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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   Josh Lamkin 
 September 21, 2016
 
 
 recommends Honestly when I joined the academy the first time I was home. The coaches, the fighters, the people are all so welcoming , helpful and insightful. My life took some unexpected turns and I had to stop after about 2 years, but now I've finally gotten to a point where I'm able to start training again and honestly it was the greatest decision i could have made. If you have a passion for martial arts, spirituality, and finding yourself through self discipline this is the place to be. Whether it's a casual interest or a serious passion you will not be disappointed with what you find here.
  
 
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   Janelle Sn 
 August 30, 2015
 
 
 recommends I started my martial arts training here before moving out of state. I come train here sporadically when I'm in town, and I'm always happy that I attend; the instructors greet me by name, and the students in the class are focused and make great training partners. The professor/instructor attention to detail is wonderful. I enjoy learning a style different from my 'home' school. 

I'd recommend The Academy to anyone!  Thank you for your awesome hospitality!
  
 
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   NIck Puchtel 
 April 22, 2019
 
 
  Best damn coaches! Very respectful of martial arts but not to a weird extent! Gracy JJ, Muay Thai we're both life changing for me!
  
 
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   Kerry Kapaun 
 October 20, 2016
 
 
 recommends The Academy is one of a handful of training facilities that I can wholeheartedly recommend.  I recall many years ago, when a person training at the Academy was provoked in my business by a mentally challenged person.  The boast by the person immediately had the attention of the Academy’s student, (he was in his face) but after a moment, the Academy student just walked away.  Upon returning to the store that evening for an item the person had been interested in, I thanked him for not escalating the situation.    The person told me that he looked into the boasters eyes, and knew that he was not fully aware of what he had just said, and knew to walk away.  I’ve told this story of training and discipline to many customers looking to train seriously in martial arts, the right way.  Kerry, MKS
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Salahudiyn Memnon 
 December 21, 2013
 
 
 recommends Very complete in hands and weapon  techniques
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.5 of 5, based on 444 reviews