nelson.  We definitely will go back and would recommend this academy to anyone who wants to  in the Martial Arts.
  
 
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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  
   
   A Haub 
 June 4, 2013
 
 
  It all started when I decided I wanted to have a better exercise regimen. I was unsatisfied with working out in a regular fitness gym, I worked in health care, and I understand that their primary culture was to live it. I was all for it, and it did spark me to get in gear. I was due for another weight loss, I gained too much from not enough exercise and I was tired of dragging around my spare tire.

I have been training at The Academy for the last 3 years in private lessons and classes. I remember being one of the three women in classes and you are treated very well. I'm happy to see that more women are joining classes and I think overall it's a fun experience and you're learning to defend yourself!

I have to say this was one of the better choices I have made for my physical fitness and having played high impact sports all my life, this was a great fit. I lost 40lbs in the first 6 months, and then another 20lbs in a year. I was very committed to coming because the curriculum is interesting, the coaches are positive, awesome, and push you to do the best you can. The members that are there are very kind, friendly, dedicated and supportive.

You will be challenged and pushed, this gym isn't for people that are not committed in making a real lifestyle change.  They offer you a potential to really see what you're made of.  It is hard for a reason, and the coaches and people that are there are willing to get you to your goals.

You will find some of the hardest working and passionate individuals at this gym.

I really have appreciated what I have been able to accomplish at The Academy, and I will continue to attend The Academy as long as I can.
  
 
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   Jeff Byles 
 November 3, 2026
 
 
  It would quite difficult to find a gym better equipped, with more experienced coaches or better amenities. I came for grappling, but the gym itself is huge (but not intimidating) and very clean. Coaches are kind and experienced. Its one of the longest running in the metro area after visiting its easy to see why. If your thinking of starting bjj, striking or any other martial arts, this is the place.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Corey Jurgenson 
 August 14, 2021
 
 
 recommends World class coaches. Training to fit your needs. Multiple class times to fit anyone’s schedule. Family atmosphere Highly recommended for anyone looking to get fit or learn a new skill
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.5 of 5, based on 445 reviews