1. How does Taekwondo compare to other martial arts?

Taekwondo is a martial art that originated in Korea.  It emphasizes kicking techniques more than other styles do. In our classes you will learn hand strikes and blocks, a variety of kicks, as well as how to spar using full protective gear.

2. At what age can my child start taking classes?

We accept children starting at age 5.  In our classes we emphasize the ability to focus and pay attention, following instructions, listening skills and an independent work ethic.  Please call so we can set up a free trial lesson to determine when your child can start taking classes.

3. Do you offer classes for adults or families?

Our classes are open to adults of all ages.  We have many family members attending the program – fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, sisters and brothers  all take classes here, and we are looking for grandparents to join as well.  We offer a variety of family classes where you can take classes with other family  members.  Please see our schedule for more details and ask us about our family discounts.

4. How can I figure out if this is what I or my child wants to do?

You can come in and observe a class.  Please just call ahead so we know that you are coming and can be available to answer any questions that you may have.  You can also schedule a 10-15 min free trial lesson where we will go through some basic techniques and see if this is something that you or your child would enjoy doing.

5. How often do members attend classes?

Our Introductory Program allows students to take either 2 In Person classes per week or up to 9 classes per month.  Most students will attend class 2 times per week.

6. How long does it take to earn a Black Belt?

While we understand that for many people getting a Black Belt is the primary goal of a martial arts school, at our school we focus much more on making sure that the student is proficient in all areas before they test for their black belt.  Children are held to the same standards as adults in our school.  They pass the same tests and learn the same techniques. On average it takes most people 3 1/2 – 5 years to get their Black Belt.

7. Will Taekwondo make my child more aggressive?

We focus on and reward students who exhibit self-control whenever they are practicing striking and kicking techniques as well as  Sparring.  The goal of our program is to increase self confidence and self control.  We emphasize and explain to the children that the skills that they learn in our program are only used as a last resort and are never to be used to bully or intimidate other children.

8. How will I or my child benefit from joining your school?

Adults: Adults who join the program find that their flexibility and stamina increase. For some it has helped them with weight loss. They also say that taking classes helps to reduce the stresses from their daily life.  For many it increases their self-confidence.  We also offer a Teen Leadership Program for 14 years and up where teens can develop their leadership potential.

Children: Children develop their flexibility, increase their stamina and grow stronger.  More importantly their ability to focus and pay attention increases.  We also emphasize respect at the school and at home.  We offer a Youth Leadership Program to encourage children to learn how to lead others by serving as role models and helping to teach younger students.

9.  Why should I choose Jae H. Kim Taekwondo Institute?

Jae H. Kim Taekwondo Institute has been in business for over 45 years now. Grandmaster Kim received personal training from General Choi, the acknowledged founder of modern day Taekwondo.  His international network of schools has grown to 46. The Institute was awarded “World School of the Year” by Mookas Media, and Mr. Kim has been awarded “Grandmaster of the Year”, and most recently “Living Culture Treasure”, by the TKD Times.

The system that is used at all of the Branch schools is the same one used by Mr. Kim at the Boston Headquarters.  All of our Instructors are trained by Grandmaster Kim, with Managing Instructors being certified as well.  All Black Belt certificates are officially awarded by Mr. Kim.

10. How do I sign up?

You can call us at 508-872-2400 and schedule a time to come in, observe a class, take a free 15 minute trial lesson, and have all of your other questions answered before you register.