TaeKwonDo Classes Near Gallatin, TN
The Korean art of kicking and striking — taught by a 9th Degree Black Belt with over 50 years of experience. Classes for kids, teens, and adults at every skill level.
What Is TaeKwonDo?
TaeKwonDo is a Korean martial art that translates to “the way of the foot and fist.” Developed in the 1940s and 50s by Korean martial artists, it draws from ancient Korean fighting traditions, Chinese martial arts, and Okinawan karate. TaeKwonDo became an official Olympic sport in 2000 and is now practiced by over 80 million people worldwide.
At GMA, we teach traditional TaeKwonDo rooted in the Jidokwan lineage — the “School of Wisdom.” Our program balances the athletic and competitive aspects of modern TaeKwonDo with the discipline, philosophy, and self-defense foundations of the traditional art. Students learn powerful kicks, fast hand techniques, forms (poomsae), sparring, self-defense applications, and board breaking.
Looking for karate classes? TaeKwonDo is the Korean martial art most often compared to Japanese karate. While both share roots in striking, TaeKwonDo places greater emphasis on dynamic kicking techniques, agility, and athletic speed. Many families searching for “karate near me” discover TaeKwonDo offers a more well-rounded approach — combining self-defense, physical fitness, Olympic-level competition, and character development in a single art.
What You’ll Learn
A complete martial arts education — from traditional forms to practical self-defense.
Choreographed sequences of techniques that build muscle memory, balance, and focus. Each belt rank has its own form to master.
Controlled partner drills that develop timing, distance, and quick decision-making. Full protective gear required — safety always comes first.
Practical techniques for real-world situations including releases, counters, and situational awareness. Built into every class.
TaeKwonDo is renowned for powerful, dynamic kicks. Train roundhouse, side, spinning, and jumping kicks alongside hand strikes and blocks.
A milestone at each belt rank. Breaking builds confidence, proves technique, and shows students the power they’ve developed.
Advanced students train with traditional Korean weapons including the bong (staff) and nunchaku, building coordination and discipline.
Who Is TaeKwonDo For?
Everyone. Whether you’re 3 or 63 — a first-timer or a seasoned martial artist — there’s a place for you on the mat.
Fun, structured classes that build coordination, listening skills, and confidence. Learn more →
Anti-bullying, discipline, focus, and physical fitness. Special needs programs available. Safe Sport Certified.
Stress relief, self-defense, fitness, and personal growth. No experience needed — we meet you where you are.
Train together as a family. Multi-family discounts available. Build bonds through shared discipline and achievement.
Your TaeKwonDo Instructors
Certified Master Level instructor. Academy Owner, Academy Director, Master Instructor, and Hyung Demonstrator. Multi-discipline martial artist with deep expertise in Korean combat arts.
Certified Instructor Level. Front Desk Manager and multi-program instructor at GMA. Trains across TaeKwonDo, HapKiDo, and youth programs.
Belt Progression
Every student begins at white belt and works toward black belt through dedicated training, testing, and personal growth.
Minimum 3 months between each rank. Advancement based on curriculum completion, class attendance, and instructor evaluation — not just time. Detailed belt rank requirements and black belt degree information available on our blog.
Flexible Plans For Every Budget
Depending on program length and number of classes per week
What Families Are Saying
“The boys moved up a belt. They love it. It is good to see them have something that teaches them responsibility, respect and confidence. When an instructor comes to you and tells you that you have awesome boys — it makes you see that you are doing something right as a parent.”
“We love GMA! Best decision I’ve made for my son. He loves Taekwondo and Master Davis! You become part of the GMA family when you join.”
TaeKwonDo FAQ
Both are striking-based martial arts, but TaeKwonDo is Korean and places much greater emphasis on dynamic kicking techniques, agility, and athletic speed. Karate is Japanese and tends to focus more on hand strikes and close-range power. TaeKwonDo is also an Olympic sport with a structured competition pathway. Many families searching for karate classes find TaeKwonDo offers a broader training experience.
We accept students as young as 3 years old in our Little Lions program. Kids ages 3–6 learn through fun, structured activities that build coordination, listening skills, and confidence. Older kids and teens train in age-appropriate classes with a focus on discipline, anti-bullying, and personal development. We also offer specialized programs for children with special needs.
The typical path to 1st Degree Black Belt takes 3.5 to 4 years of consistent training. Students progress through white, yellow, green, blue, red, and bo (red/black) belt ranks — each requiring a minimum of 3 months. Advancement is based on curriculum completion, class attendance, and instructor evaluation, not just time spent.
None at all. Most of our students start with zero martial arts background. Our instructors are experienced at working with complete beginners — they’ll guide you through everything from basic stances to your first kick. Just wear comfortable clothes to your free trial class and we’ll handle the rest.
Absolutely. TaeKwonDo is a full-body workout that builds cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, core strength, and coordination. A typical class burns 500–800 calories. Unlike a gym routine, you’re learning a skill — which keeps you motivated and coming back. Many adult students report significant improvements in fitness, stress management, and overall well-being within the first few months.
Ready to Try TaeKwonDo?
Your first class is free — no commitment, no pressure. Just show up ready to move and our instructors will take it from there.
509 Garnet Ct, Suite 100, Gallatin, TN 37066
info@gmagallatin.com · Walk-ins welcome