Palo Alto Martial Arts offers classes for students of various age groups and skill levels. For those just starting out, we stress a traditional style of taekwondo based on the standards of the taekwondo headquarters — Kukkiwon. This traditional style builds strong self-discipline, teaches respect and obedience, and provides a great foundation for our students to begin their martial art journeys.

At the intermediate level, we begin introducing our students to Olympic style taekwondo. Olympic (or World Taekwondo Federation) style is similar to traditional style taekwondo. However, Olympic style taekwondo is more dynamic due to the addition of advanced footwork and the emphasis on speed. At this level, students will learn more advanced footwork, build greater agility, and gain greater flexibility.

When one becomes adept in both the traditional Kukkiwon and the World Taekwondo Federation styles, that student is welcome to join the advanced class. Here, creativity is stressed as students learn to take elements from both styles and combine them into an open style. This process allows students to gain a better understanding of the differences and similarities of both traditional and Olympic styles. For the truly advanced, concepts and techniques from other styles of martial arts are incorporated. These include: Hapkido Self-defense skills and weapons such as knives, Knunchaku, and escrima sticks.

Palo Alto Martial Arts’ children’s program start from ages 4– 6 years old. Your child will excel through our unique and comprehensive training at Palo Alto Martial Arts. Your child will excel through our unique and comprehensive training at Palo Alto Martial Arts. Weaved throughout our age appropriate programs, your child will not only excel in the art of Taekwondo, but will also gain the fortitude it takes to persevere through life. Our martial arts program will help your child attain the respect, confidence, discipline and the perseverance it takes to become a winner in life.

Children’s Program (ages 7-12):  At this stage in life, it is important for children to adequately grow both mentally and physically. Through practicing Tae Kwon Do techniques, such as kicking, punching, and self-defense, your child will walk out of our doors a more confident and respectful individual. Your child will have inherent skills to protect themselves and will benefit from a stronger body, mind, and spirit.