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Valley Self-Defense

Valley Self-Defense

5246 reviews
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About Valley Self-Defense

At Valley Self-Defense, we are passionate about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and dedicated to helping students of all experience levels discover the transformative power of this martial art. Located in Minnesota, Minnesota, our academy welcomes everyone from complete beginners to experienced grapplers.

Our experienced instructors bring years of dedicated training and a genuine love for the art to every class. We emphasize strong fundamentals, technical precision, and a supportive training culture where every student is encouraged to grow at their own pace.

We offer Adult programs designed to serve our diverse student body. Whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, competition, or simply the challenge of learning a complex martial art, Valley Self-Defense has a class for you.

Come experience the Valley Self-Defense community for yourself. Your first class is on us — we look forward to welcoming you to the mat.

Reviews

5
246 reviews
Sarah Carlson
2025-11-08

I just completed my first self defense class ever - kickboxing - and really enjoyed it. Shelly, one of the instructors, took time to thoroughly teach, coach and demonstrate (and demo again as needed) each step in a “routine”. The class is as much or as little of a workout as your body wants it to be and included some light stretching cardio and ab exercises. There was one other class of Brazilian JuJitsu happening at the same time, but it didn’t distract, interfere with or detract from my experience at all. Getting there is the hardest part - if you’re curious I recommend you just do it!

Dana Vannen Anderson
2025-10-13

My experiences with Valley Self-Defense have been amazing! Not only are they incredibly professional and knowledgeable, they treat every client professionally and with a great deal of personal respect. They meet their clients where they are, and make whatever accommodations and adjustments needed to make sure clients feel comfortable and have a positive learning experience. I am so grateful for the folks at Valley Self-Defense! Thank you for all you do!

Melissa Driscoll
2025-09-23

Valley Self Defense is absolutely amazing! My kids and I all take classes here, and we couldn’t be happier. The instructors are not only super knowledgeable, but also fun and encouraging. Such a great place for the whole family!

Katie Sackett
2025-11-29

Valley Self Defense is such a great place with a wide variety of class offerings. We've been here a couple times now and I'm so impressed with the way they interact with my kids.

Colin Fogarty
2025-08-10

Visited for the first time today, for a permit to carry class. This place is amazing! The instructor Peter was amazing and a very great teacher. Danae is also amazing and was very friendly. They were such great help today and so knowledgeable about what they were teaching. Cannot wait to see them again!

Frequently Asked Questions

IS THERE A FREE TRIAL CLASS?

Absolutely. We invite all prospective students to try their first class free at Valley Self-Defense. It's the best way to experience our training environment, meet our coaches, and see if BJJ is right for you. No experience or equipment needed — comfortable athletic clothing is fine.

DO I NEED ANY EXPERIENCE TO START?

No experience necessary! Valley Self-Defense welcomes complete beginners. Our instructors break down every technique step by step, and our community is known for being welcoming and patient with new students. Everyone starts as a white belt, and that's exactly where you should start too.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR TO MY FIRST CLASS?

For your first visit, comfortable athletic clothing works perfectly — a t-shirt and shorts or athletic pants. Once you commit to training regularly, you'll want to invest in a gi (kimono). Our coaches can recommend quality options at a range of price points.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TRAIN?

Most students at Valley Self-Defense train 2 to 3 times per week and see consistent progress. Showing up regularly matters far more than training intensely once in a while. We offer multiple class times throughout the week so you can find a schedule that fits your life.

DO YOU OFFER CLASSES FOR KIDS?

We primarily serve adult students. Please contact us directly to ask about availability for younger students — we're happy to point you in the right direction.