Tae Kwon Do is a Korean martial art of self-defense, using bare hands and feet. Tae Kwon Do literally means "hand, foot, and way of life." It was developed centuries ago by Korean monks, who were not allowed to carry weapons, as a means to protect themselves. Today many people find that there are many other benefits to be gained from training in Tae Kwon Do, including weight control, improved flexibility, increased stamina, and strong mental focus.

Tae Kwon Do is still actively practiced by Buddhist monks in Korea today. To see some pictures from a recent studio-sponsored trip to Korea, please see the Photo Gallery.

It is common knowledge that regular exercise offers many health benefits. It is also true that many adults and children do not get adequate exercise in their lives. Tae Kwon Do is an ideal solution for many people because it not only promotes physical fitness, but also provides the added benefit of learning self-defense techniques. Through physical and mental training, Tae Kwon Do helps individuals become more resilient, confident, patient, and strong. Tae Kwon Do is more than just a sport; it is an art form rooted in history and tradition. By studying Tae Kwon Do, the student is opening his or her mind to new ideas, cultures, and ways of life.

Choi's Tae Kwon Do offers many advantages over other martial arts schools including:

1. History
2. Tradition
3. Strong Organization
4. Proven Training Methods
5. Mature, Experienced, and Knowledgeable Instructors

For more information on why you should choose Choi's Tae Kwon Do, please see the History of Choi's Tae Kwon Do.

The minimum age for starting Tae Kwon Do at our school is six. Past experiences have shown that most children younger than six do not have long enough attention spans to comprehend or follow instructions well. As a result, they often experience frustration and give up. It is better to wait until the child is old enough to fully benefit and enjoy the classes rather than to start them too early.

It generally takes between three and one-half to five years depending on the time commitment and individual abilities. Getting a Black Belt is not a race. Rather, it is a process of learning about perseverance, self-improvement, determination, discipline, confidence, and other qualities that are required in Tae Kwon Do. Students are encouraged to train at their own pace. The ultimate goal for each student is to earn the Black Belt because it is culmination of years of training and symbol of perseverance, knowledge and a major accomplishment.

The reason is "motivation." Each different belt color allows the student to see the progress that he or she is making towards the ultimate goal of becoming a black belt. It also allows others within the Tae Kwon Do community to recognize the student's level of experience.

The instructor will inform the student when he or she is ready to test for the next level. Eligibility is determined by the number of days trained, as well as the instructor's judgement as to whether or not the student has achieved the expertise required for the intended rank. The average time in each rank is 2 months for the Novice Ranks, 4 months for the Intermediate and Advanced levels.