Find a self defense classes in Minneapolis, MN

Find self defense classes in Minneapolis, MN

Find self defense classes in Minneapolis, MN

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
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Find self defense classes in Minneapolis, MN

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
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Top 10 self defense classes in Minneapolis, MN

Students agree: these teachers are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Shorin Ryu Karate

Shorin Ryu Karate

2 hires on Lessons.com
43+ years in business
Serves Minneapolis, MN
Practical self-defense. Physical, mental workout. We have small classes with personal training
Miguel Arroyo

Miguel Arroyo

Serves Minneapolis, MN
Welcome! I'm Miguel, a boxing coach at Champions Boxing Gym. My extensive experience and passion enable me to effectively train boxers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned competitors. I'm proud to have guided young athletes to national-level Silver Gloves achievements and regional Golden Gloves victories. Whether your goals include mastering boxing fundamentals, building self-confidence, developing self-defense skills, or achieving championship success, I am confident I can help you reach them.
Lil Dragons Kung Fu

Lil Dragons Kung Fu

7+ years in business
Serves Minneapolis, MN
Keep yourself or your childfit, focused, and having fun in our premier martial arts program for kids! Your child will quickly develop into a calm, cooperative, and confident person as he or she participates in Kung Fu classes that focus on skill development and creative movement. Curriculum consists of elements from traditional 5 animal kung fu as well as Wing Chun kung fu. Classes will be lead by Marcus Fard. Mr. Fard has 13 yrs experience training in the martial arts. His resume includes Shaolin Kung Fu, Karate, Aikijutsu, Kali with an 8+ focus on Wing Chun Kung Fu.
Dragons Kung Fu

Dragons Kung Fu

31+ years in business
Serves Minneapolis, MN
Welcome to Dragons Kung Fu in North St Paul, MN! Whether you're looking to master martial arts or get fit with personal training, we've got you covered. Our dedicated team of five skilled instructors is here to guide and inspire you on your journey. We focus on empowering our students to achieve their personal goals in a supportive and energizing environment. Join us and become part of our growing community where you can learn, train, and thrive. Let's get started on your path to strength and confidence!
Minnesota Star Martial Arts

Minnesota Star Martial Arts

6+ years in business
Serves Minneapolis, MN
Minnesota Star Martial Arts, Inc, founded in 2019 and located in Minneapolis, Minnesota, specializes in traditional and Olympic Taekwondo. They provide fitness and self-defense training for men, women, and children. Led by Master Franklin, who started his journey in martial arts in 1999, the institution has consistently helped students of all ages achieve their goals. Their approach combines traditional martial arts training with modern methodologies, making it a unique and effective program.
Akingsformula Boxing Fitness

Akingsformula Boxing Fitness

5.0Exceptional(5)
1 hire on Lessons.com
6+ years in business
Serves Minneapolis, MN & Online
Shaneeka W. says, "Andree has trained myself and my children, I’ve seen a shift in discipline in each of us. His training not other strengthens you physically but in all aspects, he’s truly building confidence, I’ve seen the most changes in my 16 year old son who was struggling in all areas before his training sessions with andree! I highly recommend!" Read more
Beast Boxing

Beast Boxing

Serves Minneapolis, MN
I’m a former amateur boxer & kickboxer who has a passion for teaching the sport, self defense, mental & physical strength along with training for fitness. I train & connect with all ages & all levels from kids, grandmas & competition athletes both amateur & pro.
Graves Martial Arts

Graves Martial Arts

28+ years in business
Serves Minneapolis, MN
We focus on combat practical use of martial arts.
School Of Shaolin Kung Fu

School Of Shaolin Kung Fu

Serves Minneapolis, MN
The School of Shaolin Kung Fu, located in Minnesota's Minneapolis and Coon Rapids areas, offers comprehensive martial arts training. They specialize in the traditional art of Northern Shaolin and Tai Chi Praying Mantis Kung Fu. Their method focuses on form-based martial arts systems, promoting self-discipline, awareness, and respect. Voss Electric Service, founded in 2007 and based in Ramsey, MN, offers a range of electrical services. Owner Michael Voss prides himself on delivering work on time and within budget.
Dojo Karate - Maple Grove

Dojo Karate - Maple Grove

Serves Minneapolis, MN
Dojo Karate - Maple Grove, located in Maple Grove, Minnesota, offers classes in westernized Korean Tae Kwon Do, or American Karate, to students of all ages. The school focuses on ensuring the success of each student through exercise, self-discipline, mutual respect, and positive reinforcement. The instructors at Dojo Karate are passionate about watching their students become lifelong martial arts participants and reaching their highest potential. They strive to create "champions in life" along with champions in Karate, fostering healthy lifestyles, self-confidence, motivation, and focus.

Your self defense questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.com.

How much are self-defense classes?

Self-defense classes cost $150 to $400 on average for a 6- to 10-week program at a martial arts studio or dedicated self-defense school. Classes held at community centers typically cost less than those offered by professional marital arts studios, and some local police departments and offer free classes.

Some martial arts studios offer single-session self-defense classes for $30 to $80 each, depending on the studio, class size, length, and location. Most one-time classes last 2 to 3 hours.

Are self-defense classes worth it?

Self-defense classes are worth it for individuals who want to be prepared for a life-threatening situation. A self-defense class teaches you how to recognize and avoid dangerous situations, and how to survive situations that can't be avoided. Many people consider the added peace of mind worth the investment.

Self-defense training can be especially helpful if you find yourself in any of these common circumstances:

  • Walking alone at night
  • Jogging in a secluded area, such as a wooded park or trail
  • In a crowded bar or club where alcohol is served
  • During a home invasion

Are self-defense classes effective, and what are the benefits?

Self-defense classes are an effective way to learn how to avoid dangerous confrontations and how to deescalate or escape the confrontations you can't avoid.

Self-defense classes provide a wide range of benefits:

  • Builds your confidence
  • Improves your physical fitness
  • Increases your awareness of your surroundings
  • Improves your balance
  • Provides a sense of personal empowerment

In addition to teaching you how to defend yourself against a human attacker, self-defense training can also be useful when defending yourself from an animal attack.

What do self-defense classes teach?

Self-defense classes teach you these skills to defend yourself from an attacker:

  • Situational awareness and how to detect danger where you might not expect it
  • Verbal skills to prevent or deescalate a confrontation
  • Strikes, including punches, kicks, knees, and elbows
  • How to avoid being dragged to the ground
  • Grappling techniques that are useful if you find yourself on the ground
  • How to defend yourself with improvised weapons or objects in your environment

During a self-defense class, you will practice physical skills alone and with a partner. Practicing with a partner provides a sense of what real physical contact with an attacker may feel like.

Many self-defense schools teach Krav Maga. Developed by the Israeli Defense Forces, Krav Maga remains one of the most popular defense systems among military personnel and law enforcement agencies.

What to wear to self-defense classes?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely, such as a T-shirt or tank top and leggings, yoga pants, sweatpants, or shorts. Opt for breathable moisture-wicking fabric to minimize sweating.

Where to take self-defense classes near me?

Follow these tips to find the best self-defense classes near you:

  • Decide whether you want to attend women-only classes or co-ed classes.
  • Compare costs from at least three local schools or martial arts studios.
  • Read school and studio reviews on Lessons and Google.
  • Avoid schools that include pre-rehearsed self-defense demos, as these demos typically don't reflect real-world circumstances or outcomes.
  • Visit the class location to confirm it's well-maintained and the staff is professional.
  • Ask about special offers for new students. Some schools offer a free trial class.
  • Take one class to ensure the studio is a good fit for you before enrolling in a multi-week or ongoing program.
  • Get a copy of the membership contract in writing before making a payment.

What questions should I ask self-defense teachers?

Before signing up for a self-defense class, ask the instructor these important questions:

  • How much do your classes cost?
  • Do you require a membership contract, and if so, what does it entail?
  • What is your class schedule?
  • Do you offer any specials for new students?
  • How many people are in a typical class?
  • Are your classes women-only or co-ed?
  • How long does a class last?
  • What should I wear to the class?

Reviews for Minneapolis self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the Minneapolis area.
Broderick W.
Working with AKingsFormula Boxing Fitness has been a game-changer. The energy, the discipline, and the personalized attention you get is unmatched. Every session pushes you to your limit while building real confidence, not just in the ring but in life. The coaching is next-level—focused, motivating, and rooted in real experience. It’s more than just boxing; it’s a mindset shift. If you’re looking to grow mentally and physically while learning the art of boxing the right way, this is where you need to be.
Akingsformula boxing fitness
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