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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   David Muirhead 
 October 9, 2022
 
 
  Dropped in on a BJJ class  while traveling for work.  As a beginner hobbyist I was a little intimidated walking in the door.  I was made to feel welcome the minute I stepped in.   Good Culture, high level instruction and overall great experience.   No matter what your goals are, or experience level this a great place to train.
  
 
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   Virginia Mae 
 May 5, 2018
 
 
  I dropped in for the Friday 7pm no-gi BJJ class while visiting from out of town.  The instructor Matt was extremely welcoming and introduced me to the class.  His class was challenging yet suitable for all ranges of experience and he provided great personal feedback to all students.  Great atmosphere and an incredible facility!
  
 
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   Paul Vue 
 June 17, 2022
 
 
  I have only been training here for a month. The classes are very fun and I am excited to go every time. The team is very friendly and the coaches all take time to help me. This school is very famous and successful. My family in California even know about this school. If you think you are interested I suggest trying it out to see!
  
 
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   Andrew Ritter 
 August 21, 2026
 
 
  Clean and well run gym with high level training partners and very knowledgeable and experienced coaches
  
 
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   Erik Dahl 
 June 14, 2022
 
 
  My journey in BJJ at the Academy has been nothing short of excellent.  My journey has had good and caring Shepards; from Coach Nat’s intro class, to Coach John’s warm welcome on my first day in fundamentals, and currently Coach Andy’s strong and unrelenting desire to see his students build their skill and creativity.  I feel privileged to be a student here, as it really is a special place.  Come and train at The Academy, you see it for yourself.
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.5 of 5, based on 445 reviews