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Minnesota Kali Group
4532 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407, United States
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Jo
Review №1

Listen, if you want to be a part of an outstanding group who loves training, truth, and good times….you need to check out the world-famous Minnesota Kali Group.I believe Rick Faye is one of the premier martial arts instructors of our time. His instruction is always insightful, relevant….and fun! I’ve been a student and fan of his since the late 1980s.Do yourself a favor…go jump in a class. You’ll have a ball, meet great people, and your horizons will expand. You won’t regret it.

Ad
Review №2

There is much about the Minnesota Kali Group that I find makes them stand out amongst other martial arts schools in the Twin Cities.I think two major components of this are: The wide variety of martial arts classes that they offer, and that they are second-to-none in terms of the vast network of talented people that they have connections with. Whether those are in-house staff, teachers that have branched out and started their own schools, or the student body itself. What I also love about the student body is the variety and diversity of it. We have everything from teenagers, to people in their elder years. Beginners, to experts. And a wide range of ethnicities.In addition to the in-house talent, they also hold specialty workshops on a regular basis where people can have the opportunity to learn from great masters of the craft. For instance, Guru Dan Inosanto, Who worked directly with Bruce Lee, has been a regular visitor to the Minnesota Kali Group for several years now. He, amongst many others, are the caliber of dedicated martial artist that frequent the school.I am thoroughly fulfilled at being a member of the Minnesota Kali Group and look forward to my own growth and development as a student.

Ma
Review №3

Me: a student of about two years on all sides of the pandemic.A wide variety of martial arts, several skilled teachers, and a well-supplied facility make this an excellent choice for your martial arts education.The unlimited membership is the best deal if you intend to attend at least 3 classes a week, currently $150 monthly. There is a 6 class-a-month option for those looking to save money, at $90 monthly. There are also family options (the best deal for folks in the same household) and private training packages if you want direct tutelage.

Ch
Review №4

The best martial arts gym in the Twin Cities for people with all levels of conditioning and skill. You would think it would be difficult to find a place where people with literally decades of training could work out next to people just starting out, but MKG pulls it off. Theres a supportive culture for anyone who shows up ready to work - and you will work out very hard. Be ready to sweat.

J
Review №5

Super friendly group, 1st class is free!

Su
Review №6

A wonderful gym, very fun atmosphere. I really enjoyed the Jeet kune do class!

Ra
Review №7

MKG is my most favorite place to be! So welcoming and friendly, but most of all FUN! Very welcoming and inclusive! The instructors meet you where you are at. No matter what your experience level is, you will definitely learn great skills, get the workout you desire -at the intensity you desire - and have a blast doing it. I am not generally comfortable at most gyms, but MKG feels like home. It is an honor to train with such skilled and experienced instructors. Highly recommended!!

Ro
Review №8

MKG is an awesome training center!The staff is welcoming and eager to pass on their expertise in a variety of martial arts. All levels of skill, from beginner to advanced, are guided personally and respectfully.I had the best workout ever; bringing me to right to the edge of my limits, not with a screaming fanatic in front with a loudspeaker, but with a motivating atmosphere that drew the best out of me.You need to go to MKG!

pe
Review №9

The world renowned Minnesota Kali Group is the gold standard in the martial arts today. Its core curriculum, training methods and friendly approach from the top down have a proven track record of producing top notch martial artists globally. Sifu Rick Faye’s knowledge base is second to none. I have been studying under this very talented individual for over 30 years and I am proud to call him my Sifu. Regardless of your skill level, you will find its training fun and effective.

Jo
Review №10

Minnesota Kali Group in Minneapolis is my home away from home!If you are looking for world class martial arts instruction with a home town feel. Visit Guro Rick Faye and the gang at MKG Minneapolis.

Br
Review №11

Coming to MKG the first time was one of those moments when you step into a new place and know that youre in the right spot. My fiancée and I were looking for a place to grow and learn and had a few places to visit on our list. We came to MKG first and that was the last one we had a trial at.The teachers are kind, patient, and knowledgeable to all levels of attendees from a variety of walks of life. They do not discriminate against anyone who wants to join regardless of sex, gender, experience, or anything else.Truly a hidden gem. Couldnt recommend more.

Za
Review №12

Originally from Thunder Bay, we were pretty close to begin with and were very lucky to be so. Having attended the first ever Wisconsin Camp in Aug 1990, I saw the origins of Sifu Ricks subsequent camps as he instructed hundreds of joyous hours himself.In attendance were many greats; RIP Larry Hartsell, RIP Terry Gibson, RIP Bert Poe, RIP Pendekar Paul Dethouars, (nearly RIP Greg Nelson, the fightingest fighter around), Burton Richardson and of course Dan Inosanto and Chai SIrisute.I was also witness to one of Chais Thai Tests!Having been to several over the years and attending the club numerous times, this is the best school Ive ever attended. Friendly, welcoming atmosphere for everyone, gentle good humour and the most amazing instruction and programs for any level.All the best!

Ra
Review №13

They are the finest in Martial Arts. Theres no better place to learn, train or have some fun with some really interesting and good people. If you want to train Kali, Jun Fan, Panantukan, Silat, Muay Thai or Grappling Arts, this is your place.

Ty
Review №14

Ive trained in a lot of schools. This one is definitely my favorite, and kind of second home for me. Theres a ton of space, and all the equipment you need.

Sc
Review №15

This is a great place to get your body moving. It doesnt matter what condition you thing of yourself, the classes will work for you. Even my 8 year old daughter loves going here, the trainers are fun to work with. You do not need to spend an exorbitant amount of money to get a training outfit.

Ti
Review №16

Good hands on traning

Ja
Review №17

One of my favorite places in the world. Ive missed MKG terribly during this pandemic and it was great to be back. If you are looking into training martial arts, this is your place.

ke
Review №18

Best martial arts gym in the city! Especially if you are interested in Jeet Kune do!

Ri
Review №19

This place is nothing short of being a phenomenal experience in my opinion..as a student and practitioner myself I have no words describe the atmosphere and humility of this environment . It has been and forever be an impact on my life as it has from day one..great and knowledgeable instructors.. great training and awesome consistency.. for anyone that has an interest as a serious martial artist and has an open mind and willing to open and explore these avenues of martial arts and its concepts.. definitely my choice would be MKG ..it would be my only choice..train hard and have fun!

am
Review №20

I have been a part of an affiliate school in Cambridge MN and have come to the Kali Group for camp and other seminars. I have so much fun learning and training with people from all over the world. The instructors here are outstanding and I honor all the work that they put in to reach their level.

Na
Review №21

They offer a great variety of arts with well experienced instructors. it is a great place to learn. Everyone is very humble and willing to work with you.

po
Review №22

IMO Kali Group is one of the best run gyms in the Twin Cities metro area. There are classes for anyones schedule and fitness level. There is a place for high-level athletes as well as beginners. It has a good balance of fitness classes and technique classes. And The Kali Group has been promoting Bruce Lees philosophy of mixing different martial arts styles into something uniquely your own since long before Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) had become a well-known, popular sport.My only critique is that that the space, itself, is pretty run down from use. Some people might love that aesthetic because it does have a genuine old-school feel to it. However, I think that theres a bit of a mismatch between that hardcore aesthetic and the all-are-welcome atmosphere. Overall great gym, though.

Pe
Review №23

You wont find a more inclusive and varied Martial Arts studio in the Midwest. Nor will you find more knowledgeable instruction. Rick Fey is at the top of the Martial Arts game. Always a great place to train.

Co
Review №24

It’s not just a fine way for people of all skill levels to learn martial arts. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to have a great workout and meet new friends. MKG is a school where you will feel genuinely welcomed as soon as you walk in the door. It’s addictive!

Da
Review №25

The concepts available in this type of curriculum are as far as I can tell impossible to get anywhere else. Its been great for my body composition and has made me have better energy in general and improved my flexibility, speed, strength, and skill. Once you begin to understand the interrelatedness of all things in MMA it increases your appreciation for the necessity of cross-disciplinary training.

Lu
Review №26

Best martial arts in Minneapolis for self defense. Thanks!

Je
Review №27

A few years ago I was looking for a martial art that would increase my self confidence and my coordination. MN Kali is not your ordinary martial art school or gym. I love that I train with beginner and advanced levels to continue to hone the fundamentals. Egos are left at the door. Friendliness runs rampant. I am leaps and bounds stronger mentally and physically. MN Kali has become another family for me and I can’t imagine going anywhere else.

La
Review №28

Talented martial arts instructors in various disciplines, a clean facility with lots of space to work out in groups or individually, and a wide assortment of classes for all skill levels. I highly recommend this gym.

be
Review №29

Open and welcoming facility!! I attended the Phase 1 class and really enjoyed the workout my mind and body got! Its slightly daunting as a newbie, because you learn on the fly, you arent with a group of other newbs. But the other folks who have done it before are so helpful and ready to slow things down and show you what to do. Highly recommend!

Ta
Review №30

This is not an ordinary martial arts gym. If you want to get fit, learn martial arts and build community, this is the place you want to be. They have dedicated staff that makes MKG feel more like home than going to a gym.

Ha
Review №31

A great experience with highly trained professionals. I absolutely recommend MKG especially if you are an actor who admire action roles.

ch
Review №32

Great staff and facility, the training here is top notch! Loved it since the day I came in for the free intro class and Ive been addicted ever since.

Ku
Review №33

Started with phase one - so got a taste of everything, Kali, this boxing, JKD, panantukan. Then focused on Thai Boxing for the hour test. Now pretty much focused on Kali. I am pushing 60, and it is easy on my arthritic joints ( :) ). It is great to have a school with so many fascinating martial arts offerings that can be tailored to your changing individual attributes. And the body of online course work recorded during the pandemic is a treasure-trove of information- from all over the world. I still need to check out the class on fighting with shovels!

Am
Review №34

The best martial arts club I have ever attended. Safe, fun, and friendly environment that is very welcoming to new members!

Sh
Review №35

This gym/school is a hidden gem of the martial arts world with world class instructors known world wide and fortunalty for Minnesotans located smack dab in our back yard. Everyone from instructors to students are some of the nicest, most helpful and hospitable people I have ever met. Truly a family! Students of all walks of life, variety of skill levels who never hesitate to help and welcome everyone! The wide variety of arts from high impact to very low impact suitable for EVERYONE no matter the shape you are in. Let this school be the first step to better health both mind and body to improve your quality of life. I can not say enough about how great of school MKG is!

Co
Review №36

MKG is great. They have classes for a wide variety of skill levels in a wide variety of martial arts. I cant recommend them enough.

Pa
Review №37

Like a lot of members, I wish I lived at MKG.Unfortunately, the instructors constantly remind you that if you aren’t working out or practicing your art to get out of Rick’s gym.Probably for the best they don’t have a café or dorm but five stars all the same.

Wi
Review №38

Rick Faye is World Class, His knowledge of the Martial Arts has not only given me a perspective of the history and techniques beyond my imagination but I feel more confident about myself and my overall physical conditioning and health, Hands down the best training and instructor ship I have personally ever had, Thank you Rick Faye and the MKG group- William Johannes

Ro
Review №39

The friendliest fighters.

Ev
Review №40

Im new to martial arts yet the people here are always very helpful and have a lot of patience. There are a lot of members who really know their stuff too. Im impressed by how knowledgeable the instructors are. You can tell they genuinely enjoy their jobs and have worked to learn deeply about the martial arts. Youll also frequently see the man himself, Rick Faye. He teaches classes a lot which is impressive compared to other gyms where the namesake doesnt show up much. Not so here, Rick walks the walk.

Dr
Review №41

I miss this place!

Ja
Review №42

MKG is a fantastic place to train and learn. Great instructors and wonderful material. Its a blast!

La
Review №43

First of all I got the opportunity to train @ MKG twice both of my experiences were very positive! I train at a different martial arts school, I informed MKG of that info. They treated me with respect which is very very important to me. It took a lot for me to get out of my element. After class the instructor (Evan , the owner, and the young lady who ran the Muay Thai class answered all my questions. I felt very comfortable and I definitely look forward to training there very soon. Thank you for making my experience a very good one.

Da
Review №44

The MN Kali Group is provides a wide range of high-quality martial arts training in a laid-back, fun, supportive atmosphere. They actively discourage an ego-driven approach, so even the very advanced students are humble and happy to help beginners. Youll find all kinds of people training here for many reasons. The classes are as challenging as you want to make them, they always emphasize safety, and even though the owner is a well-known and respected Guru who travels the world to teach seminars, he is available and friendly to everyone who steps into the gym - very down to earth guy.

St
Review №45

My kids and I go here, great gym. Everybody is really nice and helpful. More experienced students take time to work with new ones. Training is tough but fun and a great stress relief. If you are looking for a martial arts school come here

je
Review №46

This is a fabulous place to train! The instructors are very welcoming to all levels. The other students are also helpful and patient when working with newbies. The breadth of classes that are offered will keep you learning for life. Leave the ego at the door, train hard and have fun!

pa
Review №47

Very open to beginners and a great atmosphere, could not say enough about this place.

An
Review №48

As one of the more established Martial Arts schools in the Twin Cities, MKG is in a class of its own with its fun, inclusive, and supportive students, staff and instructors. Stellar instructional quality and great ethos for students from all walks of life. Highly recommended!

A
Review №49

New at MKG. Here is what I already love about MKG: friendliness of staff and how it is passed on to everyone in the gym, wide range of classes, styles; family-friendly environment; patience w newbies; enthusiasm for the sport; membership options; encouragement; nice vibe; accepting of all people... Im already telling my neighbors about you!!

Ti
Review №50

Positive and inviting atmosphere. Some of the best instructors you can find in the 5 state area. Guro Faye and Guro Rathborne are some of the best instructors in the world. MKG provides a safe space for learning and growth. If youve never taken martial arts, its a great place to start. If youre a veteran martial artist, this is a great place to broaden your knowledge base.

Br
Review №51

I have studied martial arts for over 40 years. But it wasnt until I discovered the Minnesota Kali Group that I found my home. They have the depth of knowledge to improve and integrate Kali and the other arts on offer with what I already know.MKG Has also allowed me to grow as an individual both mentally, physically (I lost 75lbs with their Muay Thai program) and emotionally. The MKG family has helped me through tough times and opened the world to me, allowing me to travel to meet other amazing people that share these wonderful arts.They regularly host some of the top martial arts instructors/mentors/experts; including the humble, yet incredible Guro Dan Inosanto.You would be hard pressed to meet a more unique and welcoming environment.

Ja
Review №52

Some of the best Martial Arts instruction in the world! Great, fun atmosphere. 👍👍

ma
Review №53

I have been to gyms in Arizona, Texas, and Utah. this is by far my favorite. I can not recommend this place enough. there is no ego here and they are not afraid to remind you of it. if you are wanting to try it, DO!

JR
Review №54

World class instruction on several martial arts. Professionally run with humor, fun and very little ego. Many classes to suit multiple needs.

Co
Review №55

MKG is one of the rare places where you can discover and rediscover yourself on many levels over many years. It is a place that combines fitness, learning, and social activities in an open and friendly atmosphere. When I began I saw it as gym for training and fitness, by the time I left I saw the multiple awakenings and changes a great place like that can provide.

Sh
Review №56

I love this place! MKG offers world class instruction in a friendly and affordable environment. I cant say enough good things about this place:)

Je
Review №57

The old school training class is great!

Co
Review №58

Honestly the best martial arts experience Ive had. I had trained a handful of styles at other gyms before stumbling into a free week membership here, and nothing compares. Ive been here 5 years now, and am surrounded by people who have stuck with the gym over a decade. Why? simply put - the best martial arts instruction, an excellent fitness program in the Phase 1 class in particular, and a laid back atmosphere that lets you learn world class martial arts but still enjoy the experience. Seriously. Free week membership. Do it.

Ly
Review №59

Since 2014 I have been training at seminars with Guro Rick Faye and his amazing group of people. I have learned so much that has aided greatly to my training progression. He informs in the art, while making it fun! Check them out if in the area-you will not be disappointed!!

Tr
Review №60

I loved it, great exercise and great strategy..

Is
Review №61

I highly recommend them!

ka
Review №62

Ive been going to this gym for about 3 months now and I can definitely see a difference in my fitness level. Ive also become more confident in self defense. The drills that they teach you work together to become an automatic reaction, where you arent even thinking about the next move, you are just doing it. Love that they have so many different options too: Phase 1, Kickboxing, even some yoga, plus many others...My favorite part about this gym is that they have a self defense seminar for women. During the seminar you actually get to try the different moves that they teach you on a person that is dressed up in a bunch of pads. It is very different from any other class I have taken like this because you actually put the moves to work. Plus, they are basic moves that you will hopefully remember in the moment! They also teach that the best defense is a great offense, always watching around you and fleeing if you can before having to resort to fighting for your life. Plus they make you try confidence tactics, where you yell aggressively at the padded person before they stop. Which teaches you to be assertive and that its ok to say when you are uncomfotable in a situation. All in all its a great class and I recomend everyone to take it. Hopefully you will not need to use the moves, but if you have to, then you will be at least a tad more prepared, and it could make a world of difference.

be
Review №63

Best martial arts school in the cities.But it isnt the best because of Sifu Ricks badassary, or because Rick trained with Bruce Lees partner and friend Dan Inosanto, or because there are so many martial arts to choose from or because its a good workout..Its great because the instructors are not only top of the line, but because they are really good teachers too. This isnt a super strict place where if you talk out of turn you have to do 100 push-ups, and that makes this place all the more fun to go to.Pros:Elite instructorsFriendly environmentConnection to Bruce LeeTons of different artsCons:Occasionally Sifu Rick goes out of the country to visit his other schools, but he always makes sure a knowledgeable teacher takes his place.Thanks MKGP.S. The first week you go there is free, so try it!

Pa
Review №64

The Minnesota Kali GroupIs a great place to train self defense, get fit, learn multiple martial arts and have fun doing it. Beyond the world class training headed by Rick Faye, MKG hosts numourous World Class seminars through out the year. Guru Dan Inosanto, Arjan Chai, Paul Harris, Hannette Stack, and Tuhon Bill Magrath to name a few. The Kali group is a relaxed environment to learn whatever dicipline you find interesting in the curriculum.If you have ever wanted to learn martial arts I highly recommend you stop into the gym, try a phase class and see what they are about.Hope to see you here!BestTom

Ga
Review №65

Great classes, welcoming environment. I started training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu here as a beginner and have continued for the past two years. Great coaches Fabio Morescalchi, Joe Swore, John Dornick. Great classes for women students also!

He
Review №66

I did the muay thai class for two months, rarely was it the same instructor two days in a row. so i had a hard time getting comfortable with a teacher i dont remember any of there names because of this. it was a great workout but thats all it was, a workout. you are not aloud to spar for your first six months. so you have to waste half a year before you get practical training. it was just conditioning and hitting the bags. its not that you wont learn anything its just that you wont learn all that quickly because of the slow paced training. ive found a school where i got to spar and grapple on my first class. there is still conditioning and hitting bags, but there is much more, sparring, grappling, situational defenses. rick faye should not be underestimated as a martial artist, but as a teacher, he was to busy travelling to teach me much personally.

Gr
Review №67

The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program at Minnesota Kali Group is headed by Fabio Morescalchi of Akagi Jiu-Jitsu as well as co-instructors Joe Swore and John Dornick. I have been training there for a year and half about 2-3 times a week and strongly recommend the program to anyone looking to train BJJ in Minneapolis. The school is located on Chicago Ave a few blocks off of I35W and Crosstown. The fees are very affordable and flexible (no forced yearly contract) and the atmosphere laid back though you will work hard to earn your stripes - literally and figuratively.The coaching there is top notch. Coach Morescalchi is dedicated to the art and to doing everything he can to make his students better. He has been training for 24 years in Jiu-Jitsu and holds a brown belt in Judo as well. The BJJ program’s lineage can be traced through Chris McCune - Fabio Morescalchi’s coach - who is a 2nd degree black belt under Rigan Machado. Whether you’re a total beginner or have been training for several years; are looking to compete or like me just want to take classes, have fun and get in shape, there is something for you there. Coaches Morescalchi, Swore and Dornick have very different games, so whether you’re a smaller athletic player who likes to move a lot or have a larger build and favor a pressure game, you will receive coaching adapted to your body type, fitness level and athletic abilities.Lastly, the program regularly hosts great seminars (Jeff Glover, Tom Oberhue, Mike Ellefson, Chris Haueter, Chris McCune…) as well as visits or hosts our cousin schools for fun rolling sessions. Stop by for a free class anytime, everyone there is always eager to welcome new students.See you on the mat!

Ja
Review №68

Awesome jiu jitsu classes taught by knowledgeable and supportive instructors--Fabio Morescalchi of Akagi Jiu-Jitsu, Joe Swore, John Dornick and Tom Riggle. Check it out!!

Be
Review №69

I recently moved to the Nakomis area and stumbled upon the Minnesota Kali Group, where I have been attending BJJ/Grappling classes for about two months. I have not had a chance to participate in classes outside of their grappling class, but based on the reviews of other people I have talked to I definitely will be.Previously, I spent about a year training BJJ at the Minnesota Martial Arts Academy (which I would also recommend for anyone in the Brooklyn Center area). However, after getting married, moving twice, and having kids, my fitness and technique were almost non-existent. My first few classes were with Joe Swore, who did a fantastic job at being encouraging and making me feel welcome. Since then, classes have been run by Fabio Morescalchi of Akagi Jiu-Jitsu. Both of the instructors I have experience with, as well as a number of the other higher-ranking belts, do an amazing job of fostering a friendly and productive culture and have been fantastic teachers.Additionally, the community of grapplers at the Minnesota Kali Group is truly fantastic. The culture established by the MKG staff is evident in just about every student and it is always easy to get a high quality roll. I would strongly recommend the Minnesota Kali Group to anyone looking for some good people and good grappling.

M5
Review №70

Best place for training well roundedness in the Martial Arts.

Re
Review №71

I can say authoritatively having trained there on and off for three years that it is one of the best martial arts instruction schools in the world. Guro Rick Faye has been invited to teach in seminars all over the world and is a direct student of Larry Hartsell. Guro Rick is recognized around the world for his expertise in the field of Jeet Kune Do and in aspects of the Filipino martial arts particularly Kali. If you want to live the martial arts dream and train like Bruce and learn his secrets then dont miss this precious opportunity!

Bl
Review №72

Very laid back, very good instruction, and generally good people. Just a warning though, not all the classes are beginner friendly.

Information
47 Photos
72 Comments
4.9 Rating
  • Address:4532 Chicago Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407, United States
  • Site:http://www.mnkali.com/
  • Phone:+1 612-821-6800
Categories
  • Martial arts school
Working hours
  • Monday:9AM–1PM
  • Tuesday:8AM–2PM
  • Wednesday:9AM–2PM
  • Thursday:6AM–1PM
  • Friday:6–8AM
  • Saturday:6AM–1PM
  • Sunday:6–8AM
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance:Yes
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