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 Google  
   
   TheAcademy Barcelona 
 January 22, 2015
 
 
  I started attending The Academy in 1993 and I've seen some of the world's top martial artists pass through the academy doors. I've been able to train alongside the likes of Sean Sherk, Dave Menne, Greg Nelson and countless others. I know for a fact that training with these people at this facility has made an impact for the better in my life. No matter if you are a complete beginner or a top mma competitor, you'll find The Academy has great classes and training for you.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   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!
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   'Nico Dutka 
 July 19, 2013
 
 
 recommends The Academy is a highly rated MMA studio where you will train with top notch athletes and award winning coaches.  They say, "You get what you pay for" but I say, at The Academy, "You get a LOT MORE than what you pay for!"  I would recommend this studio to EVERYONE of ANY skill level and I hope to see you there!
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Tim Peterson 
 November 23, 2013
 
 
 recommends You could not find a better fight gym to train at.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Nico Dutka 
 June 27, 2013
 
 
  Best MMA school ever! Nice equipment, nice people, highly skilled trainers.  A+++ For those people that gave this school a low rating, know this:  YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR! Head Coach Greg Nelson teaches Army Rangers, Navy Seals, FBI and more!  The school is ranked VERY high, possibly in the top 10 in the country!  Coach Nelson was trained and certified under Dan Inosanto, the highest rated student of Bruce Lee.  He led the very first All-American team to the coveted Princess Cup in Thailand where they received several medals including 2 golds!!  There have been no less than 3 heavy weight UFC champions who were trained FROM SCRATCH exclusively at this school. YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR!
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.5 of 5, based on 441 reviews