Rosemount Martial Arts Academy proudly serving Rosemount since 2002

Rosemount Martial Arts Academy has Classes in Rosemount, Perfect for Kids, Teens, and Adults Martial Arts Lessons.

Who we Are And why You Should Train Here

Since we’ve opened, we’ve been dedicated to changing the lives of people one person at a time, through martial arts, education and coaching. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for all students and family members. We take pride in creating an environment for individuals to achieve, develop and succeed in their personal goals.

We strongly believe that martial arts can be for everyone, regardless of age, gender or experience levels. Throughout all of our programs, students will not only learn the necessary skill sets to protect themselves, we stand behind our realistic and practical approach, confident it will enable every member to achieve greatness and live their best life..

Our team is passionate about:

Leading by example, as John Adams said “if your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, You are a leader.”
We have a great team that supports our students . . .
We are providing an environment that fosters community, camaraderie, and positivity
We provide the best martial arts experience
We are creating an environment that allows youth to develop leadership skills

Get To Know Our World Class Instructors

Mr. Walter Johnson
Owner and Chief Instructor

I’m the Owner and Chief Instructor of the Rosemount Martial Arts Academy. When I was a child, I began my martial arts journey, and the positive impact it had on my life was remarkable. It was always my dream to someday own my own Academy in Rosemount, to create a positive environment for students to build their confidence through learning how to protect themselves. So that they can walk with that confidence in their everyday lives.

More about Mr. J:

5th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo, Gracie Jiu Jitsu Purple, Women Empowered Pink Belt
Certified ATA Legacy Instructor, Elite School Owner, Level 3 Certified Gracie Jiu Jitsu Instructor
30+ Years experience in Martial Arts Arts, 25+ years of teaching
Business degree from Hamline University

Mr. Johnson, Head Instrcutor

Mr. Mershon

My name is Lynn Mershon, and I’m a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Certified Instructor and 4-stripe Blue Belt with more than 7 years of training at the academy. Before beginning my Jiu-Jitsu journey, I spent 23 years serving on active duty in the United States Marine Corps, where I had the opportunity to train in a variety of martial arts and military defensive tactics. Over the years, I earned a 2nd Degree Brown Belt in Aikido, a Purple Belt in Taekwondo, and a Brown Belt in Hakkoryu Karate Jitsu. Because of my military career and frequent moves, I never stayed in one place long enough to pursue a black belt in a single style, but it gave me a broad perspective on different techniques, philosophies, and approaches to teaching.

As an instructor, my goal is to create a welcoming, family-like environment where students of all ages and skill levels feel comfortable learning and challenging themselves. I believe training should build more than just self-defense skills — it should also develop confidence, discipline, resilience, and friendships that carry over into everyday life. I want students to leave class feeling stronger, more capable, and proud of the progress they are making, no matter where they started.

Outside of the academy, I enjoy motorcycles, staying active, outdoor activities, and traveling. If it involves a little adventure, I’m usually interested.

Mrs. Duval

Mrs. Duval is a dedicated Women Empowered instructor who brings both energy and focus to every class. Having trained at the academy for 7 years, she has developed strong foundational skills and a passion for helping newer students grow. Mrs. Duval enjoys creating a positive and encouraging environment while continuing to improve her own technique.

More about Tracy:

-Gracie Jiu Jitsu Blue Belt

-Gracie Jiu Jitsu Pink belt

Ms. Choudhury

Hi, my name is Avantika Choudhury, and I’m an assistant instructor here at Rosemount Martial Arts Academy. I’ve been training for around 11 years now and am currently a 3rd-degree black belt! I enjoy teaching and learning about proper leadership.

What I enjoy most about RMA Academy is the community and family I’ve built here after spending a long time training here. I’m passionate about teaching others about leadership and helping them succeed!

Outside of the academy, I enjoy spending time with family and friends! Other activities I do include going to concerts, playing volleyball, and watching sports!

Mr. Bacon

Hi! I’m Birk, and I assist at Rosemount Martial Arts Academy. I’ve been doing Taekwondo for 7 years now and recently received my 3rd degree black belt!

On the side I like: pursue math, I’m currently in real analysis; cook dishes from around the world; and hang out with my cat and 2 bichons.

When I’m on the floor, I enjoy working on improving my skills as a lead, but also making as many connections as possible with students when I assist, like a game. Particularly, I like to work with motivated students who are always looking to improve, whether that be substantial progress or even just by a percent.

I find RMA to be a fantastic place for me to build my skills, not only as a student, but as a leader. I’ve had the opportunity to work on many important attributes like tone, projection, and verbiage, and I look forward to continuing to develop myself as well as others at the academy.

Ms. L'Heureux

My name is Jenna L’Heureux, and I am an assistant instructor at Rosemount Martial Arts. Academy. I’ve been training at the academy since 2015.

My favorite part of assisting with classes is seeing the students have fun while learning skills they can use. I especially enjoy watching them grow in the skills that you cannot learn with fists.

RMA is very special to me. It’s a beautiful community of families, young and old. Whether you have been at the academy for one day or one decade, you always feel welcome and always have someone to learn from.

Outside of the academy, I love to do just about anything outside. I love to go on hikes, go fishing, and I will get into the water at a beach or pool every chance I get.

Mrs. Keller

My name is Ashley Keller, and I am an assistant instructor at Rosemount Martial Arts Academy. I’ve been training at the academy since early 2021 and assisting with classes since 2022. My favorite part of assisting with classes is seeing students master complex skills and watching their confidence in themselves grow as a result.

RMA is a very special place to me. It is a great community of students, young and old, all working to learn and grow every day. I’m passionate about helping others challenge themselves and learn lifelong skills that can be applied to all aspects of life.

Outside of the academy, I work in the tech industry and spend the rest of my time being a mom to my elementary-aged daughter. I also constantly try new creative hobbies like knitting, crochet, and cross-stitch, or curling up with a good book.

Mr. Hudson

My name is James Hudson. I’ve been training at the academy since 2018, and I’ve been an instructor since December 2024. As an instructor, I enjoy seeing students grow in confidence and character and sharing their excitement when learning new techniques.

My favorite part of training is learning new techniques and spending time with friends. The academy is a wonderful community, and it’s an awesome place to connect with great people.

Outside the academy, I enjoy fishing, chopping firewood, and playing hockey and football.

Ms. Peterson

My name is Diane Peterson, and I am an assistant instructor at Rosemount Martial Arts Academy. I have been training in at the Academy for over 8 years!