Tiger Kim’s Academy since 1976, has incorporated the three major Korean martial arts of Taekwondo, Tang Soo Do and Hapkido. Founded by Grandmaster Tiger Kim, the school reflects his many years of diverse martial arts training.
Taekwondo and Tang Soo Do are the main components and the primary focus at Tiger Kim’s which certifies black belts throughout the world from its headquarters in Seoul, Korea (The Kukkiwon). Literally, Taekwondo means “the way of the foot and the hand”. The History and Traditions of Taekwondo can be traced back into ancient times in Korea. Many of the long-standing traditions are still upheld at Tiger Kim’s Academy. At this academy, students learn various forms (Poom Sae) from the arts of Taekwondo and Tang Soo Do. They also learn self-defense and sparring techniques which are practiced with a partner. During Taekwondo class, each student wears a white uniform (Do Bok) with the belt of their rank. Beyond the physical techniques, students also learn the traditions of respect and discipline.
Taekwondo Promotion Rank Testing is held every three months (March, June, September and December) normally the first week of the month. Testing gives the students the opportunity to increase their rank by performing physical techniques, and demonstrating knowledge via a written and or oral test. Testing is not only to increase rank, it is also a learning experience designed to increase the students’ knowledge. With dedication, perseverance and commitment towards one’s goal and becoming a Black Belt can be earned within two and a half years by an average student.
Physical fitness and knowledge of self-defense are only part of the rewards of be coming a Black Belt. One also learns confidence, discipline and self-control. A well-trained martial artist does not use his skill carelessly or out of fear, but instead uses it only when he or she has no other choice. Resolving a situation without conflict is the highest of ideals and achievements.
Taekwondo is an Official Olympic sport with competitors in over 200 countries. It is recognized by the United States Taekwondo, United States Olympic and International Olympic Committee. Taekwondo as a sport is a very demanding, competitors must still observe the traditions of respect, self-control and good sportsmanship.
Tang Soo Do is another part of Tiger Kim’s Academy, many of the techniques and philosophies of Tang Soo Do are the same as those of Taekwondo. Tang Soo Do training also involves the practice of various weapons for increased concentration, exercise and use in competitions and demonstrations. For this reason, Black Belts trained by Grandmaster Tiger Kim and Master Tiger Kim are qualified as Black Belts by the Tiger Kim’s Academy, World Taekwondo Federation, Kukkiwon in Seoul, Korea and the World Taekwondo Moo Duk Gwon. Hapkido is also taught as part of Tiger Kim’s Academy curriculum. Hapkido is taught as a self defense when you cannot kick or when you’re being grabbed. Hapkido incorporates Taekwondo techniques as well as Taekwondo blocks, strikes and kicks. The Hapkido arsenal includes grabbing, throwing, falling, jumping, and joint locking techniques.
During class, students wear white uniforms. Black Belt Instructors deserve a level high of respect as Instructors are 4th Dan and higher also training over ten years before they can teach a class.
One of our primary goals at Tiger Kim’s Academy is to contribute to the development and growth of our local community. We achieve this by offering enrichment classes for public schools in Denver, CO. Our expert instructors work closely with school administrators and teachers to create customized martial arts programs that not only promote physical fitness, but also teach important life skills such as discipline, respect, and perseverance. These classes are also taught on site during and after school on select days, so please check with your school for days and times.
If you’re new to martial arts or unsure which discipline is the right fit for you or your child, our 1-2 week introductory program is the perfect place to start. This program provides a comprehensive overview of our various martial arts offerings, giving you a taste of what to expect and helping you make an informed decision about your martial arts journey. Our friendly and experienced instructors will be there every step of the way to guide you and answer any questions you may have. Our introductory program also includes an official Tiger Kim uniform and unlimited classes, so you may determine how much training you would like to continue with.
Taekwondo is a dynamic and exciting martial art that focuses on high, fast kicks and fluid movements, and our Taekwondo classes are designed to help students of all ages develop physical strength, improve coordination, and enhance flexibility. Through dedicated practice and training, students will also cultivate important life skills such as self-discipline, focus, and perseverance. Taekwondo at Tiger Kim’s Academy is suitable for both beginners and advanced practitioners, ensuring that everyone can benefit from this empowering martial art.
For those seeking a more traditional martial arts experience, our Tang Soo Do classes are the perfect fit. Tang Soo Do emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and spirit, promoting harmony and inner peace. Through dedicated training, students will not only enhance their physical strength and self-defense skills, but also develop a deeper understanding of traditional martial arts values such as respect, integrity, and humility. Our experienced instructors ensure that each student receives personalized attention and guidance throughout their Tang Soo Do journey.
Hapkido is a versatile and practical martial art that focuses on self-defense techniques suitable for real-life situations. Our Hapkido classes teach students how to effectively defend themselves using a combination of strikes, joint locks, and throws. With an emphasis on redirecting an attacker’s energy, students learn how to neutralize threats quickly and efficiently. Hapkido is suitable for individuals of all ages and fitness levels, helping them develop confidence, situational awareness, and self-assurance.
For those looking to take their martial arts skills to the next level, our Muay Thai kickboxing and mixed martial arts (MMA) classes provide a comprehensive and intense training experience. As featured in the original Ultimate Fighting Championships and UFC, our professional instructors combine various martial arts discipline to create a well-rounded, full-contact and highly effective MMA training program. So whether you have aspirations of becoming a champion, or you simply want to challenge yourself physically and mentally, our MMA classes will help you push your limits and achieve your goals.
At Tiger Kim’s Academy, we believe that everyone deserves to feel safe and confident in any situation. With that in mind, our women’s self-defense classes are specifically designed to teach effective techniques that can be used to protect oneself in real-life scenarios. With a focus on situational awareness, verbal de-escalation, and physical self-defense techniques, our classes provide a safe and supportive environment for women to develop essential skills, boost self-esteem, and cultivate a sense of empowerment.
This class is held from 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM on the first Sunday of each month (except when a holiday is present, then class will be on the following Sunday). We also collect a $5 donation for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation every month, as well.
Looking for a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate your child’s birthday? Look no further than Tiger Kim’s Academy! Our exciting and action-packed birthday parties are sure to be a hit with children of all ages. Our parties last for an hour and a half, and they include invitations, pizzas, a birthday cake, candles, tables, chairs, plates, cups, napkins, utensils, goodie bags, and the best part: a special class with Tiger Kim’s instructors for 40 mins. We can cater to your special request, as well, and we also have a bouncing castle, heavy bags, obstacle shapes, flip mats, piñata, and breaking boards available. We can even cater for your adults, too. So whatever the party, we’ll do all the work; you have fun and relax.
For those seeking a platform to showcase their martial arts skills and compete against other practitioners, Tiger Kim’s Academy regularly hosts a tournament every year. These events provide participants with an opportunity to test their skills, gain valuable experience, and form connections with like-minded individuals. Our tournaments are open to students of all ages and skill levels, fostering camaraderie, sportsmanship, and personal growth, and our students will also travel to other tournaments to compete, as well.