Frequently Asked Questions

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that emphasizes kicking techniques, but also includes hand strikes, blocks, and throws.

Taekwondo is known for its emphasis on kicking techniques, but also includes hand strikes, blocks, and throws. It also places a strong emphasis on sparring and competition.

The time it takes to earn a black belt in Taekwondo varies depending on the individual's dedication and training frequency, but typically takes 3-5 years.

Yes! Transfers from other martial arts schools may join one of our programs. We only recognize Kukkiwon certified black belts and poom belts (i.e. junior black belt). If you are not Kukkiwon certified, you will be assessed for appropriate belt placement. All color belt transfers regardless of school affiliation will be assessed for appropriate belt and class placement. Testing fees may apply.  

The average cost for an individual student to start Taekwondo lessons is $200. This includes the first month's tuition, the required uniform, and initial registration fee. An HPITKD staff member will give you an exact start-up price at your first trial lesson.

No, we do not, but we do offer discounts for multiple family members, early tuition payment with cash or check, good grades, and new family referrals. Our instructors volunteer their time to teach classes, and coach or referee at competitions. We price our programs to be as affordable and as accessible as possible for members of our local community.

Our institute is a family owned business that operates at cost. A method of payment is required to be on file for all student accounts. This ensures that tuition is paid on time, and the doors stay open and the lights stay on for all students. 

It also demonstrates every family's commitment to directly investing in their community and modeling important values such as discipline, integrity, and mutual respect.

Children as young as 3 years old can start learning Taekwondo. However, classes for young children may focus more on basic movements and games to develop coordination and balance.

The High Performance Institute of Taekwondo offers classes for students as young as 2.5 years old and has no upper age limit. Our oldest white belt was 93 years old. You are never too old to start learning Taekwondo!

Students should wear comfortable athletic clothing, such as a t-shirt and athletic pants, and non-slip socks or clean bare feet.

Yes, Taekwondo is a great form of exercise that can improve cardiovascular health, coordination, flexibility, and strength.

Practicing Taekwondo can improve physical fitness, mental discipline, self-defense skills, confidence, and focus.

Taekwondo originated in Korea and was developed during the 1940s and 1950s by Korean martial artists. It was officially recognized as an Olympic sport in the year 2000.

Yes, Taekwondo is a competitive sport that is included in the Olympic Games. Competitions can be sparring or forms (also known as poomsae).

Sparring is a form of training where students practice Taekwondo techniques in a simulated combat situation.

St. Andrew Kim Tae-gon is the patron saint we have adopted for our dojang. He was born on August  21st, 1821, in Chungchong Province, Korea. His parents, being converts to Catholicism, were subject to persecution. At 15 years old, Kim Tae-gon was chosen by a visiting priest to be a seminarian, and was sent to Macao. He arrived in 1837 and began his studies. He was ordained a deacon in China in 1844 and managed to return to Korea the next year, arriving in Seoul early in 1845. In Shanghai, he was ordained the first Korean priest in the Church’s 60-year history in Korea. In his home town and vicinity, he catechized the faithful. At the Bishop's command, he tried to introduce French missionaries from China into Korea, enlisting the aid of Chinese fishermen. For this, Father Kim Tae-gon was arrested and sent to the central prison in Seoul, where he was charged as the ringleader of a heretical sect and traitor to his country. He was sentenced to death and was beheaded on 16 September 1846. St. Andrew Kim Tae-Gon was faithful to his beliefs and mission unto death. He and many Korean martyrs endured unspeakable persecutions and died willingly for their faith. +St. Andrew Kim Tae-Gon, Ora Pro Nobis.+ (Sources cited: EWTN)