1. What is Tae Kwon Do?
Tae Kwon Do is a martial art that began its development in Korea over 2,000 years ago.

Literally translated:
• Tae means kick
• Kwon means fist
• Do means discipline or art

Tae Kwon Do is a non-violent art and system of complete body exercises as well as a way of life. Tae Kwon Do is not just kicking and punching, it's much more then that. It is an ongoing test of physical and mental fitness, of stamina, perseverance, courage, and creativity. It combines the best of mind and body discipline into an art form which can become a way of life. Tae Kwon Do is action philosophy. It gives the practitioner the opportunity to conquer new goals, while at the same time allowing him/her to set higher standards for personal performance. In this way progress is always possible. The dedicated student is trained in goal-setting and making the sacrifices necessary to achieve those goals.

2. Who can benefit from Tae Kwon Do?
People of all ages, physical fitness, and backgrounds will enjoy and benefit from the practice of Tae Kwon Do. Participants can establish their own levels of activity at any age and physical condition. The benefits are psychological and sociological as well as physical. Tae Kwon Do provides recreation and a feeling of achievement and self-confidence. It also provides a challenge for participants in a competitive setting. The training aims at the development of balance, speed, agility, power, rhythm, muscular endurance, flexibility and strength. Neuromuscular coordination and cardiovascular efficiency are also a greatly aided by participating in Tae Kwon Do. A significant additional feature is Tae Kwon Do's benefit as a lifesaving art of self-defense and personal protection for people of all ages.

3. How do I Start?
The best way to learn more about how YOU can benefit from Tae Kwon Do is to set-up an appointment to meet our instructors, see our school and try a 15-20 minutes "Intro" lesson. There is absolutely no obligation in trying out this FREE lesson - it is just an opportunity for you to learn more about us and what King Tiger Academy can do to help you achieve your goals for yourself and for your entire family! To get started today, simply fill out our consultation request form or call us for an appointment.

4. When can I start?
New students can begin any day of the week. Please give us a call to schedule your orientation class which we offer before your first class. 

5. How Long Are Classes?
Our 4-6 year old children train for 30 minutes. Classes for beginning children ages 7-11, teens and adults are 45 minutes. Advanced classes and our Black Belt College classes are longer.

6. How often do I come to class?
In order for you to learn and retain the skills and to achieve the positive habits necessary to become physically fit, beginners are expected to attend classes two times a week for the first six months. After that you may qualify for our Black Belt College program, where you can train more often. We'll talk more about that later on. For now, just get into the habit of coming to class twice-a-week ready to work hard and learn all you can.

7. Do I have to be in shape before I start here?
One of the biggest misconceptions about studying martial arts is that you have to already be in shape to learn. Most students come to us looking to get in shape and to develop a healthy lifestyle by learning something interesting that they can do for the rest of their lives. Two months after you start you will feel so much better, you won't believe it.

8. Do I have to wear a uniform?
Students must wear a uniform at all times

9. How do I get my next belt?
Beginner students earn their High White first. A testing notice is provided in class.

10. So, how long does it take to get my black belt?
Everyone progresses one's own pace, but the average time it takes to earn your black belt is around three to four years with the majority of our students earning their Black Belt in 3 years.

11. Do I have to break Boards and Bricks?
Part of your training involves learning to focus your power on one spot--in one instant. At each belt level, depending on age, students have the opportunity to break boards (no bricks for now). And most students tell us it's the most exciting part of their tests. They love it!

12. So, how safe is the study of martial arts? What's all that fighting?
First of all we don't "fight". Fighting has no rules and is done when all other options have been exhausted. We practice "sparring". Sparring has rules (especially for safety). We wear protective gear and use only enough power to score points. We don't try to knock each other out. We teach respect. Injuring your sparring partner is disrespectful. In reality, this is one of the safest activities you and your child will ever enjoy. 

13. Does martial art training really help children who have low self-esteem Problems?
It's amazing what martial arts can do for a child's self-esteem and within a reasonably short amount of time. This quality derives from consistent training. Even when a child doesn't see the results for himself, he must be encouraged to continue with the training. Eventually, it will manifest itself in surprising ways.

14. Why is structure so important in contributing to self-esteem in children?
Children expect to be told what to do: otherwise, they become fearful. Rewarding them when they're good, and disciplining them when they're bad is a basic martial arts structure, which will help them develop a pattern of accomplishment.

15. Will my training give me the confidence to take more chances in life?
Definitely! Martial arts successes can be carried over into daily life. If, for example, you can see how you've accomplished breaking a board to earn your yellow belt, then why can't you go in and ask for a promotion at work? Understanding that you can accomplish what you set out to do is a great discovery achieved through consistent training.

16. When will I start to feel better about myself?
The very first time you put on the uniform, and take part in your first class. Also, Becoming part of a positive group that has the same goal in mind, directed by a positive and anchored instructor, is a great source of comfort for the soul.