Oakdale’s Spartan Martial Arts Expands

In an effort to expand its “martial art fitness phase,” Spartan Martial Arts in Oakdale has moved into a new 7,000-square-foot space.

The new spot is at 432 Hayward Ave. N., and functions as a dual facility: one side for those training to fight, the other for people looking to exercise by practicing martial arts.

Owner Tom Schmitz said people often contact Spartan Martial Arts about training, but don’t want to feel as though they have to spar.

The change, he said, means “the 40-year-old doctor and the 22-year-old wrestler can train together.”

Schmitz said he has about 100 students, but only 8-10 actually compete.

A grand opening is set for Saturday, Oct. 19, with events running from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. There will be demonstrations of everything from Muay Thai to jiu-jutsu to kettle bells, along with food, facility tours and free samples from Nutrishop. A retail area is also part of the expansion.

This marks the third time Spartan Martial Arts has expanded, said Schmitz, a certified Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor who has several up-and-coming mixed-martial arts fighters under his tutelage. Several students drive from as far as Duluth and Rochester to train at the Oakdale facility.

The growth will allow Spartan Martial Arts to offer a wider variety of classes, “to get the whole family to work out together,” Schmitz said.

The popularity Spartan Martial Arts reflects the growing acceptance of MMA and its exposure on television.

“Understanding that it’s not barbaric,” Schmitz said. “You can train safely and not have to fight.”