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!

See Details

Grappling

Gain Strength, Cardio and Self Defense. Using Technique Leverage and Control

See Details

MMA

Combine Wrestling, BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing And More To Be Fight Ready

See Details

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  
   
   Betty Chin-Wu 
 January 19, 2013
 
 
  For as long as I can remember, I've been fascinated with martial arts and have the deepest respect for its traditions. As a kid, I studied Wushu for a few years. The interest in martial arts alone, was also what led me to meeting my husband. Prior to joining the Academy, I was not in the best form in terms of mental and physical health. My husband knew how much I love martial arts. He got me to join him at The Academy. While hesitant at first due to my own insecurities, I decided to give it a shot anyway. After taking my leap of faith, I was entranced by the art of Muay Thai, its practicality, and most of all, The Academy's moral values. I developed a great respect for the many coaches who work day in and out to mentor all students. From day one in my foundations class til now, I look around and I see more than just people training Muay Thai/ BJJ. They are practicing to take leaps of faith. Everyone has a demon of their own. They are taking the chance to look fear in the eye, and conquer it, one training session at a time. Some of us are hope to enter the ring. However, my own fight is fighting for better health. The reason why I want to share my review is not to brag about weight loss results in any way. I just hope to reach out to other people struggling like myself. Taking a leap of faith can't be done alone. Give this place a shot, and give yourself a chance to take your own leap of faith. To better health and happiness. Cheers!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Carlos Morales 
 January 30, 2019
 
 
  My son was diagnosed with ADHD in Mississippi at 2 years old,   prior moving to MN SEPT 2015. After intensive doctors visits and medication treatment here in MN at the age of 5, he enrolled at ACADEMY, & no meds or counseling needed now! Despite the challenges from where he started, 3 years now my son has improved and the coaches are like family, staff, coaches,  and trainers, athletes are very welcoming!!! You will also see Greg Nelson middleweight Champion! Very humble individual!!!! #discipline # fundamentals # respect
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tim Leary 
 June 14, 2022
 
 
  I started going to the Academy a little over 5 years ago. The Academy has made me a better person, I only wish I started earlier. I feel so lucky to be a part of the Academy! Anyone that’s thinking about it, come in and check it out. See you on the mats.
  
 
     Posted on Facebook  
   
   Ashley Robarge 
 July 25, 2014
 
 
 recommends My 5 year old son just completed summer camp and became a white belt! We are looking forward to starting him in the "tiny ninja" classes. They have excellent programs for kids. I would and have recommended this to everyone with kids that want to get into martial arts. The staff and coaches are amazing! I am tempted to take some muay thai classes myself. Thank you for everything so far and see you soon!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Eric Katzenmeyer 
 July 3, 2024
 
 
  Did a drop in NoGi Jiujitsu class with open roll after. I learned great techniques from Greg to sharpen my game. If I lived in the area, this is definitely a great place to go. Also looks like a great place for striking. I hope I get to come back later I  the week.
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.5 of 5, based on 442 reviews