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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   Jen Aune 
 October 29, 2017
 
 
 recommends The atmosphere at the Academy is incredibly positive, the people are absolutely friendly, the facility is inviting, clean and safe 🦋💛🦋 I enjoy visiting the academy when I have the chance to 👍🏽 Thank you for providing a top notch facility that my daughter enjoys learning Muay Thai!
  
 
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   David Ross 
 March 20, 2022
 
 
  Amazing experience. Staff is knowledgeable and a variety of classes are offered.
  
 
     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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   Aneisha DeNio 
 August 10, 2017
 
 
  The Academy is a great place for anyone who is wanting to explore martial arts. Whether you're just starting out or are an advanced fighter. The coaches really take the time to work with the students to make sure they understand the curriculum. The Academy offers a wide range of marital arts and has students of every skill level. I would recommend this gym to anyone who wants to give martial arts a try. I have been training here for almost a year and has quickly become a second home.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jonathon Phillips 
 October 19, 2020
 
 
  Signed my 14 yr old son up for foundations. The instructors are great and give lots of attention. Highly recommend The Academy MN
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.5 of 5, based on 442 reviews