Click If You Want To Narrow Testimonial Search:
 

All Testimonials | Beginners | Experts | Women | Over 40 | Military & Police | Professionals
Shinbudo & Jiu Jitsu Class | Aerobic Kickboxing Class | Children's & Family Class | Eskrima Class


 

 


Testimonials From Shinbudo
& Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Students

  

"My experience at Warrior’s Cove has been profound. After three and one half years of training, the effects on my life are obvious. My fitness level has increased dramatically. I am much more flexible, have better endurance and health of the cardiovascular system. I also have better posture and have seen great improvements in balance. The most powerful change has been in my mind. The focus that I have acquired through the repetition of movements and the will to improve has been a potent ingredient in my growth. I am able to concentrate and relax under difficult circumstances. This is a great tool for dealing with stress and anxiety. I am more confident but also have better control of my ego. All of these factors have contributed to me making better life choices for health and family."

"The atmosphere inside the Cove is truly special. Everyone trains with the safety of their partner in mind. Senior members are always willing to help newer students learn technique. The code of conduct is simple, graceful and never dramatized. My experience around Mr. Arnebeck has taught me that he is generous and easygoing, but also very skilled in the martial arts and gifted in their teaching. I am daily impressed with the passion he has for his life’s work. I feel very fortunate to have this incredible place near enough to me to allow my training and I look forward to each class I attend."

Andrew Bendzick - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Warrior's Cove Competition Team Member. Previous training includes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

  

"The atmosphere is the biggest thing that drew me to this place when I first came and visited. The people were respectful and were there to learn. The classes are taught in a way that I find most effective for me to learn by presenting a problem and providing a potential solution to that problem. Also emphasis on position really helps to build a patient mindset that is needed while grappling to help avoid injury to your partner or oneself. All the instruction I have received here at the Cove has been top notch. As far as training partners go all those who train regularly during the day classes (Monday and Wednesday) are great. They all encourage me and help me learn the finer points of the technique that is taught that day. If your goals are self-defense, fitness, competition or just for fun Warrior's Cove will give you a place to meet those goals. The Cove gives you a great place to learn in a safe environment that encourages learning and hard training that will get you to the goals that you set for yourself. I would recommend Warrior's Cove to anyone looking for Martial Arts training."

Jason Bautista - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Former Training Includes 1.5 Years of Krav Maga.

 

"The instructors are friendly and informative and want you to learn. I think Josh, Andrew, Bob, Juan and Randy have done an excellent job of teaching and taking the time to show us the techniques however many times it takes and to give us one on one demonstrations as well. It's a safe atmosphere in which to learn and I feel like I'm getting real self-defense training that could be useful in the future.  I am also enjoying the sport of Jiu Jitsu as well as getting back into shape.  I already have recommended the Warrior's Cove to several people that I work with, as well as friends.  This has truly been a great experience for me, in that I am learning a useful skill and sport while having fun and getting in shape at the same time.   I've wrestled and taken Martial Arts before, but this is a realistic mixture of both that I plan on doing for a long time.  I also would like to get back into competition sometime in the future."

Todd Erickson - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Former Training Includes 2 Years Boxing, 8 Years Wrestling, 4 Years Tae Kwon Do, 1 Year Kendo.

 

"I am very very excited to finally have the opportunity to train with you at 'The Cove'. You and your assistants and the other students have impressed me a lot and everyone has been very helpful and made me feel more than welcome. Thank you!"

Joshua Iverson - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. No Previous Martial Art Training.

     

"I've taken numerous martial arts (and benefited from all of them), but I've definitely learned the most from my experience in grappling that I've received at the Warrior's Cove. I've always really appreciated the realism our school embraces. The people we tend to attract and who stay with the school, as well as the instructors are the most excellent people I've ever trained in martial arts with (double kudos to that end)... I've never felt really skilled at a physical activity until I found Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. It capitalizes on my strengths, and with time, I know it will make me a formidable fighter. You don't have to be strong, fast, or big to become a formidable fighter; that is one of the first things you learn here. You learn how to overcome size, strength and blind aggression with technique. The realism of full-strength grappling (which can be done without the bruising caused by striking) wears you down at first, but you learn how to compensate technique for strength. Being less strong than your opponent becomes less intimidating, and full-strength grappling will feel pretty close to what a real self-defense situation will be like. Being a man of only modest build, I use to wonder what I'd be able to do to defend myself if someone stronger ever attacked me full-out. After near 6 months of training here, I know if I ever have to defend myself or my family from an attacker I will not worry about being tough enough."

Matthew Shotley-Menzel - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Previous training includes White Crane Kung Fu (1 1/2 years), Tiger Claw Kung Fu (1 1/2 years), Snake Style Kung Fu (1 1/2 years) and Shotokan Karate (9 months).

  

"When I found the Warriors Cove I was impressed in the safe manner that Mr. Arnebeck conducts his classes. Also the senior students impressed me in the way they help to make sure new students learn the techniques correctly. I started BJJ just to get in shape and lose weight. If you really want to lose weight just show up to class!!!! The side effects..... you will learn real self defense."

Juan Rivera - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Warrior's Cove Competition Team Member. Former Training Includes Combat Hapkido.

 

"The training I have received at the Cove is top notch. Mr. Arnebeck always answers my question no matter what it is. I feel that the training pertains to real life situations that may occur, not just the competition end. I love that I get a well rounded training as well. One day working on my feet the next on the ground. As a wrestler for many years I have been taught many moves on the ground. Shinbudo teaches me a more effective and safer ways to defend myself on the ground. Training with Mr. Arnebeck and his assistant instructors is something that I look forward to every week."

Eric Herman - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Previous training includes 11 years of Folk, Freestyle, and Grecco wrestling. Inside Sales/Fabrication for a steel company in Eagan.

 

"Warriors Cove offers great realistic martial art training to keep you safe on the street or at home. It gives well rounded instruction, allowing you to be a well rounded fighter and capable of defending yourself in any environment. However the best thing I like about Warriors Cove is the friendly training environment.  Everyone here is really supportive and answer any questions that you have."

Cutler Dozier - Shinbudo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, & Eskrima Student. 

 

"I had lost my faith in martial arts due to my prior training. I was able to make it to blue belt in tae kwon do simply by doing forms. It felt more like dance class than self defense. This all changed the day I pursued Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu."

"I was able to locate a school called Warrior's Cove, and I was also excited to learn that the school was directly associated with the great Rickson Gracie whom I've seen on many a highlight reel. He is so good in fact that Royce Gracie actually claimed Rickson to be 10 times better than him. I figured it was meant to be and went in for some information."

"I was greeted by a man named David Arnebeck. I could tell that he had a fighters build and an abundance of confidence. He made me feel at ease as we discussed my martial arts history and goals. I told him that I had taken 4 years of Tae Kwon Do but still felt as thought I was no good in a 'real' situation. I was good at forms but lacked the real sparring experience. He told me that many students at Warrior's Cove had joined because of the 'true to life' training. He said, 'kicking the air will do you no good.'  He said many things that I also heard from Bruce Lee's fighting philosophy. He had me convinced. I joined that week. I have now found what seems to be the most effective form of self defense and exercise."

"My first day was a real eye opener. I didn't want to be like most beginners. I wanted to get right into free-sparring. This is where you wrestle other students to gain superior positions as they are taught in class. My first opponent was a towering gentleman by the name of Jan. (pronounced Yan) Being much taller than me, Jan had a considerable advantage not to mention he was also a gold belt. We started 'rolling' and he put me into his guard. To be in some ones guard means that you are trapped between their legs as they lay on their back. I had no choice but to give up. He then followed up by showing me ways to escape. This is what I love about this school. The other students aren't there to 'beat' you. They are there to learn and to teach others as well. Mr. Arnebeck goes out of his way to do the same. He is never hesitant to demonstrate the move with you in order to answer your questions. The teaching is great, the students and staff are very helpful and receptive, and the atmosphere is that of a dedicated practice."

"I have come a long way since my first week and am now (11-15-04) a 3rd degree white belt on my way to my gold belt. I can't wait to have enough experience to make it to gold so that I am able to start the submission moves. I already feel so much stronger and well balanced. My asthma has also been tamed to the point where I'm barely using my inhaler. Thanks to Warrior's Cove I have a new found confidence in myself and the art and I know that I will actually 'earn' my way to new ranks. I'd rather be a white belt at Warrior's Cove than a higher rank anywhere else. Thank you..."

Michael Geronsin - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Previous Training Includes 4 Years of Tae Kwon Do.

  

"You have earned my respect and loyalty as a student. Congratulations for your success at the Arnold [Schwarzenegger] & Gracie Brothers World Championships!"

Matt House - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student.

  

"I am a former soldier of the 82nd Airborne Division, U.S. Army. I like the overall training I am receiving at the Cove. I really love the longer class times. The options a person has with the Cove are awesome. I would recommend the Warrior's Cove to anyone who is tired of the same old same old. At the Cove everything is new and fun. I get all of the strength training and cardio work I could ask for, plus the added bonus of the mental and psychological aspect of martial arts training. Really helps me to focus on other goals I have in life."

Zach Patterson - Shinbudo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Previous Training Includes 1.5 years of Japanese Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing & Boxing. Upper Midwest Golden Gloves Boxing Champion - 1991. Former Army Soldier - 82nd Airborne.

  

"The quality of training, the hours, the flexibility to attend other classes and sessions are all GREAT! I've only been a member for a short time, but I have found all of the instructors to be deserving of recognition.  They have all shown tremendous patience with me personally and have taken the time to work with me to improve. I originally joined the Cove as a way of providing some conditioning to my workouts.  I'm happy to say that I received that and so much more.  Under Mr. Arnebeck's direction and dedication the Cove has been an incredible experience.  My conditioning has improved, I've lost over 20lbs, and I've taken my self defense skills to a whole new level.  The Warrior's Cove provides everything you're looking for."

Robert Plaszcz - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Warrior's Cove Competition Team Member. Chief Information Officer, Allina Health System. No Previous Martial Art Training.

  

"The Warriors Cove has turned out to be a kind of fountain of youth for me.  At age 47, I am among the older students at the Cove.  After decades of strenuous farm work and even more intense lifting at UPS while attending school in my 40’s, I found myself at a desk job after graduation.  As a result, my body seemed to begin to “freeze” from inactivity, and about every six months, I’d pull something in my back and walk bent over for 2 to 4 weeks.  My shoulders had gotten to the point of discomfort when simply putting my hands on my hips.  Resting my arm on the back of chair or sofa was nearly impossible.  Many trips and hundreds of dollars to chiropractors were only marginally effective in relieving the discomfort, yet the root problems remained.

As a result of the warm-up, stretching and comprehensive conditioning from live grappling at the Warriors Cove, I haven’t had a single occurrence of back trouble in the year and a half that I’ve been a member despite giving my back a great deal more bending, flexing and twisting during my workouts.  My shoulders have more range of motion and less pain since longer ago than I can remember.  My flexibility, endurance and appearance continue to improve with each passing month.

The last profound benefit of the Warriors Cove for me has been the anxiety and stress relief.  The relaxing effects of such a comprehensive and safe workout are also evident through the interaction between students before and after a workout.  Upon arrival, many students including myself are very quiet and introspective.  However, as we are leaving after the open gym, the volume level of conversation among the same people is notably greater.

My experience at the Warriors Cove has been very positive due to the fore mentioned benefits along with the emphasis on safety and the skill and dedication of Mr. Arnebeck and his staff.  If I were to offer advice to new students, it would be two-fold: First , set priorities and know what you hope to accomplish. Second, be patient.  The results will come."

Tom Roehl - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Warrior's Cove Competition Team Member. Previous Experience: High School Wrestling

  

"I like that every other day is stand up or grappling so one does not get frustrated by missing one or the other. There are a lot of class times which makes it easy to come in and take classes. So far everyone at the cove has been great, fun to work with and learn from. I have recommended it to the majority of coworkers telling them that it is a great work out and would provide a practical application to our jobs as police officers."

Tom Gagnon - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Police Officer.

 

"The number one thing that the Cove has going for it is the culture--everyone was very friendly when I first came to look at the school. The sense of cooperation, respect, and conscientiousness about safety has carried over to the classes as well. The "Warrior's Cove" couldn't be more aptly named. It is a rejuvenating place for people that have chosen to be the protectors for those that they love. I read an article the other day that resonated: "But what if you have a capacity for violence, and a deep love for your fellow citizens? What do you have then? A sheepdog, a warrior, someone who is walking the hero's path. Someone who can walk into the heart of darkness, into the universal human phobia, and walk out unscathed."

Michael Lomker - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu student. Former Karate student.

    

"Super professional training, very practical, challenging, great overall conditioning. The Warrior's Cove offers practical and real-world self-defense training."

Terry Luke - Shinbudo & Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Student. Business Presentation Consultant.

  

"I am still in Prague teaching English and I am currently the director of a teacher training program here that I established. Martial Arts in this city is pretty seedy and usually cater to the Russian Mob type. The techniques are always completely overshadowed by the use of brute force. The end result is that you never seem to improve in grace or understanding - only in aggression. I wanted you to know that your school is the best training facility that I have ever been to and you are easily the best teacher I have ever had. I just wanted to thank you for your never-ending patience with me and the rest of your students. I know it must be frustrating to have to demonstrate techniques over and over again and correct students mistakes. Thank you for taking the time to show us the details of proper form and technique."

Chris Westergaard - Shinbudo & Jiu Jitsu Student. Director of The Language House, Prague, Czech Republic

  

    Click Here For More Testimonials  


If you are interested in taking one or more classes at the Warrior's Cove, we suggest you visit during the class you are interested in. We have a seating area for visitors. You may stop by as many times as you like to watch classes. You may also participate in one free class in each program that we offer.  You will find both our instructors and the other members to be friendly, informative, and supportive.

If you have any questions that are not answered at this website, please call or email the office nearest you.


     Click Here For Contact Information    


     Main Warrior's Cove Page