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Valley Self-Defense operates a full-spectrum self-defense training facility in Oak Park Heights, easily accessible from highways 36 and 94, right next to Victory Auto Clinic across from Stillwater High School. They offer everything from Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to firearms training and permit to carry certification—all grounded in trauma-informed instruction methods.
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Full description and what we offer
Valley Self-Defense operates a full-spectrum self-defense training facility in Oak Park Heights, easily accessible from highways 36 and 94, right next to Victory Auto Clinic across from Stillwater High School. They offer everything from Krav Maga and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to firearms training and permit to carry certification—all grounded in trauma-informed instruction methods.
Trauma-informed care is baked into their approach. All instructors have been trained by local trauma-informed educators to recognize and address traumatic responses. They understand that certain techniques can be empowering for some students and triggering for others, depending on individual healing journeys. Mental health matters here—there's no shame in emotional responses during training.
Their firearms instruction specifically addresses gun anxiety. If you're nervous around firearms, their IKMF-certified defensive shooting instructor works with you to build comfort and confidence before and during training.
| Program | Details |
|---|---|
| Krav Maga | Real-world self-defense system for all fitness levels. Emphasizes situational awareness, threat neutralization, and mental toughness. |
| Kids & Juniors Krav Maga | Ages 5+. Learn through games and fun activities. Covers bullying awareness, boundaries, consent, and practical defense techniques. |
| Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | Ground fighting and submission techniques (joint-locks, chokeholds). Classes available for kids and adults. |
| Karate | Welcoming program that accommodates all abilities, including students on the autism spectrum. |
| Women's Self-Defense | Specialized program for women learning practical self-defense. |
| LGBTQ+ Self-Defense | Dedicated classes for the LGBTQ+ community. |
| Adaptive Self-Defense | Programs designed for people with varying physical abilities and mobility needs. |
| Permit to Carry Certification | Minnesota-specific permit to carry training covering firearm safety, legal implications, conceal carry licensing. Hands-on training with laser trainers and dummy ammunition. Women-only sessions available. |
| Defensive Shooting | Instruction from one of the first IKMF-certified defensive shooting instructors in the United States. Covers shooting with movement, ground shooting, weapon retention, drawing from holster. Bring your own sidearm or use theirs. |
| Kettlebell Strength Training | Hardstyle kettlebell program for all fitness levels. Includes strength building (swings, snatches, Turkish get-ups), flexibility work, cardiovascular circuits, and proper technique instruction. |
| First Aid & CPR | Certification training. |
| Yoga | Complementary fitness programming. |
| Private Lessons | One-on-one instruction available in any discipline. Ideal for anxiety-prone students or those working through trauma. |
| Group & Corporate Seminars | Custom training for organizations. |
| Special Workshops | Free pepper spray/gel training, verbal de-escalation, tourniquet and bleeding control, and others throughout the year. |
Each session typically follows this structure:
1. Warm-up 2. Fitness component (squats, burpees, pushups, running) 3. Technique instruction 4. Drill training
All movements can be modified for your fitness level or physical limitations. Don't let the fitness component intimidate you—modifications are built in.
First class is always free. Sign up at their website or call (651) 877-8236 to schedule your trial.
Small group class sizes help you actually connect with other students. They organize frequent community events: holiday gatherings, blood drives, movie nights, Narcan training, virtual happy hours, and trunk-or-treat outings. This is built into their philosophy—they're a community gym, not just a training facility.
Who's welcome: Everyone. Regardless of age, gender identity, fitness level, mobility status, or past trauma. There is genuinely no judgment.
Frequency & Results: If you're consistent, results come fairly quickly—many students see noticeable changes in strength and confidence within 30 days. For muscle memory development (especially Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Karate), 2-3 times per week is ideal. But even 1 class per week produces results.
Contact: - Phone/Text: (651) 877-8236 - Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
What to Bring: - Clean gym shoes for the mats (or clean your street shoes) - Leave jewelry at home - Water is provided; sunscreen and electrolytes available in summer
Payment: All major credit/debit cards, personal checks, cash, Venmo
Registration: Required before class (helps instructors plan and allows them to contact you about cancellations). Use the PushPress app (iOS/Android) for members.
Proud member of the International Krav Maga Federation (IKMF). One of the first IKMF-certified defensive shooting instructors in the United States on staff.