What is Taekwondo?

A martial art that trains people physically and mentally

The definition of taekwondo can vary with the times we live in, the place we live in, the purpose for which people study it, and personal opinion. In the broadest definition, the ATA defines taekwondo as "a martial art that trains people both physically and mentally."

Taekwondo in today's society is taught as a defensive art which develops skills in self-protection, physical agility and mental awareness. Many view it as a goal-setting and self-improvement program: participants develop mental strength while learning effective methods of self-defense.

Source: Songahm Taekwondo instructor's manual.

Taekwondo classes for all ages: self-defense, confidence, integrity, self-regulation, respect for self and others
Two young Tiger students in front of the ATA banner

Age: potty trained to 7 years old

Tigers

The Tiny Tiger program was developed specifically for preschool-age children. It gives children a strong foundation in essential character qualities such as courtesy, respect and discipline, and is designed to improve motor skills and the ability to pay attention and follow directions. Classes are taught using the safest, most fun and exciting instruction methods available for this age group.

Tigers earn eight collectable animal patches to display on their belts as they rank up:

  • Tiger Orange
  • Cheetah Yellow
  • Lion Camo
  • Eagle Green
  • Phoenix Purple
  • Dragon Blue
  • Cobra Brown
  • Panther Red

When Tigers graduate into the Junior program, they earn the right to wear the "Big Kids" patch.

Junior Bridge: 6 to 9 · Juniors: 8 to 16

Junior Bridge & Juniors

There are many reasons for kids to get involved in martial arts. Our program for kids is based on traditional Songahm Taekwondo and a lifetime-learning concept, in addition to technical skills. The building blocks are monthly character themes such as:

  • Goals
  • Friendship
  • Perseverance
  • Self-Control
  • Confidence
  • Self-Improvement
  • Courtesy
  • Self-Awareness
  • Respect
  • Integrity
  • Self-Esteem
  • Dedication
Three junior students with their tournament medals
Adult students and black belts together

Ages 13 and up

Teens & Adults

You are never too old to learn something new. Teens (13–17) and adults have their own classes several evenings a week and on Saturday mornings, plus sparring and weapons classes. Many of our adults train alongside their kids — and we offer free classes for the 3rd and additional family members.

See the class schedule

Weekday afternoons

Homeschool Program

Keller ATA is one of the few Taekwondo schools that offers an exclusive Homeschool Program — a great way for children and teens to meet new people and make new friends. It's exclusive to homeschoolers, but doesn't restrict access to any other classes at the academy.

Many of our homeschool students also join Ms. Mary's Book Club.

Students sitting together at a tournament
Special Abilities student with a Grand Master

Twice a week

Special Abilities

Keller ATA is for everyone. We offer Special Abilities classes two times per week, and our instructors have a history of working with students with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other conditions. We build confidence and instill discipline in all of our students.

As part of the American Taekwondo Association, we attend ATA tournaments that offer a division for special abilities competitors. If you ever thought your child's behavior or disability would keep them from sports, think again — come in and try a free class or call us for more information.

By invitation

Leadership & SWAT

Leadership students at a tournament

Leadership

At the ATA we take leadership very seriously, and our leaders are serious about their responsibilities. The Songahm Taekwondo family is our foremost concern. Leadership students compete for state, district and world titles at ATA tournaments.

SWAT team students in their blue uniforms

S.W.A.T.

A select group of students serve as role models and helpers in their own classes and as assistants to the instructors in other classes. SWAT team members lead by example — inside and outside of class — demonstrating responsibility, discipline and respect at all times.

Xtreme Martial Arts

XMA & Weapons

XMA is a mixed sport of acrobatics, gymnastics and martial arts — with an X-Games pace for weapons drills, too. In the words of its creator: "It's not only about punching and kicking, or jumping and flipping, but showing strength through the mind as well as the body."

XMA is great for the extreme person and the not-so-extreme. You don't need any prior martial arts experience to try it: the class takes the skills students already have and turns them up to XTREME.

Student performing with a weapon at a tournament

Try a class yourself — free!

Everyone is included at our school and no athlete sits on the bench. Come see why whole families train with us.