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A martial art, an art form, a way of life.
Introduction

Tae Kwon Do is a Korean martial art that uses bare feet and hands as weapons. The literal translation is "the art of kicking and punching." Commonly called "Korean Karate," Tae Kwon Do is similar to karate in many ways, including its use of colored belts, ranging from white through black, to show rank.

All Tae Kwon Do students learn punches, blocks, and self-defense techniques, but kicks are the Tae Kwon Do trademark. Kicks are divided into two categories: linear kicks such as the front, side, and back kicks; and circular kicks such as a wheel, crescent, or round kick. All of these techniques are used in sparring and can be delivered from either a stationary position or while jumping.

The "art" of Tae Kwon Do is most evident in its prearranged patterns called hyungs. A hyung is a set of offensive and defensive movements performed in a sequence against multiple imaginary opponents. Hyungs help to develop balance, speed, focus, timing, endurance, and power. For most students hyungs become a contest against the self and a way to strive for their personal best. 

Benefits of Tae Kwon Do

Tae Kwon Do students earn numerous benefits from the study of the martial arts. They learn how to effectively defend themselves from potential harm, increase their physical and mental fitness, and improve their balance and coordination. Students also learn patience and respect towards others and, most importantly, toward themselves.

In their truest sense, the martial arts go far beyond learning to fight and defend oneself. As martial artists, we encourage self-discipline and try to instill in our students admirable human qualities that will help them in every aspect of their lives. Ultimately, Tae Kwon Do is about living, not fighting.

The five most important lessons to be learned in Tae Kwon Do are Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. If students practice these five tenets, they will become good role models and will always set an example for others to follow. In addition, they will exemplify the true philosophy of Tae Kwon Do, which is to become an honorable human being with perfect character and physical condition.

Kim's Tae Kwon Do

Kim's Tae Kwon Do is the largest Tae Kwon Do association in the Northwest. All of our schools are supervised by Grandmaster Hong Sik Kim, who ensures that high standards are maintained by all students and instructors. Kim's Tae Kwon Do schools practice traditional martial arts in a non-contact environment to avoid discrimination against any men, women, or children who wish to study. Through non-contact training, students learn to control themselves both mentally and physically without fear of injury. Finally, and most importantly, all of Kim's Tae Kwon Do schools are dedicated to Progress, Peace, and Love.

Becoming a Black Belt

In Tae Kwon Do, as in all martial arts, there is no set time frame for achieving a black belt. Because each individual works toward different standards of excellence, some will reach black belt sooner than others. Those students who never lose sight of their goals will gain self-discipline, self-confidence, and the ability to set and live up to high standards in anything they do.

In general, students get out of Tae Kwon Do exactly what they put into it. For those who are extremely dedicated, willing to work hard, and attend class regularly, the level of black belt can be achieved in approximately two and a half to three years. For students who are not as dedicated and do not attend class regularly, it can take as long as five or six years. But however long it does take, it is important to realize that a black belt is not something to acquire, it is instead someone to become