What is Taekwondo?

Taekwondo is a Korean Martial Art popularized for its dramatic flying and spinning kicks often popularized on TV and in Movies. The name comes from the Korean words tae (foot, or kick), kwon (fist or punch), and do (art or way of life), and literally means "the way of the hand and foot."


Who can benefit from Taekwondo training?

Everyone can! The ATA has practicing students from four years old into their seventies and it also has the largest number of active women black belts of any martial arts organization in the world.  Taekwondo offers something for a child that no other sport can. It's a "learning style" athletic activity that develops a sense of self discipline that can carry over into all aspects of competition and life.


Why study and practice Songham Taekwondo?

The ATA has developed and refined several programs for a variety of purposes, ranging from basic martial arts, to self defense, to self esteem and life skills building, and more. Over the years, the ATA has come to realize that there are many reasons for studying Songahm Taekwondo, and we have worked hard to develop programs that will help realize these goals rather than forcing our students into one, linear area of study and practice.

Songahm Taekwondo itself is always evolving, and as such the ATA will always develop new programs and update our existing programs to ensure our students have as much access to the different aspects of Songahm Taekwondo as possible.


Why different colored belts?

The concept of belts and rank is probably one that most people associate with Taekwondo and martial arts in general, even if they only have a passing interest in the subject.  In Songahm Taekwondo, our belts reflect a member's proven level of competence and (just as importantly) the progression of colors reflects an inner journey that never truly ends. Each belt achieved is truly an accomplishment worthy of respect.

It is also worth noting that achieving a belt isn't just a matter of "spending enough time" in a previous belt. In order to achieve their next rank, a student must demonstrate their proficiency in their current belt's techniques, to include Basic Moves, Sparring, and Forms. Each form becomes longer with successively more difficult new techniques.

How do I advance to the next level belt?

Testing is scheduled approximately once every two months. The student’s Head Instructor will determine if the student is eligible to test. Students must have 3 stripes on their belt from in-class testing of their rank's material, and attend a minimum number of regular classes and sparring classes (Camo Belt and above).  Not all students are eligible every testing cycle, especially at the higher belt levels.  The test will require demonstrating your current form.  Lower level color belts must also demonstrate their “one steps”.  Higher level color belts must demonstrate sparring and their “sparring segments". Higher level color belts are also responsible for forms from their previous color belts.

Self defense techniques are taught for each belt level. The student must also demonstrate proficiency in these techniques.

Generally there will be three judges at each testing. The judges will individually score your test results. The sum of the three judges will determine whether a student passes to the next belt level, or receives a “no change”.  Higher level color belts are required to complete board breaks. Failure to successfully complete the board breaks will result in a “no change”.

How long will it take me to earn my Black Belt?

The Black Belt in Taekwondo is symbolic of an advanced level of skill as well as above average physical, mental, and emotional strength.  The length of study necessary to attain a Black Belt varies depending on one's effort and dedication.  Dedicated students may earn their "Black Belt" within three years. To achieve Black Belt requires consistent class attendance, sustained and committed effort, and a "Black Belt" attitude. Since each student progresses at his or her own ability and rate, some students may require additional time.  Black Belt levels also have minimum age requirements.

The journey to "Black Belt" is as important as the destination itself. The student must first complete the ATA Family Martial Arts' "9-Steps to Black Belt" curriculum. The student must also demonstrate proficiency at the "Black Belt" level, including mastery of all color belt forms, "one steps", self-defense techniques, and sparring segments.

Once the Head Instructor approves, the student must pass a final test, including forms, sparring, and board breaks. The Black Belt candidate must also demonstrate proficiency with at least one weapon selected by the student and Head Instructor.

Does your school particpate in tournaments and competitions?

Yes, ATA Family Martial Art students may particpate in regional, national, and international competitions.  Our Region-109 hosts four local tournaments each year.  There are also two or three National tournaments and one World Champiionship tournament each year.  Regular tournament participation is not required, but ATA Family Martial Arts believes these tournaments offer an exciting opportunity for those students interested in particpating and reaching "the next level" of proficiency.  As part of the American Taekwondo Association, students interested in competing may earn State, National, and World Championship titles.

Do I have to sign a long term contract?

No long term contract is required for the “Standard Program” or "Black Belt Club".  Students are encouraged to enter the "Black Belt Club" or "Leadership" Program once entering their "Intermediate" belt levels. The "Intermediate" and "Advanced" belt levels generally require more than the "Standard" program's twice a week attendance to advance on a regular 8 to 10 week testing cycle.  ATA Family Martial Arts offers month-to-month payment plans, as well as lower monthly tuition, longer term contracts.

How much are your tuition or membership fees? 

Because ATA Family Martial Arts offers multiple payment plans and programs, we do not discuss tuition fees over the phone or the internet.  If you are serious about becoming a student at ATA Family Martial Arts, please call and set up an appointment to meet with one of our Black Belt nationally certified instructors and for a free introductory lesson.  The Black Belt instructors or Office Manager can then discuss the available programs and costs. 

Beware of martial arts schools offering short term trial memberships or training at extremely low prices.  We believe that ATA Family Martial Arts offers a unique value for a superior and time proven program of traditional martial arts, weapons, self-defense, life skills, leadership classes, instructor training, and physical fitness.

What if I am not sure?

We currently offer a $49 introductory, no obligation, 4-week membership (with free uniform)! What do you have to lose? We often offer longer trial membership during promotional periods and membership drives. Please stop by and meet with us to find out what’s new!


How do we get started?

Please contact our office at (970)-282-3737 or atafma@comcast.net . We will schedule an introductory meeting and lesson. We will review and discuss your child’s or your personal objectives and determine how the ATA and our programs can best serve you.