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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   Alexander Janorschke 
 April 25, 2019
 
 
  My uncle has been training at The Academy for ten years, and the owner was kind enough to allow my brother and I to drop in on classes twice during our trip to Minnesota. Although neither of us are very experienced, the coaches took time to roll with each of us and give us feedback! Several world champions call this gym home and we couldn't have been treated better! Thank you for the classes and wisdom, I'll be back when I visit MN again!
  
 
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   Gr8ful Servant 
 September 8, 2021
 
 
  the best coaching staff. world class training for all levels. from beginner to professional athletes. great kids program also. positive people who inspire others to live their life to the fullest. opera non verba
  
 
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   Linsey Williams 
 February 12, 2015
 
 
  While I was overseas on my first tour of duty with the Minnesota Army National Guard, I experienced for the first time something that I desired in my youth-- competitive grappling. I pursued this interest hobby-style anytime that I wasn't away from camp on a mission with a few like-minded troops. Upon returning to Minnesota, I realized that this was an element of my life that I could not live with Enter The Academy. I had a couple of recommendations and knew a couple of people who were familiar with the gym, which piqued my interest. What sustained my interest, however, was the incredible sense of camaraderie that came with being a student here. People were interested, they cared, and as with anything, you get out of it what you put into it. This gym has become home for me and has, and continues, to help me hone my martial arts skills and prowess in a half-dozen different ways. Now I am much more than a Weekend-Warrior with a hardcore hobby. Now I am pursuing bigger dreams of achieving a big shiny UFC 115 lb title and I know for a fact that without The Academy, the brilliant coaches around me, and my own dedication to this craft that would not be a feasible reality for me. Thankfully, I do have The Academy, brilliant coaches, and dedication to this craft. This, for me, is more than just a place to go and train. This is a home.
  
 
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   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  
   
   Rob Magao 
 January 14, 2015
 
 
 recommends High quality martial arts instruction. One of the best places to train anywhere....
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.5 of 5, based on 442 reviews