Burnsville Martial Arts Academy

11921 Portland Ave, Burnsville, MN 55337, USA

4.9 (82 reviews)

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Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Burnsville Martial Arts Academy. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.

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Nikhil Athmaram

Amazing gym!! Cross training here for the short time I am here during break, and coaches Gus and Nakita immediately welcomed me. Whether you are a hobbyist or competitor they have classes and training for all levels. Would highly recommend checking it out if you are in town!!!!
Posted 9 months ago
Fix It I am

In Minnesota for work and stopped by this gym for a few days. It’s always very intimidating for me go into different gyms when I travel for work but the Gus (owner) ,coaches and fighters were very friendly. If you’re a beginner or an experienced combat enthusiast this is a great gym to go to. I’ve been to many gyms and Burnsville martial arts check off all the boxes. Competent coaches , active fighters , large variety of training partners that respect each other and sanitary mats. I will definitely come back to this gym !
Posted 1 year ago
Jonas Petrie

The best place to train, and the best people to do it with! Whether you're thinking about starting a martial art or have been training for your whole life, BMAA is built for you. Coaches Gus, Nakita, and Matt have made BMAA a welcoming environment for everyone. I've built friendships here that I will have for the rest of my life. The diverse community of people who train at BMAA will welcome you with open arms. Coaches Matt, Gus, and Nakita will answer any questions you have, and each brings their own unique perspective and style to the martial arts. They genuinely care for everyone who walks through their doors. They make everyone leave feeling better than they came in. They will support you no matter what your goals are, from fighting professionally to getting in shape, and everything in between. If you're looking for a place to train that will welcome you at your skill level and support you in achieving your goals, somewhere where you can build lasting relationships, and somewhere you'll look forward to training at, BMAA is the place for you!
Posted 1 year ago
Dan Moret

Burnsville Martial Arts Academy is a great place to train for anyone from beginner to advanced. The structure of the classes is top notch and progresses in a manner conducive to learning and retaining skills. The coaches are great and really care about the students. The facility is state of the art and very clean. They have a wonderful community and the atmosphere is amazing.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Beerbaron9483

Gus and Nakita truly care about their gym and their members. If you live near this gym you are lucky! Best facility around, you have to see it in person. They offer all types of classes morning and evenings. They have a strong kids program!

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Posted 1 year ago
Academy Plymouth

Gus, Nakita, Matt, and all the instructors are high class and friendly. One of the best facilities I’ve been to. Their kids program is great too.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Kirstan Ketter-Mendiola

Amazing, compassionate, skilled, well-organized coaches! Good role-models for my kid and a healthy place for him to learn and grow.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Dillon Boen

Phenomenal culture, hospitality, and clean training space. As a visiting Bjj Brown Belt I've come to appreciate training spaces like Burnsville Martial Arts Academy. Great place to train regardless of experience

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Morgan Jacobs

What a martial arts academy! If the windows and view alone weren't worth the membership, I can certainly say that the space is also incredible with a perfect layout for martial arts classes. As for the owners and head coaches, I'm biased - I trained under Gus when I started martial arts in Mankato but he was the all-around best of several back then and it appears to be no different for his wife, Nakita, who taught the Muay Thai class that my girlfriend and I attended the other day (my girlfriend loved learning from a nice young lady and said it took away her nerves about taking a martial arts class.) Also, I'm pulling the trigger on their six-month commitment.

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Posted 1 year ago
Whitney Nguyen

I bring my littles here and they love it! Coach Matt, Gus, and Nikita are great! They have grown so much since we started with them in 2022. It’s been pretty awesome to witness and see the kids progress as well. They have kid friendly and adult events every so often.

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Posted 2 years ago
David Rinn

Clean, relaxed atmosphere to learn Muy Thai and Jiu-Jitsu. Coaches Gus, Nikita and Matt expect you to work hard but they make it fun too. I've trained other places, but this has been my favorite environment. Recommended for anyone whether you have prior training or not. New location is great with so much more space. They have also added several classes.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Ryan Neary

I have had my son enrolled at BMAA for a good year and a half. Since that time, he has learned a lot of useful skills, gained a lot of self confidence, respect and listening skills. He made friends along the way (even some birthday parties outside of BMAA) and had something to look forward to outside of school to get exercise. As a parent, it was easily one of the best recent decisions I've made for my son. For parents who may be interested in some classes themselves, they offer a beginner level Muay Thai class that runs the same length as the kids class two days a week (as of this writing) which was pretty incredible when I was able to go. I am sad to say we have to take a break from BMAA to pursue other things, but I hope to be back one day. The staff are all friendly, helpful, and eager to share their knowledge.

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Posted 2 years ago
Dustin Jerome

10/10 would get kicked in the head again. Seriously though, this place is great. Gus and Nikita are very involved and active. You'll learn a ton and get a great workout along with it.

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Posted 2 years ago
Shanna Carl

This place is amazing. The coaches care about their students and it shows in so many ways: the curriculum and class structure, the welcoming environment, the feedback for growth, the sense of community. Regardless of why someone chooses to get into martial arts (to fight competitively, to learn to protect yourself, to get a good workout, etc), I would 100% recommend this gym.

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Posted 2 years ago
Daniel Brown

I have been doing martial arts for 18 years and this school has been a rock solid foundation for teaching me jiu jitsu. Gus and Nakita have been an absolutely dynamite combo and have such a great passion for teaching. I recommend this place 💯. Also coach Matt is pretty dope too. Dr. Dan

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Posted 2 years ago
Tommy Nguyen

Coaches Gus-Nakita and Matt are amazing, kind people who have passion for teaching Kungfu, also have very nice -clean- rooming martial art gym.

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Posted 2 years ago
Shae Doherty

This gym has a great community and legit training and personally has changed my life for the better I highly recommend any one from novice to experienced to step in and join the gym.

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Posted 2 years ago
Angel Salazar

Great Gym! My second gym for activity fighting and competing! Coaches are great and truly care for your growth! I’ve loved every moment in this gym! Great gym for if you want to learn basic self defense, competitively fight, or even get into great shape! 100% recommend this gym!

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Posted 2 years ago
Ibrahim Dahir

This gym changed my life. I came in straight out of high school looking to start a career in fighting and I gained that and much more. I made life long friendships with likeminded people who love martial arts and fighting just as much as I do. This gym has the best community out of any gym I’ve been to. The coaches and staff are exceptional! I gained so much confidence and happiness from when I started two years ago.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Suhayb Mahamed

Good coaches, nice facility, and very kind community. Plenty of things to train in as well.

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Posted 2 years ago
Caroline L

Burnsville Martial Arts Academy is a rare gem. Coaches Gus and Nakita make huge, consistent, and fruitful efforts to foster an empowering, positive, and supportive community, and it shows. There is no favoritism among students or members, nor are there social cliques among those who deem themselves the elite class. All are welcome. Each class is engaging, challenging, and educational, and the facility is large, clean, and well maintained. Training here is an amazing experience and honor.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
William Hines

BMAA has been a big win for our family of four, our journey starting 10 months ago. Our daughters (ages 7 and 10) take kids classes for Muay Thai and Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu, and my wife and I take those classes for adults. The coaches and the other students are so positive whether you're an out of shape beginner (like I was), or an elite athlete, and every skill level in between. The coaches/owners have done an incredible job of creating a positive community that pushes each other forward. I was surprised by how kind and encouraging the people are in what I thought was such a violent sport! As a 40-year-old with back issues, I'm also surprised at my own physical progress and how much FUN I'm having! A note for parents: We visited several other martial arts schools in the area before landing on this one. We are VERY pleased with our decision as we have seen so much growth in our daughters' skill level and their character. It's been one of the best investments we've ever made in our kids (and in ourselves).

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Posted 2 years ago
Nate Weber

I’ve been training with Gus and Nakita for about 9 months. When I first stepped in the gym, everyone was very welcoming and have been super supportive in my training ever since. No matter what your goals are with Muay Thai, BJJ, MMA or Kali, this gym has a place for you.

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Posted 2 years ago
Ingrid M. Dirtzu

Literally cannot say enough good things about this place. Gus and Nakita are incredible coaches and lifelong martial artists that just get it. They've built an uplifting culture where everyone can learn - whatever your background or concerns you might have, there is space for you to be challenged at your level and to grow on the martial arts path at BMAA. Culture above everything, but there's no compromise between culture and quality here (one feeds the other!). If you're a serious practitioner, you'll find tons of knowledge and some deep waters to swim in as well, whatever art you practice. We are so fortunate to have a gym in the south metro that's so healthy and vibrant, and so rich in knowledge and passion for the martial arts!

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Posted 2 years ago
Rayeed Ibtesam

Amazing coaches and great environment! Wonderful place to train.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Kain A

If you are looking for the best place to train look no further. I have been training here for over a year and I am thoroughly satisfied by the instruction and attention I get. Gus and Nakita are the best and they pour their heart and soul into the school. Coach Matt is chill and a great teacher. The community they have created is one of mutual respect and understanding. This is a place where you can train as light or as hard as you wish and know that you are in a safe space to do so. 6 out of 5 stars.

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Posted 2 years ago
Geo FaFa

Clean gym, knowledgeable coaches, great atmosphere, and a safe environment.

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Posted 3 years ago
Caleb Boswell

Great gym offering a variety of martial art classes with top notch Muay Thai. Coach Gus, Coach Nakita and many others are very knowledgeable and fun to work with. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience this is a great place to be.

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Posted 3 years ago
Ryan Lowe

This is a great gym. Gus and Nakita were very welcoming and are excellent coaches to gain knowledge from!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Lauren Landry

I have been training at Burnsville Academy for 2 years and have studied martial arts with Coach Nakita for more than a decade. I have never met martial arts gym owners more invested in the development and safety of all of their members. They are passionate about martial arts and how it has had a lasting and positive impact on their lives and want to share that with everyone that is interested. If you want to be at a school where you will learn effective technique as well as join an amazing community of martial artists that truly support each other, this is the place for you!

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Posted 3 years ago
Ibrahim Dahir

This place is amazing! If you’re an aspiring young fighter or you just want to get fit and have a blast doing it this is the place for you! The coaches are outstanding and the everyone is super friendly. The vibes at this gym are like no other.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Fernando Panales

The best martial arts gym in the South Metro with top-notch coaches You will not find other coaches like Gus and Nakita with tons of knowledge, professionalism, and passion for martial arts.The new facility is amazing and clean. Walking into a gym can be intimidating, but not at BMAA; everyone here is very welcoming.Whether you’re looking to compete or begin your fitness journey, this is the right place for you.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Ryan Howley

The community that Gus, Nakita and Matt have created in their gym sets this place apart. I work with my hands for a living, so getting hurt is not an option. The instructors make it a priority to make sure everyone is staying safe and performing the moves correctly so both you and your training partner don't get hurt. They are constantly walking around and providing helpful insight, technique corrections and instruction to make sure everyone is completing the exercise correctly and effectively. Their commitment to excellence is mirrored by the students that attend this gym. I have been training for 6 months and have yet to run into a more advanced student who wouldn't go out of their way to teach me about something I didn't understand or show me how to do something better. They are obviously passionate about what they do,

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Posted 3 years ago
Jessebeats84

Addicted to the Muay Thai program and the coaches. Would definitely recommend!

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Posted 3 years ago
Shannon Rose Farrell-Jackson

The new space is a dream for anyone looking for Muay Thai, BJJ, Kali or MMA training! It is the perfect mix of families, fighters, hobbyists and lifers! You’ve got to check it out! Coach Nakita and Gus bring a lifetime of knowledge that can’t be matched in this area!

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Posted 3 years ago
Joseph Seidl

By far The best martial arts gym I have trained at. Gus and Nakita are the most welcoming and friendly coaches you could ask for. I plan on bringing my son here when he is old enough to do jiu jitsu, because there is no other place that I feel I need to go to continue my martial arts journey. I suggest anybody who is reading the reviews to check it out at least once. They will win you over. (They just moved to a new gym aswell, and it is HUGE)

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Posted 3 years ago
Spencer Pirie

Friendly and knowledgeable instructors and the people currently training there are super nice and helpful to new students. Highly recommend!

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Posted 3 years ago
Ridge Raddatz

Great place to train as an out-of-towner! Friendly staff, nice facility, and an engaging class.

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Posted 3 years ago
Sam Traxler

I recently dropped in at the Academy for the BJJ class and I have nothing but good things to say. - Technical instruction - Competitive but friendly atmosphere - Drop in friendly - Clean facility Shout out to Matt for helping set up my friend who did not have a gi.

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Posted 3 years ago
Iresha Anderson

This place is amazing! I joined the gym with zero experience in martial arts. The two coaches (Gus and Nakita) are really supportive and patient. They love what they are doing and they genuinely care about their students. If you are thinking about joining a martial arts gym that will accept you no matter your skill level this is the place to be!!

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Posted 4 years ago
Hamdi Kosar

This is my second martial arts school, and I had a lot of concerns about how I can practice while upholding my religious values. Since the very beginning, coach Nakita and Gus have been really accommodating and friendly with me. I felt like I could practice martial arts here and be myself. It's been 6 months, and I can't imagine finding a better environment to train. I am a Muslim woman and I only train with women both of the coaches worked hard with me to make that possible. The students are also the kindest and most welcoming people I met. We work hard and we play hard!!!!

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Posted 4 years ago
Joe Watson

A incredible place with fantastic teachers. Cannot recommend enough.

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Posted 4 years ago
Mike Olson

Gus is one of the best coaches I know. He not only motivates but has a great passion in martial arts and commits to students. He has been the most diligent in helping me in my Muay Thai goals. Always encouraging and sacrificing his time. Gus cornered my fights, dedicated lesson time, and graced me with the WTBA test. I promise you that if you get involved with Nakita and Gus, and you as a student pursue your martial arts goals with vigor they will see you through. This is the place to go. Khob Khun Krub Ajarn Kratzke.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
mark delay

I had a great time training in Burnsville with Gus and Nakita. My gym was undergoing a remodel and we needed to temporarily relocate until it was finished. Everyone at the Burnsville Martial Arts Academy was more than welcoming. While there I had a chance to try out some Muay Thai classes which was new for me. If you are in the area and looking to learn either Jiu Jitsu or Muay Thai, I would highly recommend stopping in taking a class from either Gus or Nakita. Thanks so much for having me, it was a pleasure.

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Posted 4 years ago
leonardo Guiracocha

Amazing gym, both coaches are incredibly knowledgeable and some of the nicest people i've met. I have learned so much in just a few months, great gym overall!!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Kip Holscher

I had the opportunity to train at this gym when I was recently in town visiting family. Top notch place, great trainers and coaches, and wonderful, friendly students. This is a very new gym, less than a year old, but with what they have going for them, they will continue grow and be around for a very long time. I look forward to visiting when I am in the area in the future. Thanks Coaches Gus and Matt for the warm welcome.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Russell Obernolte

Trained here while traveling for work. Great gym and great people

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Elise White

Gus and Nakita are great coaches! They are very supportive. I had no background in martial arts and they make training fun and informing. The Academy is a positive, safe, and friendly environment. Would recommend for any skill level!

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Posted 4 years ago
christopher klavetter

Being involved in a complicated game like Jiu Jitsu keeps me compelled and my desire to understand more has led to my entire life moving in a better direction. I have a reason to drink water instead of soda or beer, I have a reason get better sleep, accountability and all that comes with it. On top of all that the Kratzke’s help guide this journey in a way that feels like how a caring family would help you along.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Joel Craton

Awesome place to train! Gus is a great instructor, and I look forward to coming back.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Nicholas Lunsford

While travelling, I had the opportunity to drop in for a BJJ class. The facility was large and clean, and I was impressed by the professionalism and expertise of the instructor, Gus. I felt very welcomed and would not hesitate to train there regularly if I lived in the area.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Darrin Homme

I heard good things about this gym so I stopped in for a visit today and I was not disappointed. The owners, Nakita and Gus, were very friendly and welcoming when I walked in the door. The entire facility was neat, clean, and very comfortable. I had a great time training and look forward to coming back in the future.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Dan Manosack

Safe and friendly environment for all levels of martial arts. Super clean facility and lots of mat space. Owners are incredibly welcoming. Worth checking out!

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Jayson Camacho

Great place to train! Perfect atmosphere to get better at martial arts and have a supportive community right behind you. 11 out of 10 definitely would recommend.

Facility Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Mike Ahearn

Coach Gus and Nakita are very welcoming and knowledgeable instructors. Every class I take, I get a great workout, learn new skills and have a lot of fun doing it. The gym has a great vibe and setup. So glad I started training here.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Gregory Schwalje

Awesome school! Both owners/coaches are really friendly and welcoming. The instruction is great as well. I have enjoyed how they break moves down and also provide context. Facilities are well maintained. If you are an experienced martial artist or new I would def recommend this school

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Posted 5 years ago
BJ Vang

Great instructors and the place is welcoming.

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Posted 5 years ago
Shanka Shanka

My kids attend here coach Gus and coach Nakita are both amazing, friendly and welcoming. My daughter had coach Gus for a while now and learned so much. Very clean and great environment to bring your kids or your self. whether you are a beginner or not I highly recommend.

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Posted 5 years ago
Aaron Miller

Super friendly and inviting environment. Knowledgeable instructors with a heart for teaching. I'd highly recommend to anyone in the area with the slightest interest!

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Posted 5 years ago
Tom Seidel

Very nice, open and clean gym with beautiful mats. Gus is a fantastic guy. Highly recommended!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Kinnell

A positive and welcoming environment to help you get introduced or further your skill in Muay Thai, Jiu Jitsu and Kali. The coaches are supportive, approach you well based on your level of skill and the students are superb at helping each other all get better in skill and endurance

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Posted 5 years ago
Shona Mackenzie

Great classes today with Coach Gus and Coach Nakita!

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Posted 5 years ago
Graham Christopherson

Between the experience of Nakita and Gus, you won’t find a better gym in the Burnsville area!

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Posted 5 years ago
Emily Anne Anderson

If you're looking for an inviting environment with amazing coaches and training partners, then this is your place. Coach Gus and Nakita really are the best. This place is fun, motivational and a good workout. Oh, and you get to punch and choke people....in a safe and controlled environment of course.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Justin Wathanaphone

Both head instructors (Justin and Nakita) are very knowledgeable, patient and capable of teaching. I have known Coach Justin for about a year and he has been one of the best instructors I have ever had! The facility is brand new. It is very clan and sanitary. Whether you are a fighter looking to up your game or someone who just wants to get in shape; this place can definitely help you. Highly recommended!

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Posted 5 years ago
Scott Hulsebus

Clean gym, good location, very knowledgeable and welcoming coaches, low pressure to learn at your own pace! Overall great experience and quality of gym!!

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Posted 5 years ago
Coach Ray

The instructors are experienced and the environment is fun! I always enjoy training with them. Can't wait to see the new gym!

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Edward Norton

Crooks! They only care about money, they don't care about your child. They were more concerned about themselves than teaching the kids anything. Oh and don't think that even if you paid the full amount instead of the month to month that they won't try and rob you if you discontinue the program without a written letter. They will never contact you until they want your money.

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Posted 3 years ago