Alliance Jiu-Jitsu — Local services in Edina

This place is phenomenal. I was looking for a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school in the Twin Cities-- when I came and tried the first class here, I knew immediately this was the place. I signed up for a year on the spot. The instructors are fantastic, and they remember EACH of the students, and always help you along-- but never baby you. They will let you struggle a little, so you can feel the wrong way to do things, and figure some things out for yourself, but they will always help you, especially if you ask. They break things down in logical ways, and are happy to take as much time as you need to explain or show you things if you have questions. The school is very welcoming, and it feels like a second family. It took me a bit to fall into my outgoing self and start being chatty with people, but everyone is VERY friendly and supportive and encouraging, even if they hardly know you yet. People saw me showing up earlier on and started to tell me, genuinely, that it was good to see me. People will always come introduce themselves if they don't know you. We call ourselves a team, and that's definitely the mentality here. I'm so, so happy I found this place.

The class schedule accommodates morning, evening, and mid-day students all, so you'll probably be able to find classes to attend for any level (the fundamental/basic classes are great no matter how high a belt you are). They tend to run anywhere from one to two hours. There are also open mat times, which, after a certain point as a beginner, are INVALUABLE to putting everything together and into practice. Don't skip these after a few months of classes.

I can't personally speak to the Crossfit side of the gym as I don't do it, but I know you can get a super cheap membership if you already do BJJ and want to add Crossfit. It's very popular and I always see tons of people doing it (but it's not overcrowded, since the gym is pretty large). I do know the instructors for BJJ also teach Crossfit (are certified etc.), and if they teach/run Crossfit like they do BJJ, they'll be just as awesome there.

Since a lot of people ask me personally: from what I have seen, the prices are on par with other similar martial arts schools or better. They have multiple types of plans for most budgets, and discounts for cops, students, etc.

I can't possibly recommend this...

I have been a member of Alliance Jiu-Jitsu MN for nearly 5 1/2 years and I am proud to be part of the school family and represent the team. At Alliance Jiu-Jitsu MN, they believe that Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art for everyone. The instructors do a great job of welcoming you into the family and teaching you the proper techniques regardless of your background or experience level. The Alliance Jiu-Jitsu system is a tried and true formula for developing high level Jiu-Jitsu in individuals. Beginner, intermediate and advance classes, as well as private lessons and seminars are offered on the schedule. There are children as young as 4 years old learning self defense and having fun, adults in their late 60s refining their technique and athletes in their 20s preparing for world class competitions at this school. While the classes are always informative and challenging, the level of encouragement and support from instructors and classmates is outstanding. Someone will always be there to offer a helping hand, or a word of advice. If you're looking for a school that exemplifies Jiu-Jitsu in a friendly, respectful and supportive atmosphere, I would drop in and try a class. ...

I was searching for a new Jiu Jitsu home after I left Duluth. I wanted to make sure I ended up somewhere where the instructors really cared about the students; their well being, growth, and progress. I didn't want to belong to a gym that only focused on the number of students. After one phone conversation with Damian Hirtz, and one visit to Alliance MN, I had found my new home.

I have now been a member of this school for 2 years, and it's definitely in a class of its own in the Twin Cities. Damian provides classes that fits students of all levels. His step by step instructions during class are very detailed, and he makes it easy for students to understand the different techniques.

I couldn't be happier to be a member of this school. Team Alliance is the best team in the world right now with 5 consecutive WORLD Championships. Damian has also held some of the best seminars with the likes of Fabio Gurgel, Lucas Lepri, Gabriel Goulart, and Bernardo Faria.

If you're still not convinced, come check it out and see...