World Taekwondo Academy

The WTA was first established in Korea by Grandmaster Lee in 1973 in South Korea. In 1989, after migrating to the United States, he opened the first WTA in Olney, Maryland. Five years later the second WTA was opened in Gaithersburg, Maryland under the leadership of Master Joon Lee. Over the years, more than 4000 students trained at the WTA.

Our Schools practice in traditional ways which include both physical and mental training. We believe true martial arts training must integrate both body and mind.

If you believe in traditional values such as respect, discipline and perseverance, you will find our programs suitable for you.

Grand Master Lee, Woon Se - Grandmaster Lee is a 9th Degree Black with over 50 years of experience in the Martial Arts. Not only was Grandmaster Lee a Korean National Champion for 5 years, he was also an Olympic Team Head Coach, and he also coached 5 different national teams. He continues to practice his art and still teaches and coaches with full vigor at the Olney location.

Master Joon Lee - Master Lee is a 6th Degree Black Belt and has over 28 years of experience in the art of Taekwondo. He is the head instructor for the Gaithersburg school. Not only has he become an excellent martial artist in his own right and great teacher like his father, he also spends his time influencing youth as a positive role model by teaching Physical Education for the Montgomery Public Schools.

What is Taekwondo?
The word “Taekwondo” is actually made up of 3 Korean words. Tae - which means "to kick" or "foot", Kwon - which means "to punch" or "fist" and Do - which means "art" or "way". Loosely translated, it is the art of kicking and punching or "the way of foot and fist". The word Do in Korean also has a philosophical connotation, which briefly stated as "way of life" or the path to enlightenment.

Technically speaking, TKD is a Korean Martial Art in which 2 people practice methods of unarmed fighting or 1 person can exercise for physical fitness and self-defense. Although it is often practiced as a sport or a form of aerobic exercise in modern days, a true TKD practitioner applies the purpose of the art -- which is to develop oneself physically, mentally, and spiritually -- to all aspects of life.

The Taekwondo philosophy aims to gain an understanding of love, kindness, and compassion. It hopes to achieve control of one's body, mind, and spirit, and to obtain superior character.

Taekwondo is a way of life; a way of living far above the ordinary; a way of victory over and freedom from our weaknesses; a way of living in strength and peace with a positive direction for our future.

Taekwondo is for everyone! Everyone and anyone will reap rewards from Taekwondo practice. Children develop concentration and confidence, which help them in school. Teens experience a sense of pride in them to stand up for what is right, even when faced with conflicting moral values, temptations, and peer pressure. Adults find that Taekwondo allows them to advance at their own pace, handle daily stress, and feel years younger. Everyone sets his or her own personal goals of achievement in order to become a well developed, graceful, and fulfilled individual.

What are the special benefits of Taekwondo Training?
Physically, you will be healthier and stronger than ever, plus you will learn valuable practical self-defense, In addition, Taekwondo training will help you with flexibility, coordination, cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, muscular strength, power, reaction time, speed, and more. A strong body builds a strong mind. Mentally, you will build your inner strength and become a more disciplined, powerful and confident individual. A positive mental attitude provides the best ideas for self-improvement. Philosophically, you will create, set and strive to achieve goals. Through achieving yours goals, you will increase your self-respect and lead a more productive and peaceful life. This self motivation program will help you get good grades in school, succeed in your job, develop better social relationships, and be more happy in your daily life.

The World Taekwondo Academy is very proud to be recognized and affiliated with the World Taekwondo Federation(WTF) in South Korea which is the sole organization governing the sport of Taekwondo at the Olympic games. All students at the WTA will receive accreditation and certification from both the WTA and the WTF. WTF black belt certificates are recognized in over 180 countries currently. Also only World Taekwondo Federation certified black belts can participate in Summer Olympics

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