Why Choose the CTI

 By Caleb Feagans, CTI Instructor

Like my own personal experience, parents and families often begin their search for martial arts schools for their kids or themselves by searching the web for ‘karate schools’. When my family and I first started to search for karate schools near us, none really stood out and impressed us; however, we did find the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI), which has continued to impress us for 14 years and counting.  But why should you consider Taekwondo? And why should you consider the Colorado Taekwondo Institute over other Taekwondo schools? CTI not only teaches students the art of Taekwondo but the rich history of Korea. Not only will you be learning valuable self-defense techniques and sparring, but you see through demonstration how integrity, respect, courtesy for others, and self-control skills reinforce a well-rounded martial arts student and overall better person.

When my family and I started, we had no idea what Taekwondo was or what the difference was between Karate and Kung-Fu or why I should ever try it over the other two martial arts, but I soon learned why Taekwondo, especially at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is so special. Although Karate and Kung Fu are similar to Taekwondo, the Korean martial art focuses more on kicking and leg techniques than the other two martial arts which emphasize the use of hand techniques.  After all, the definition of Taekwondo is the Korean art of smashing with the bare feet and hands. Taekwondo still utilizes several hand techniques but the hands are less emphasized in the Taekwondo basics and sparring. 

The classes offered at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute are taught by instructors with years of experience and training.  There are classes from ages 2 and up at a variety of locations around the state of Colorado and the CTI caters to all ages when teaching and there is something that all ages groups can learn by participating in CTI classes. Tiger classes (ages 2-4) focus on basic listening and motor skills and is a great release of energy. The junior classes (ages 5-11) are a great way for kids to start exercising regularly and help boost their confidence as they remain healthy! Teen (ages 12-15) and adults (ages 16 and up) begin a goal-oriented program that helps them learn the basics of self-defense and fitness. The CTI’s classes are structured the same regardless of what campus students attend classes and most other schools do not have a “backbone” basics routine quite like the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. 

The CTI was founded in 1983, and they continue to teach and accept new students every day for the past 37 years and there is no sign of stopping anytime soon.  So the next time you consider searching for any Karate schools near your location, consider stopping in at the CTI and see how Taekwondo can help you not only get in shape and learn self-defense, but be a better student at school, a better employee, and a better person.

2020 CTI Online Championships - Lower Belt Results!

 212 MSK MARTIAL ARTISTS TOOK PART IN OUR TWO DAY ONLINE CHAMPIONSHIPS

The second day of our 2020 CTI Online Championships featured Moo Sul Kwan blue, green, orange, yellow and white belts in competitions like, Poomse, One-Step Sparring, Target Kicking and more.

The day began at 7:30 AM with the 99 separate divisions ending at 1:30 PM.  There were competitors of all ages doing a fantastic job at their own home locations.  Our top CTI / AMASEA/ MSK Judges assembled at the Green Mountain Campus, Headquarters of the CTI, wearing masks and safely distanced from each other.

What was remarkable about the day was how good the competitors looked.  Consistent training and focus on the special competitions of this CTI Online Champs helped our students improve markedly.

Here are the results of Day 2 - 2020 CTI Online Championships:

Poomse

1st place
Ace Ashworth, Joe Carroll, Shiven Venkat, Vanessa Tao, Brody Mitchell, Brandon Brech, Gregory Smagala, Ryan Marine, Landon Adams, Logan Sorenson,  Lily Lloyd, Joel Hall, Cooper Curry, Ellie Pechon, Emma Burden, Zachary Palmer, Henry Lewis, Molly Dugan, Kaleb Guffey, Hannah Holmes, Alex Kirt, Rebekkah Copel, Amy Daly, Hank Haubner

2nd place
Dale Sanders, Janet Caminada, Landon Sidley-Mercado, Diego Quesada, Brandon Kirt,  Charlie Booten, Lucas Brown, Abby Booten, Stryder Martin, Grace Quinones, Eddie Garner, Ace Garcia, Connor Burgin, Jaxson Hipsher, Rue Weerapura, Ava Alvarado, Grace Becker, Aarush Venkat, Abdo Badanagi, Keira Sherman, Selah Hall, Jacob Scott, Ibenez Mangines, Kayla Romero, Nolan Shidemantle

3rd place
Meredith Botnick, Juan Verni, Keatyn Adams, Jennifer Kautz, , Oliver Shultz, Akshay Chauhan, Tristyn Cvanciger, Eli Quinones, Wyatt Stone, Kellan Barnett, Chase Gentry, Clara Carlson, Regan Lamkin, Freya Brown, Ella Laird, Logan Martin, Coen Cooley, Garritt Stone, Josie Landis, Oliver Garner, Ronan Hayden, Shayla Mannering, Joshua Ranjit

One-Step Sparring

1st place
Meredith Botnick, Joe Carroll, Landon Sidley-Mercado, Diego Quesada,  Joel Hall, Hank Haubner, Shayla Mannering

2nd place
Dale Sanders, Juan Verni, Shiven Venkat, Vanessa Tao, Ace Garcia, Jason Ranjit, Amy Daly

3rd place
Ace Ashworth, Janet Caminada, Keatyn Adams, Jennifer Kautz, Nolan Shidemantle, Kayla Romero

Shadow Sparring

1st place
Joe Carroll, Carlos Ramirez, Shiven Venkat, Diego Quesada, Brandon Kirt, Akshay Chauhan, Zachary Cotner, Eli Quinones, Wyatt Stone, Grace Quinones, Lily Lloyd, Ace Garcia, Clara Carlson, Ellie Pechon, Keira Haubner, Zachary Palmer,  Drake Ferguson, Landon Adams, Abdo Badanagi, Luna Garcia, Dylan Rodgers, Selah Hall, Lorianna Schulte, Shayla Mannering, Jacob Scott

2nd place
Juan Verni, Janet Caminada, Keatyn Adams, Vanessa Tao, Brody Mitchell, Brandon Brech, Tristyn Cvanciger, Lindy Mandelbaum, Stryder Martin, Logan Sorenson, Chase Gentry, Joel Hall, Ronin Reed, Jaxson Hipsher, Emma Burden, Ava Alvarado, Henry Lewis, Molly Dugan, Garritt Stone, Zoe Economou, Meredith Botnick, Kensley Morris, Aidan Shidemantle, Amy Daly, Rebekkah Copel

3rd place
Carrie Booten, Melissa Kautz, Landon Sidley-Mercado, Jennifer Kautz, Jackson Babcock, Charlie Booten, Lucas Brown, Ryan Marine, Landon Adams, Kellan Barnett, Eddie Garner, Cooper Curry, Regan Lamkin, Freya Brown, Ella Laird, Grace Becker, Aarush Venkat, Kaleb Guffey, Josie Landis, Justin Gann, Alex Kirt, Joshua Ranjit, Kayla Romero, Vera Reed

Taking it to the Target

1st place
Joe Carroll, Janet Caminada, Shivan Venkat, Jenifer Kautz, Oliver Shultz, Charlie Booten, Lucas Brown, Sam Powers, Stryder Martin,  Logan Sorenson, Lily Lloyd, Ace Garcia, Cooper Curry, Regan Lamkin, Rue Weerapura, Ava Alvarado, Logan Martin, Aarush Venkat, Garritt Stone, Josie Landis, Justin Gann, Oliver Garner, Joshua Ranjit, Shayla Mannering, Ronan Hayden

2nd place
Carrie Booten, Melissa Kautz, Keatyn Adams Vanessa Tao, Jackson Babcock, Akshay Chauhan, Zachary Cotner, Abby Booten, Wyatt Stone, Grace Quinones, Caroline Nusbaum, Joel Hall, Ronin Reed, Elli Pechon, Keira Haubner, Zacharay Palmer, Grace Becker, Landon Adams, Kaleb Guffey, Keria Sherman, Dale Sanders, Selah Hall, Hank Haubner, Amy Daly, Rebekkah Copel

3rd place
Juan Verni, Carlos Ramirez, Landon Sidley-Mercado, Diego Quesada, Brandon Kirt, Brandon Brech, Tristyn Cvanciger, Ryan Marine,  Landon Adams, Kellan Barnett, Chase Gentry,  Connor Burgin, Jasxon Hipsher, Emma Burden, Ella Laird, Henry Lewis, Coen Cooley, Abdo Badanagi, Hannah Holmes, Ace Ashworth, Kensley Morris, Lorianna Schulte, Kayla Romero, Vera Reed, Ibenez Mangines

Following Directions

1st place
Brody Mitchell, Charlie Booten, Paxton Barnett, Lindy Mandelbaum, Wyatt Stone,  Kellan Barnett, Chase Gentry,  Cooper Curry, Regan Lamkin, Freya Brown, Ella Laird, Grace Becker, Dean Barrieau, Abdo Badanagi, Keira Sherman, Alex Kirt, Jacob Scott

2nd place
Jackson Babcock, Akshay Chauhan, Lucas Brown, Ryan Marine, Landon Adams, Grace Quinones, Lily Lloyd, Clara Carlson, Ellie Pechon, Emma Burden, Zachary Palmer, Henry Lewis, Molly Dugan, Kaleb Guffey, Josie Landis, Selah Hall, Rebekkah Copel

3rd place
Brandon Kirt, Brandon Brech, Gregory Smagala, Abby Booten, Stryder Martin, Logan Sorenson. Caroline Nusbaum, Ronin Reed, Jaxson Hipsher, Keira Haubner, Ava Alvarado, Logan Martin, Aarush Venkat, Garritt Stone, Hannah Holmes, Rylan Lamkin, Vera Reed

Moo Sul Kwan Martial Arts: Experiences of the New Guy

By Brian O'Reilly

I am new to Moo Sul Kwan martial arts. I’m 50 years old; but I’m not old! Thanks in large part to Moo Sul Kwan Martial Arts!

I have been an athlete for nearly all of my life and involved in a wide range of organized sports, exercise and recreational activities. Participating in sports as a youth is very different than participating as an adult. When you are young, there is so much to learn about your body, your competitive spirit, how to train, and how to interact with opponents, teammates, referees and coaches. I grew up around athletics as my dad was a high school coach for 40 years. I asked my dad at an early age why sports are important for a student athlete who will never be good enough to “go pro” and make a career as a professional athlete. His answer pointed out the obvious physical and mental benefits of exercise for people of all ages. He also stressed the equally important personal and social lessons of learning a skill, consistent hard work, commitment, loyalty, positive interaction with teammates/authority figures, sportsmanship and how to navigate through successes and failures. He pointed out that all of these lessons are available through athletics, especially in a solid program lead by a great coach. He stressed that these are life-lessons and should transfer into adulthood to create the leaders of tomorrow. Adults who never learn these life-lessons struggle personally, professionally and can have a negative impact on society as a whole. Fortunately I have been surrounded by great teachers, coaches, bosses and mentors.  As an adult the life-lessons of athletics continue to ring true and help me grow, physically, mentally and spiritually as a well-rounded person. Moo Sul Kwan martial arts is now my sport of choice as a 50 year old man.

Moderation was never really my thing. My body has paid the price over the years for extreme living. Broken bones are par for the course in any contact sport; but years of heavy weight-lifting and CrossFit programs resulted in various surgeries which eventually slowed me down as an adult. I was unhappy during the recovery/healing times, craved physical activity, and competition. Yet, I was also worried that I would be back under the knife again if I kept up the same extreme and active pace. I had always been fascinated with martial arts classes from afar, so I thought I would give it a try.  There were so many options available it was difficult to choose; but after some in-depth research I joined The Colorado Taekwondo Institute and the study of Moo Sul Kwan martial arts. I was very fortunate to have landed where I did!

Moo Sul Kwan martial arts at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI) was exactly what I needed.  The Colorado Taekwondo Institute was founded by Grandmaster James M. Sautel, 8th Dan Black Belt, in 1983 and there are now several locations throughout the Colorado. CTI works in association with the Moo Sul Kwan martial arts Institute and the American Martial Arts Sports and Education Association.  Moo Sul Kwan martial arts was brought to the United States by Great Grandmaster Lee H. Park in 1969 and serves as the model for training at all Colorado Taekwondo Institute locations.  The CTI mission statement is “To encourage and develop world-class leaders through educational excellence and Moo Sul Kwan martial arts traditions”.  

For the past year and a half, my personal experience with CTI and Moo Sul Kwan martial arts classes training has been in line with the CTI Mission Statement and the life-lessons I have been taught growing up.  The aims of Moo Sul Kwan martial arts, the tenets of Taekwondo and the philosophy, goals and operation of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute complement my lifestyle, goals, ethics, exercise and competitive needs. I enjoy the ability to challenge my body in new ways, and for many years to come, which will lead to healthier longevity without the high-risk of injury.  I also enjoy the mental and emotional challenges related to learning a new discipline and starting out a program as a rookie.  I’m the new old guy!  Starting Moo Sul Kwan martial arts classes as an adult is new experience that teaches humility, patience and perseverance.  I believe that a little suffering in any forum is the requirement for success.  As a 50 year old, that suffering can be more apparent than when you’re an 18 years old athlete!  But that challenge to stay involved, active and fight through the aches and pains has its rewards.  

The rewarding and positive experience of Moo Sul Kwan martial arts at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is more than physical.  The bonding and team support with fellow students, support by upper-belt students and Black Belt instructors is a mental and emotional reward by itself.  Most prominent though is the inspirational guidance, instruction and care provided by Grandmaster Sautel.  I am fortunate to have found Moo Sul Kwan martial arts, which provides comprehensive Psychomotor Domain, Affective Domain and Cognitive Domain training, knowledge and self-defense skills. I am fortunate to have found The Colorado Taekwondo Institute, which honors the traditions of Moo Sul Kwan martial arts while providing a positive and exciting modern-day forum for training, learning and competition.  I am very fortunate to be surrounded by supportive CTI Students and Instructors…and I cannot say enough about how lucky I am to study under CTI founder Grandmaster Sautel.  I’ve added him to my very short, selective and influential list of heroes. In talking to fellow students I know that I’m not alone as he inspires so many others at CTI.  I am always happy to have the opportunity to share my positive experience with others, especially those with similar backgrounds and needs.  CTI and Moo Sul Kwan martial arts have provided everything I was looking for and I’m excited to continue my training for many years to come.

Taekwondo for Toddlers!

Martial arts is the perfect sport for kids, providing a valuable, positive outlet for their energetic selves.  When looking for taekwondo or karate classes for toddlers, it's important to find a quality program that will give the most to your children. That's why we highly recommend Taekwondo for toddlers at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. 

Kids love working out with Taekwondo black belt instructors and fellow students in great martial arts classrooms with padded floors and master instructors.  All ages of kids can join us at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute!  No matter when a child starts Taekwondo, they can experience the benefits of Taekwondo. In fact, some black belts of today started when they were as young as three years old. It's great to think at one point there was a parent like you looking for karate classes for 3 year olds, and years later they are the proud parent of a Moo Sul Kwan black belt. No matter what age a kid is, they can enjoy Taekwondo at CTI, where classes are offered throughout the week for all ages.

Taekwondo is a great source of exercise for kids. Classes last 30 minutes for “tigers” (the youngest students) and an hour for older kids.  In both, kids get to exercise and have fun, both in a great Taekwondo environment.  Not only do kids have a chance to exercise in CTI Taekwondo classes, but they also improve their mind-body coordination and even learn about the science behind how the body works and how that affects Taekwondo moves.  There are workouts in Taekwondo classes at CTI for all parts of the body.

The benefits of CTI Taekwondo for kids are enormous. Besides being a good outlet for energy, Taekwondo classes also provide mental exercise.  As kids learn blocks, kicks, punches, and other techniques in Taekwondo classes, they improve memory, coordination, and patience, along with other mental skills.  Taekwondo is one of the best sports that include both physical exercise and mental excellence in its training.  While kids in Taekwondo classes are physically exercising, they are also learning discipline and attention skills.  The Taekwondo teachings at CTI is meant to include both the body and mind.

Whenever kids start karate classes for toddlers, they can enjoy the fun classes, physical exercise, and learning that comes with it.  All the black belt instructors at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute have had years of Taekwondo experience and are great with kids.  No matter the age, kids who join Taekwondo fall in love with the classes, learning, exercise, and experience.  They can even become black belt instructors themselves with time and practice.  All kids (and adults) who do Taekwondo enjoy it and learn every time they step into the classroom.

2020 CTI Online Championships - Upper Belt Results!

MSK COMPETITION ONLINE FOR THE FIRST TIME!

The first day of our 2020 CTI Online Championships took place on Saturday, September 26!

Next, on October 10th, the blue, green, orange, yellow and white belts of all ages are up for competitions!

This first of two days of our inaugural online Moo Sul Kwan Martial Arts competitions saw purple, brown, red and black belts in 74 online divisions involving action in Poomse, One-Step Sparring, Shadow Sparring, and Taking it to the Target.  Black belts also competed in staff technique.   

Online Moo Sul Kwan judges included grandmaster and master instructors:  Mindy Sautel, 7th, John Sautel, 7th, Erik Albrechtson, 6th, Fred Sautel, 5th, Alice Meyung, 5th and Clayton Garner, 5th.  Regional Directors judging were Andy McDaniel, 4th, Nick Slinkard, 4th and Abdu Kikhia, 4th.  Chief instructors judging were Hope Morgan, 3rd, Eileen Lindner, 3rd, Tyler Murphy, 3rd, Don Johnson, 3rd, Peyton Brauch, 3rd, Mark Scott, 3rd and Caleb Feagans, 2nd.  The online championships was presented by Grandmaster James M. Sautel, 8th dan.

This was the very first time MSK competitions have taken place online and everyone did an outstanding job.  Special thanks to each competitor and judge for making this historic day such a success!

Here are the upper belt results on our 2020 CTI Online Champs:

Poomse

1st place
Andy McDaniel, Katie Dahle, Sean Huntley, Gillian Boswell, Colston Yoder, Khristin Paisley, Owen Robertson, Collin Kreutz, Lindsey Boswell, Katie Minden, Alexis Chavez, Lillian Eichelberger, Marley Griffin, Phineas Hallock, India Ross, Lars den Hartog, Marley Powers

2nd place
Mark Scott, Caleb Feagans, Cody Jacobson, Sarah Dahle, Averie Chavez, Brian O'Reilly, Jasmine Salamera, Kathleen Sautel, Vivi Brown, Garrison Meeks, Jordan Rutz, Thomas Burton, Max Babcock, Toby Palminteri, Mateo Piza, Alex Tan, Nathaniel Parker

3rd place
Eileen Lindner, Keet Holdridge, Mathias Bauer, Abbey Salamera, Quynn Cotner, Alex Schwartz, Nethika Suraweera, Eliseo Bandala, Hope Morgan, Deb Denny, Aidan Sturm, Lily Laird, Sabrina Jensen, Andra Vieru, Lucy Paisley, Miette Jandreau, Kayla Albrechtson, Ellie Smagala

One - Step Sparring

1st place
Collin Kreutz, Eileen Lindner, Caleb Feagans, Konner Evans, Lindsey Boswell, Marely Powers, Lars den Hartog, India Ross, Mathias Bauer, Phineas Hallock, Andra Vieru, Thomas Burden, Lily Laird, Aidan Sturm, Owen Robertson, Brian O'Reilly, Averie Chavez, 

2nd place
Nick Slinkard, Mark Scott, Makayla Trapp, Deb Denny, Abbey Salamera, Eleanor Smagala, Ales Tan, Mateo Piza, Cody Jacobson, Toby Palminteri, Max Babcock, Lillian Eichelberger, Evan McEwan, Katie Minden, Jasmine Salamera, Khristin Paisley, Caiden Murphy

3rd place
Andy McDaniel, Kathleen Sautel, Katie Dahle, Vivi Brown, Gillian Boswell, Calvin Jensen, Nathaniel Keckler, Caleb Romero, Malachi Romero, Sean Huntley, Lucy Paisley,  Kaylyn McEwan, Sabrina Jensen, Alexis Chavez, Garrison Meeks, Eliseo Bandala, Susan Burgstiner, Quynn Cotner

Shadow Sparring

1st place
Andy McDaniel, Sarah Dahle, Collin Kreutz, Vivi Brown, Caleb Feagans, Mathias Bauer, Colin Palminteri, Brian O'Reilly, Owen Robertson, Katie Minden, Alexis Chavez, Sabrina Jensen, Max Babcock, Phineas Hallock, Evan Zdechlik, Marley Powers, Alex Tan

2nd place
Don Johnson, Gillian Boswell, Kathleen Sautel, Lindsey Boswell, Keet Holdridge, Sean Huntley, Colston Yoder, Khristin Paisley, Christian Lloyd, Lauren Dahlberg, Lily Laird, Thomas Burden, Andra Vieru, Lucy Paisley, Mateo Piza, Nathaniel Keckler, Caleb Romero

3rd place
Mark Scott, Abbey Salamera, Hope Morgan, Deb Denny, Katie Dahle, Lydia Willis, Averie Chavez, Susan Burgstiner, Jasmine Salamera, Garrison Meeks, Evan McEwan, Lillian Eichelberger, Marley Griffin, Toby Palminteri, Malachi Romero, Leto Ochsner, Lars den Hartog

Taking it to the Target

1st place
Don Johnson, Abbey Salamera, Peyton Brauch, Lindsey Boswell, Makayla Trapp, Sean Huntley,  Colin Palminteri, Brian O'Reilly, Eliseo Bandala, Katie Minden, Alexis Chavez, Lillian Eichelberger, Paul Paisley, Lucy Paisley, Mateo Piza, Marley Powers, Lars den Hartog

2nd place
Mark Scott, Konner Evans, Nick Slinkard, Deb Denny, Katie Dahle, Mathias Bauer, Colston Yoder, Nethika Suraweera, Henry Rumpf, Aidan Sturm, Evan McEwan, Thomas Burden, Max Babcock, Phineas Hallock, India Ross, Ellie Smagala, Kayla Albrechtson

3rd place
Eileen Lindner, Sarah Dahle, Hope Morgan, Vivi Brown, Caleb Feagans, Lydia Willis, Averie Chavez, Khristin Paisley, Christian Lloyd, Garrison Meeks, Lily Laird, Sabrina Jensen, Kaylyn McEwan, Toby Palminteri, Miette Jandreau, Ahas Weerapura, Alex Tan

Staff Technique

1st place
Andy McDaniel, Abbey Salamera, Collin Kreutz, Lindsey Boswell, Keet Holdridge, Cody Jacobson

2nd place
Eileen Lindner, Konner Evans, Peyton Brauch, Vivi Brown, Makayla Trapp, Mathias Bauer

3rd place
Mark Scott, Gillian Boswell, Tyler Murphy, Deb Denny, Caleb Feagans, Meryn Probasco

Campus Spotlight: Conifer Campus

If you’re looking for a Conifer martial arts school with a family friendly, disciplined, and exciting environment, look no further than the Conifer location of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI). Located conveniently on US Highway 285, this Conifer martial arts school hosts classes that teach valuable self-defense skills to students of all ages, from toddlers to teens to adults. Like karate and kung fu, taekwondo is a martial art that trains the body and mind to improve ourselves and achieve goals. 

Martial arts, unlike many other sports, is an individual sport. Practicing karate and taekwondo is self-directed and self-motivated training. Traditional taekwondo, which is taught at the CTI, is a martial art similar to karate and kung fu. As a student, we better ourselves with the self-defense and education provided by this Conifer taekwondo school. This allows us to set our own goals to accomplish with this martial arts training. For instance, a teen might be interested in the focus martial arts training provides and applying that to school. An adult may be interested in losing weight and setting a goal for getting in shape using martial arts. Even a toddler will see the benefit of setting a goal like getting their next belt and the satisfaction achieving that goal brings. 

There are choices out there for martial arts, but the CTI Conifer martial arts school is a step above the rest. At the CTI students are encouraged to do more than just exercise in their regular classes, such as monthly homework and written tests for each belt. This keeps the martial arts frame of mind present in all part of our lives, so we can achieve any goals we have. The self-confidence and self-defense taught by our outstanding group of black belt instructors will allow anyone, to become a better version of themselves. 

Conifer's main classroom has a custom-built, carpeted suspension floor, so as to reduce stress on the body when working out. The workout area is incredibly spacious, to provide each student ample room to workout. There are also spacious and comfortable viewing areas for friends and family to watch class. 

Nestled in the midst of beautiful Conifer, the Conifer taekwondo campus serves the Conifer, Aspen Park, Evergreen and Bailey communities. Nearby amenities include 3 Margaritas, Liks Ice Cream and Staples. 

Come join us today at the Conifer campus of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. We’re here to help you be a better you and reach your goals.

Self-Defense Training for Adults

At the Colorado Taekwondo Institute, we train in Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo, which also includes some Moos Sul Kwan Hapkido training. Both Taekwondo and Hapkido are martial arts that are thousands of years old, initially developed for people to learn to defend themselves, from both other people and wild animals. 

Moo Sul Kwan classes include lots of exercise to get our bodies and mind into shape, but they also include learning self-defense techniques. Hopefully they will never be needed, but learning this self-defense can have the real world consequences.  In the event of finding yourself in danger in your day to day life, self-defense is a very necessary skill to have in order to keep yourself safe.  Although the possibility of having to use your self defense in your everyday life is very slim, it is still important to practice your self defense techniques in case the situation arises that you would need to use them.  

Just as it is important to practice some of the more complicated or difficult areas of our Moo Sul Kwan training like basic techniques or poomse (patterned movements), one should not forget to practice their one-step sparring and self defense skills and techniques.  Being able to properly defend yourself is a highly prized skill in ones daily life. A martial artists should also take time to practice all of their self defense and understand how the techniques work on the body and how to properly execute them.  In the event of a dangerous situation, it would be very harmful of one had to stop and think about what they had to do. To truly improve one's self defense skills, you should be able to not only perform the appropriate technique, but execute it without having to actively think about it. This will be very beneficial in the event of an actual dangerous situation. It would be very valuable to incorporate self defense training into ones ongoing training.  Even though some of the techniques are less complicated that other areas of our Moo Sul Kwan training, one's self defense can always be improved upon just like any other branch of our Taekwondo. 

Remember, in class as well as outside of class, make sure to practice effectively but safely.  Self defense training is meant to be very effective and can be harmful if used improperly. Training in self defense is just a small, but very important part of our Moo Sul Kwan discipline, but must also be maintained to ensure that it is ready should the need ever arise.          

CTI: the Perfect Environment for Teens

The Colorado Taekwondo Institute of martial arts is a perfect environment for children, adults and of course, teenagers. As the CTI provides an encouraging environment and stress relieving program, it allows teenagers to have a outlet for their frustrations and simply a easy way to exercise while still having a good time. As teenagers are usually in junior high or high school, most will have homework and stressing situations within school, and home. As a healthy and friendly environment, the CTI strives for a place that is seen as not stressful, but stress relieving. Most teenagers need a place where they can relax, a place that will help them become successful, and that is what the CTI tries to embody. 

The CTI offers many martial arts for teens at many locations, such as Lakewood, Littleton, Westminster, Golden & Conifer. As many teens already have tight schedules, classes are highly flexible, with each location offering classes Monday through Friday. There is also the option of additional private lessons with the instructor, providing one on one work with the student. Not having to worry about a schedule or whether they missed something, the student can be at ease, and continue to maintain a healthy relationship with his or her instructor and classmates.

The CTI program doesn’t take time away from studying or being around friends, in fact, there are only 4 tournaments a year, which means students wouldn’t be worrying about competitions all the time, as they aren’t common throughout the year unlike with other sports, which take more time for practices, games and training. The CTI keeps its students healthy, without overworking its students. When students do take part of competitions or extra classes and camps, they form a bond with one another, and usually that bond lasts for years. Many people in the CTI have trained together for years, and they have created a bond that won’t be broken. Being a teenager myself, I think that martial arts for teenagers is a great thing. 

Knowing people in and out of the CTI program, there are some differences that you will notice. The CTI is based on 5 tenets, which guide us, and help us in places outside of class. Courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit. As the CTI is a disciplined community, our students have been taught that each of these tenets are important, and that we should remind ourselves of them every once in a while. CTI helps teens deal with peer pressure and helps them with body image and self-confidence. I have known teens who came into the CTI insecure, then after a few months, they felt better about themselves and it was all uphill from there. The CTI is more than just workouts, it is a confidence building, bonding and healthy experience that will help teens, children and adults be happier and healthier. It is something that has helped many, and will continue to help more every day it stands.

Campus Spotlight: Golden Campus

If you’re looking for a Golden martial arts school with a family friendly, disciplined, and exciting environment, look no further than the Golden location of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI). Located conveniently on Youngfield Street, this Golden martial arts school hosts classes that teach valuable self-defense skills to students of all ages, from toddlers to teens to adults. Like karate and kung fu, taekwondo is a martial art that trains the body and mind to improve ourselves and achieve goals. 

Martial arts, unlike many other sports, is an individual sport. Practicing karate and taekwondo is self-directed and self-motivated training. Traditional taekwondo, which is taught at the CTI, is a martial art similar to karate and kung fu. As a student, we better ourselves with the self-defense and education provided by this Golden taekwondo school. This allows us to set our own goals to accomplish with this martial arts training. For instance, a teen might be interested in the focus martial arts training provides and applying that to school. An adult may be interested in losing weight and setting a goal for getting in shape using martial arts. Even a toddler will see the benefit of setting a goal like getting their next belt and the satisfaction achieving that goal brings. 

There are choices out there for martial arts, but the CTI Golden martial arts school is a step above the rest. At the CTI students are encouraged to do more than just exercise in their regular classes, such as monthly homework and written tests for each belt. This keeps the martial arts frame of mind present in all part of our lives, so we can achieve any goals we have. The self-confidence and self-defense taught by our outstanding group of black belt instructors will allow anyone, to become a better version of themselves. 

Golden's classroom has custom-built, carpeted suspension floor, so as to reduce stress on the body when working out. The workout area is incredibly spacious, to provide each student ample room to workout. There are also spacious and comfortable viewing areas for friends and family to watch class. 

Nestled in the midst of beautiful Applewood, the Golden taekwondo campus serves the Applewood, Golden, Edgewater & Wheat Ridge communities. Nearby amenities include Tafolino's Mexican Restaurant, Jimmy's Wings and Teller's Taproom & Kitchen. 

Come join us today at the Golden campus of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. We’re here to help you be a better you and reach your goals.

Get Ready for the 2020 CTI Online Championships

 ONLINE MOO SUL KWAN COMPETITIONS FOR ALL AGES AND BELT LEVELS!

Our 2020 CTI Online Championships is coming!

This special two weekend event will take place online for the very first time in Moo Sul Kwan / AMASEA History! 

Black, Red, Brown and Purple belts of all ages will compete in our Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo competitions on September 26th. 

On October 10th, Blue, Green, Orange, Yellow and White belts will compete in four different exciting divisions of their own.

Moo Sul Kwan / AMASEA Grandmaster and Master instructor judges will be on hand with other CTI black belts to perform the judging in several exciting categories like; Poomse, One-Step Sparring, Taking it to the Target and more! 

Competitors will receive their time to report online for their division from their instructor.   

Before the competition begins, the competitor warms up with a CTI Remote Exercise and Basics Class from our website.  Then the action begins!

There is no late registration at this event.

For more information, click here.

Taekwondo Classes

If you have been looking to pick up a martial art, you have come to the right place. The Colorado Taekwondo Institute is an outstanding school for taekwondo classes. Coming from Korea, Taekwondo is one of the original oriental martial arts along with karate, hapkido, and judo. Taekwondo is indigenous to Korea, which means this type of self-defense comes from and evolved solely in Korea. It has been around for thousands of years under a few different names such as So Bak. The word taekwondo also means “the art of smashing with the feet and hands” in Korean. While all martial arts share some similarities, taekwondo is far superior to other martial arts. The style taught at Colorado Taekwondo Institute called Moo Sul Kwan teaches great values to students, is a great physical fitness program, and has a friendly and welcoming environment.

The best part about Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo is the strong character it teaches its students. In the student manual, there is a list of the tenets of taekwondo. These values include courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit. These tenets of taekwondo can be seen in everything we do. From the regular classes to the tournaments to the social events, we are constantly reminded of and taught these traits. Along with that, there are monthly homeworks that teach about other traits of a black belt such as honesty, healthy eating, and the importance of exercise. The most important value taekwondo teaches is how to work hard and the accomplishments that come with it. So, one great benefit of Taekwondo is the important principles it teaches.

Another important aspect of taekwondo classes is the physical workouts. Not only does Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo make you a better person mentally, but it also makes you physically fit. With all jumping jacks, stretches, and exercise, you are sure to workup a good sweat. There is focus on endurance training and muscular fitness in taekwondo. At the beginning of a typical class, we do jumping jacks, which elevate your heart rate and get you breathing. Then we do stretches, which prevent injuries and energize you. In this section, we do pushups and sit-ups, and these help with all of the techniques and help your muscular fitness. Later on, we do the basic kicking and punching routine, which again helps with endurance. This physical fitness is a great help to other sports as well as living a healthy lifestyle.

Lastly, the environment created by the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is a family friendly and inviting atmosphere. At the CTI, even with the competitions, we are all one big family. Even after your first class, you are guaranteed to meet a few new people. The CTI welcomes almost all ages from your five year old child to your seventy year old grandma. There are many different classes that cater to the varying ages and abilities of students. The biggest sign of the friendly environment though is the act of shaking hands, which students do all the time. At the end of every class, the students shake hands and tell each other good job. Even after a fierce sparring match at one of our tournaments, the competitors have a genuine handshake after and show mutual respect. As you can see, the CTI provides a positive environment to learn the great martial art that is taekwondo.

Perseverance and Commitment

By Caleb Feagans, 2nd dan, CTI Instructor

Perseverance is one of the tenets of Taekwondo that we study and learn about during our training. Many of us understand the importance of perseverance but at times we may forget when it is needed the most. The definition of perseverance is persistence in performing a task or attaining a goal despite difficulty or resistance. Perseverance is probably the most applicable tenet of Taekwondo as many of us have needed to use perseverance at school or work but, none can compare to our training here at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI). The road to black belt, and beyond, is long and tedious and requires much dedication, work, and commitment. At times we may want to give up and stop trying, but at that moment is the time when a student in the CTI needs to understand the importance of perseverance and apply it.

Perseverance is used every day in small doses and you may not even know that you are showing perseverance. Most of us had a paper in school or a project at work that we thought could wait and we wanted to procrastinate. However, Taekwondo training at the CTI helps us understand that instead of procrastinating, we should take advantage of the time we have now and at least start those projects. Starting or completing a task instead of waiting and putting off that project is an example of us using perseverance. An example of this in MSK Taekwondo would be studying for a written test or doing your monthly excellence sheet. These things maybe aren’t the biggest priorities in our everyday lives but in order to further enhance our Moo Sul Kwan training, these activities are essential. And if we as students let ourselves procrastinate and put off these items then we are not bettering ourselves, but taking steps backwards. Every class we do basics and are reminded that if we aren’t pushing 100% every class and strive to take steps forward, then we are actually taking steps backwards. That concept still applies to homework, written tests, and articles. These tasks require perseverance and we may not think of needing it with these tasks but in order to attain a black belt, students must learn to have perseverance, in any task, either physical or mental.

Not only do we need to work hard and have perseverance in our classes and training, but we also need to set a black belt example outside of the school. One of the hardest parts of training at CTI is understanding that the behavior that we are required to follow in the school is the same type of behavior that we need to exhibit in life. Perseverance is essential to do this. There are many times in life that will test this training and we may be tempted to break that training. A true Moo Sul Kwan martial arts black belt has to understand that the behavior exhibited in classes and around other students, instructors and assistant instructors is the same behavior that needs to be shown to co-workers, classmates, and any stranger. Although this may be tough, it will help your training and the road to become a black belt will be a little easier. Applying this skill to life will also help you become a better person. Although many students know the definition of perseverance, we may not know how to apply it to our training and our lives but the quicker you learn how to do that, the better off you will be in your MSK Taekwondo training and school or work. 

Adult Martial Arts Classes at the CTI

By Shekina DeTienne, 3rd dan

So many adults have always wanted to learn a martial art but just haven't gotten around to doing it. With this upcoming New Year, why not start now? If you want to learn a martial art, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is a place to start! They have multiple locations and offer classes for all ages, 5 days a week. With their excellent availability and program, adults can easily fit the goal of learning adult martial arts into their busy lives. And when looking for adult karate classes, here are a few reasons why classes at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute are the best around.

At the Colorado Taekwondo Institute an age appropriate program helps adults to build and develop physically and mentally. From the beginning of class to the end, the basic routine allows adults of all ages and abilities to learn correctly and safely. Using a time-tested routine of over fifty years, every class gives the student a solid foundation to start with and then builds on. Getting in shape, losing a little extra weight and increasing endurance and flexibility are target goals of the warm ups at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute.

Engaging mentally and supporting strength of mind as well as body is another major aim of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. Having physical routines that require repeating helps students develop themselves on an intellectual level. Self-defense techniques, kicks, blocks, strikes, and a variety of preset drills challenge adults physically while engaging them mentally. Providing consistent, measurable goals for adults to learn and grow in adult karate classes is a key to the student's success.

If you are looking for an adult program that provides both physical and mental growth, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is a great program to start with for adult martial arts. They strive for excellence in everything they do from a flexible schedule to attainable goals, from multiple locations to a time tested, successful program. Don’t delay your goal of learning a martial art, start today!

 

Campus Spotlight: Westminster Campus

If you’re looking for a Westminster martial arts school with a family friendly, disciplined, and exciting environment, look no further than the Westminster location of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI). Located conveniently on W. Alameda Parkway, this Westminster martial arts school hosts classes that teach valuable self-defense skills to students of all ages, from toddlers to teens to adults. Like karate and kung fu, taekwondo is a martial art that trains the body and mind to improve ourselves and achieve goals. 

Martial arts, unlike many other sports, is an individual sport. Practicing karate and taekwondo is self-directed and self-motivated training. Traditional taekwondo, which is taught at the CTI, is a martial art similar to karate and kung fu. As a student, we better ourselves with the self-defense and education provided by this Westminster taekwondo school. This allows us to set our own goals to accomplish with this martial arts training. For instance, a teen might be interested in the focus martial arts training provides and applying that to school. An adult may be interested in losing weight and setting a goal for getting in shape using martial arts. Even a toddler will see the benefit of setting a goal like getting their next belt and the satisfaction achieving that goal brings. 

There are choices out there for martial arts, but the CTI Westminster martial arts school is a step above the rest. At the CTI students are encouraged to do more than just exercise in their regular classes, such as monthly homework and written tests for each belt. This keeps the martial arts frame of mind present in all part of our lives, so we can achieve any goals we have. The self-confidence and self-defense taught by our outstanding group of black belt instructors will allow anyone, to become a better version of themselves. 

Both of the Westminster main classrooms have custom-built, carpeted suspension floors, so as to reduce stress on the body when working out. Each workout area is incredibly spacious, to provide each student ample room to workout. There are also spacious and comfortable viewing areas for friends and family to watch class. 

Nestled in on the border of North Arvada and Westminster, the Westminster taekwondo campus serves the Arvada, Broomfield, and Westminster communities. Nearby amenities include I Heart Sushi, Sano's Italian Kitchen and Sideways Sports Lounge.

Come join us today at the Westminster campus of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. We’re here to help you be a better you and reach your goals.

Your Local Martial Arts School

By Khristin Paisley, purple belt

Most often when people not associated with martial arts think about martial arts or martial artists they automatically think of pop culture icons from the Karate Kid movies, Kung Fu Panda, Bruce Lee, and Chuck Norris to name a few. Their perception of martial artists is based on these things and there is an almost automatic connection with board breaking, and yelling like a banshee while we go about kicking and punching. It is hard to see beyond the Hollywood construct to the benefits that are inherent to our art, and the unique benefits that adults experience as a martial arts student at your local martial arts schools. 

Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo is amazing at helping to improve adult fitness, however, the benefits aren’t just physical and to say that it is the primary benefit of our art would be painting it with a broad paintbrush with too little paint. The physical benefits are impossible to deny because we ask our bodies to perform feats that many would balk at and without proper training aren’t possible or safe for the average person to perform. We learn poomse, patterned movements against imaginary attackers.  We learn kicks, punches, and blocks; all while improving our physical fitness. Martial arts lessons take a person from average to something more and like any art, the more of ourselves we give over to it, the better we and it become. The physical benefits are not the whole picture. We learn to do things we couldn’t do before, we benefit from the practice inside and outside the dojang.

In Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo nothing ever is just one sided. When we kick with the left leg, our right leg is also involved as well as our hands. Through this we learn balance and gain an understanding that this also includes and requires balanced movements; not just the physical balance required to perform these tasks. We gain a real life understanding of for every action there is an opposite and equal reaction, this is apparent through a balance of movement.  A good block doesn’t just begin and end with your arm; it requires whole body and whole brain involvement. This is why physical fitness is a secondary benefit and comes naturally with everything else we do.

Much of what we do involves cross body movements which has been linked to things such as improved cognition. In learning poomse we make our brains work in incredible ways that they likely have never had to before. Keeping one part of your body still, while moving another independently and with intention, requires a great deal of heightened cognition, focus, and determination; as well as mastery of the aspects of moving and breathing.  That is just the surface of it because once you have the basics of the what, you learn the nuances that make it better. Martial arts lessons are a mental workout.

Eventually we realize that when we apply these lessons to whole body and whole brain involvement, we see that we gain a better understanding of ourselves and achieve a greater mastery of our whole self. We learn that no matter how good we are, we have the ability to achieve more, to learn and improve more, and to become more. We never lose the sense of awe either, it goes from "I could never do that," to "I just did that."  It is cyclical.  

The secret is our goal is to keep setting bigger goals. Intermediate goals, belts, are always close enough to keep us going, to keep us pushing and determined; yet just far enough ahead that we are hungry and strive to reach for them. The benefits are vast, varied and nearly limitless. This is perhaps the greatest benefit of all, because we learn to keep pushing which can never be secluded to Taekwondo. We learn to give respect and live respectfully and balanced. Through Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo you become part of a team and part of a family and that is a benefit unto itself. I highly recommend the Colorado Taekwondo Institute when you are looking into local martial arts schools. 

Martial Arts for Kids

By Karen Carreon, red belt, CTI LeAD Team Member

How do you know which martial arts is right for your kids?  When I began the search for a marital arts program for my kids, I really had no idea where to start.  At first, I looked for a school that was close to home.  There are so many schools and styles of martial arts to choose from.  Proximity may be important, but it is not the only consideration.  Of course, you want to make sure your child is safe.  How well are the instructors trained?  How much experience do they have working with kids?  What age is appropriate to start?  How fast will my child advance?  Will the classes fit our schedule and budget?  Are there other lessons to learn such as discipline and motivation?  Will my child fit in?  There are many questions to consider.  

A very important aspect to consider when choosing a school of martial arts for your child is to make sure that the environment at the school is safe.  At the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI), students start at the beginner level regardless of past experience in martial arts or in other sports.  CTI black belt instructors will ensure that each child receives instructions in basic training including proper warm ups, stretching, and beginner level self defense moves.  Progression in levels of difficulty and belt rank depends on each individual student based on their abilities, attendance, and attitude.  Rules of etiquette are strictly enforced during class to keep it fun and safe for everyone.  Everybody adheres to these rules of etiquette from the beginner student to the master instructors.  CTI promotes respectable behavior and good sportsmanship.  At the end of every class it is boldly and proudly said, “self control before self defense.”  Students are sometimes encouraged to give examples of this in their everyday life such as, “I help with the dishes after a meal without having to be told to do so or, study extra hard for an upcoming school exam.”  These examples tie into the five tenets of taekwondo which are: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit.  CTI has each student based on their age and rank complete monthly homework to help the student to understand these concepts and how they apply to their martial arts training and to their personal lives.  The issue of safety is not only limited to class time at CTI but in all areas of the students experiences.

Another consideration in determining the right marital arts school for your child is how are the marital arts instructors trained to work with students of various ages and abilities?  Instructors at CTI have mastered skills and have passed rigorous testing protocol in order to advance at the instructor level.  Specialized classes for teaching methods have been developed and utilized and are in constant review and scrutiny by the master instructors.  The mission statement of CTI is, “to encourage world class leadership through educational excellence and Moo Sul Kwan Martial Arts traditions.”  Top students through many years of hard work and dedication begin to learn the methods of teaching, assistant teaching, judging at tournaments.  Some have the ultimate goal of teaching their own classes within the CTI’s many campuses.  CTI has campuses in Golden, Westminster, Green Mountain, Littleton, and Conifer.  CTI has some after school programs at area public and private schools.  Families are encouraged to join together if possible to make it fun and exciting for the whole family.  With regular and consistent participation, kids learn in a safe and productive environment with a qualified black belt instructor dedicated to the high standards of CTI.  

You may wonder, at what age can my kid start classes?  Kids at CTI have started as young as 2 years old.  This all depends on the individual child.  A private session may be set up with the campus coordinator to get an idea if the child is mature and ready to begin classes.  The very youngest (Tigers) generally start with a half hour class and the older kids start in a one hour class. 

CTI offers an opportunity for a potential student to attend 2 classes with a school issued uniform as an introduction to the CTI Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo.  Parents may view their child in class from the lobby viewing area.  Students are encouraged to participate in class twice a week to stay on top of their training since consistency promotes success in their martial arts training.  Each campus has a schedule with classes offered for different age groups with young kids (tigers), juniors, and adults.  

Joining The Colorado Taekwondo Institute has brought me and my family many years of fulfillment.  Each belt level brings new challenges both mentally and physically.  I get a great workout while concentrating on my moves and techniques.  I don’t have time to think about anything else.  This gives me a mental break as well as a mental challenge.  The time passes very quickly as there are many various aspects of the training.  In other words, it’s never boring.  Warm-ups, basic training, “poomse” which is a choreographed patterned movement, point sparring, board breaking for age appropriate students, and more.  Students at CTI  train for promotion rank tests to advance to the next belt.  Students train for tournaments which are held 4 times a year.  There are summer expo’s, day camps and week long camps, symposiums, clinics and workshops.  There are many opportunities to learn and to make friends.  For the more advanced students there are opportunities to travel.  I’ve noticed my very shy daughter breaking out of her shell and becoming stronger in spirit and she is doing very well in her studies.  CTI instructors encourages kids to be the best student in their martial arts school and strongly encourages scholarly endeavors elsewhere.  I’m so glad my family participates in Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute.  You and your family will enjoy it too! 

Why Taekwondo is Good for Kids!

By Jonah Elstad, 1st dan

Taekwondo, or karate for kids, is not just good for kids- it is great for kids! I started attending Colorado Taekwondo Institute when I was 8 years old. Over the last five years I have noticed many positive changes in my life because of Taekwondo. I have also noticed the positive effects of Taekwondo in my fellow classmates. While there are several great aspects of Taekwondo, the three major ones are physical health, emotional health, and improved behavior. 

First, the best martial arts for kids improves the student’s physical health. Taekwondo has improved my heath tremendously. Before taekwondo I got sick a lot. Because of the exercise the I get in class my body is stronger and I get sick less. I have more energy now and my endurance has improved. In taekwondo class we learn how to eat healthy. We learn the importance of eating fruits and vegetables instead of junk food. When we eat healthy we get sick less and feel better.  Kids of all ages can get healthier by going to Taekwondo!

Second, Taekwondo improves the student`s emotional heath. During class and through our monthly homework, students develop a strong self-confidence.  The instructors also point out our positive characteristics and help us feel good about ourselves.  This is very important to a person’s emotional health.  Since we go to class twice a week and do other actives regularly, we spend a lot of time with each other. We become like a family. My Taekwondo family has helped me through difficult times in my life and I am very thankful for them.  All kids benefit from the emotional health benefits karate for kids provides. Sometimes just being able to punch, kick, and yell helps to release one`s emotions and feel better.

Third, Taekwondo helps improves the student’s behavior. I have seen kid’s behavior change for the better in my years at taekwondo.  Students become more respectful, focused and develop self-control while attending Colorado Taekwondo Institute.   When kids feel better physically and emotionally they are happier and act-out less.  I have watched kids attitude improve as their self-confidence grew.  It is truly amazing how Taekwondo changes the student’s behavior in appositive way.  

It is obvious that best martial arts for kids is great for kids!  These past five years of being a student at CTI have been the best years of my life.  I feel better physically, my emotional health is stronger, and I have more self-control.  I have also loved watching the transformation in all these areas of my fellow classmates.

Campus Spotlight: Littleton Campus

If you’re looking for a Littleton martial arts school with a family friendly, disciplined, and exciting environment, look no further than the Littleton location of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI). Located conveniently on S. Simms Street, this Litttleton martial arts school hosts classes that teach valuable self-defense skills to students of all ages, from toddlers to teens to adults. Like karate and kung fu, taekwondo is a martial art that trains the body and mind to improve ourselves and achieve goals. 

Martial arts, unlike many other sports, is an individual sport. Practicing karate and taekwondo is self-directed and self-motivated training. Traditional taekwondo, which is taught at the CTI, is a martial art similar to karate and kung fu. As a student, we better ourselves with the self-defense and education provided by this Littleton taekwondo school. This allows us to set our own goals to accomplish with this martial arts training. For instance, a teen might be interested in the focus martial arts training provides and applying that to school. An adult may be interested in losing weight and setting a goal for getting in shape using martial arts. Even a toddler will see the benefit of setting a goal like getting their next belt and the satisfaction achieving that goal brings. 

There are choices out there for martial arts, but the CTI Littleton martial arts school is a step above the rest. At the CTI students are encouraged to do more than just exercise in their regular classes, such as monthly homework and written tests for each belt. This keeps the martial arts frame of mind present in all part of our lives, so we can achieve any goals we have. The self-confidence and self-defense taught by our outstanding group of black belt instructors will allow anyone, to become a better version of themselves. 

Both of the Littleton main classrooms have custom-built, carpeted suspension floors, so as to reduce stress on the body when working out. Each workout area is incredibly spacious, to provide each student ample room to workout. There are also spacious and comfortable viewing areas for friends and family to watch class. 

Nestled in between Ken Caryl and Morrison, the Littleton taekwondo campus serves the Littleton, Chatfield, Columbine, and Morrison communities. Nearby amenities include Iwayama Sushi, Salon Sei Bella and Walgreens. 

Come join us today at the Littleton  campus of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. We’re here to help you be a better you and reach your goals.

Where can I start Karate lessons?

By Lydia Willis, 1st dan

“Where can I start Karate?” Whenever taekwondo, karate, or any martial arts comes to mind, I think of the Colorado Taekwondo Taekwondo, where I take my karate classes. Why? Because it has many benefits including exercise, leadership and a wide variety of skills to learn.

First, Colorado Taekwondo Taekwondo provides difficult, yet enjoyable exercise. We warm-up with lots of jumping jacks and stretches. Unlike other martial art schools, we all have a chance to count out loud ten jumping jacks. But, we don’t count in English, we count in Korean because Taekwondo originates from Korea. A very long time ago the farmers in Korea had a hard time defending themselves during any combat so they develop their own fighting skills that would smash through armor and get them to the height of a man on a horse. Most words we use that relate to a move or command are in Korean. A normal class schedule includes our warm-up, the Taekwondo basics, something we call patterned movements or poomse, and a fun game or self defense segment at the end of class. Instead of saying Taekwondo basics we just call that part of class basics. In basics we work on our punches, strikes, blocks, and kicks. We have three kinds of punches, high, low, and mid, later on when we work on self defense or poomse they come into play. Actually everything we do in basics translates into poomse and self defense. That’s why we call them the basics. Poomse is a group of moves put into one flowing set. It’s kind of like making music notes into a whole song, but the notes are the moves and the song is the poomse itself. We are taught many, many, many poomse as we progress through the belts that we earn. Self defense is pretty self explanatory. We learn different defenses for different situations. Or we play a game. There are lots of different games for use to play, some strengthen our reflexes or abilities, while others seem to just be for fun. 

Next, we learn leadership skills from the beginning of our Taekwondo career. When you begin Taekwondo whether you are 2 or 62 you show respect by saying "yes sir" or "yes ma’am". As you progress in belts the amount of leadership skills you need increases too. As a white belt, it isn’t your responsibility to line everyone up for class, it’s whoever is the highest belt student in class. It takes a lot of courage and leadership to make the group assemble correctly. Another example is when we have game time, specifically relay races. Someone is the captain on every team and sometimes they have to work hard and set a good example for the rest of their team. The captain also has to keep their group in line, literally, and behaviorally. It takes a whole lot of leadership skills to participate in Taekwondo.

Finally, we can look into the many physical skills that you will learn in Taekwondo. First of all, we must learn about endurance. To learn endurance, we do around two hundred jumping jack per class and several push-ups, sit-ups, and difficult stretches. The main part of class is basics where we work on our kicks, punches, strikes, and stances. All of basics plays into different parts of class, mostly our or poomse. In poomse we learn to precisely time our moves and to work hard in memorization. Poomse is probably the biggest part of Taekwondo, but it has a rival. In class we also work on self-defense. The two different types of self defense learned are called, one-steps and just straight up self defense. We have twenty-six one-steps and lots of self defense. Sometimes there is a world tour where we go to some country, including South Korea. We also are given the opportunity to go above and beyond in our learning with something we call Black Belt Club. As the name states it is a class that prepares you for black belt. It’s a class for those looking to challenge their memory with lots of new activities.

Taekwondo is an amazing experience no matter how old or young you are. It has so many perks including exercise, the gaining of leadership skills, and the knowledge of many different physical skills. You should come down to any CTI campus and at least try out a karate class.

Your Family in Taekwondo

By Irene Kim, 1st dan, and mother of two CTI students

The benefits from training in Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo are immeasurable and intensely meaningful when multiple family members train together at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI). A very unique bonding develops immediately and continually grows stronger, as each member of the family pushes themselves to achieve goals once thought to be unattainable. 

The study of Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo for families requires undivided attention to multiple things simultaneously to accurately complete required moves.  It is a very challenging but rewarding practice. To recall and implement the seemingly infinite number of techniques is a constant push but also so satisfying when you do become closer to mastering even one. 

The training also requires continual practice of techniques. While one learns the moves, not only is the physical performance involved but also the attainment of a deep understanding of the rationales behind the moves.  One achieves this by practicing and interacting with others at the CTI. 

For multiple family members training in family martial arts, it allows valuable opportunities for even further practice and understanding. I am an adult red belt who got my 10-year-old daughter involved when she was around 5. A photo of her in her first uniform with her white belt looks over me now, as I write this. Her smile is beaming with pride even back then and reminds me of the value of having my family involved. 

My 7-year-old son also joined a couple years ago and now he enjoys the competition of tournaments and our family training together. We often talk of “kicks nights,” our family’s way of referring to the nights we all go to classes. The schedule of the household does continually involve these nights and I look forward to seeing them strengthen their minds, bodies and spirits while improving their self-confidence, respect for others, focus and discipline. 

As we individually push to understand and perform the beautiful Martial Art of Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo for families at the CTI, we ask each other questions to further delve into the details of each move. We can point out things on which we are doing well, as well as those areas which might need improvement. We do these things in the living room, at the park, in the kitchen...as well as at the dojang, or workout area at the Institute. 

The benefits of family martial arts extend into all aspects of your life: at school, work and in the community. Sometimes on our way to school or a birthday party, we will talk about where your foot should be on a certain poomse or what the target of your punches is. This improves and strengthens our focus and allows success in other areas as we move through our days. It is also incredibly fun to figure out the details and push each member of the family to success together. 

Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo is not just for you, it is something very positive and rewarding to pass onto generations to come.

Campus Spotlight: Green Mountain Campus

If you’re looking for a Lakewood martial arts school with a family friendly, disciplined, and exciting environment, look no further than the Lakewood location of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI). Located conveniently on W. Alameda Parkway, this Lakewood martial arts school hosts classes that teach valuable self-defense skills to students of all ages, from toddlers to teens to adults. Like karate and kung fu, taekwondo is a martial art that trains the body and mind to improve ourselves and achieve goals. 

Martial arts, unlike many other sports, is an individual sport. Practicing karate and taekwondo is self-directed and self-motivated training. Traditional taekwondo, which is taught at the CTI, is a martial art similar to karate and kung fu. As a student, we better ourselves with the self-defense and education provided by this Lakewood taekwondo school. This allows us to set our own goals to accomplish with this martial arts training. For instance, a teen might be interested in the focus martial arts training provides and applying that to school. An adult may be interested in losing weight and setting a goal for getting in shape using martial arts. Even a toddler will see the benefit of setting a goal like getting their next belt and the satisfaction achieving that goal brings. 

There are choices out there for martial arts, but the CTI Lakewood martial arts school is a step above the rest. At the CTI students are encouraged to do more than just exercise in their regular classes, such as monthly homework and written tests for each belt. This keeps the martial arts frame of mind present in all part of our lives, so we can achieve any goals we have. The self-confidence and self-defense taught by our outstanding group of black belt instructors will allow anyone, to become a better version of themselves. 

Both of the Lakewood main classrooms have custom-built, carpeted suspension floors, so as to reduce stress on the body when working out. Each workout area is incredibly spacious, to provide each student ample room to workout. There are also spacious and comfortable viewing areas for friends and family to watch class. 

Nestled in the midst of beautiful Green Mountain, the Lakewood taekwondo campus serves the Lakewood and Green Mountain communities. Nearby amenities include Starbucks, Natural Grocers and King Soopers. 

Come join us today at the Lakewood campus of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. We’re here to help you be a better you and reach your goals.

The Importance of Being a Self-Directed Learner

By Caleb Feagans, 2nd dan, Conifer Instructor

As a result of recent events, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute has moved to online learning and has been conducting modified in person classes for the months of self-quarantine and during this time students of the CTI are starting to truly understand what it means to be a self-directed learner.   

One of the aims and goals of Moo Sul Kwan is to “Help students in identifying and accomplishing appropriate goals, developing a sense of self-esteem and confidence, in encouraging their desire for self-directed learning”.   CTI martial arts instructors help their students set goals and assist them in achieving those goals however, during this time we cannot get together and work out consistently twice a week. At this time we as students must now continue to work out and grow by ourselves and force ourselves to set goals and strive to accomplish those goals. 

The definition of self-directed learning is the process in which one takes initiative to set goals and takes the steps necessary to accomplish those goals.   In Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo, we set goals like earning our next belt, increase our maximum number of push-ups, finally nailing that perfect side kick, or breaking a board with a kick you’ve been working on.   Our instructors push us every class and help us progress towards our goals, but now we cannot go see our instructors twice a week in classes so we can get that support and help.   That is why now is the time to truly become a self-directed learner by setting and working towards those goals on our own. 

 I have found that my motivation to do work-outs consistently and after a few weeks has been minimal.  I tried to do my basics and warm-ups as much as I could using the remote learning page but it was not until I created a training chart and set goals for myself that I finally started to get excited about working out since self-quarantine began.  Creating a training chart, having an accountability partner or make new small goals to achieve during this time will help bring back that sense of accomplishment.  Not only will you become stronger when we eventually return to regular classes, but you will be a better self-directed learner.  Being a better self-directed learner will not only help you with your MSK Taekwondo goals, but it will make you a better co-worker, a better student in school, and simply a better person in general.  During these uncertain times it can be difficult to motivate yourself but in the CTI one key aspect of becoming a great student is the ability to be a self-directed learner and now is the best time to show off that skill to your instructor and yourself.

One-Step Sparring

By Erik Albrechtson, 6th dan

FROM CLASSES TAUGHT AT MOO SUL KWAN SUMMER EXPO XXXV

One-step sparring is another part of our training that puts our basics into motion.  The foundations that are established first in basics and then in poomse can be built upon while practicing one-step sparring. In addition to developing speed on your techniques, there are a few additional benefits since you are training with a partner.  Timing (can you hit your stance and block just as the attacker throws theirs?), judgment of distance (can you throw your blocks, kicks and strikes with a precise distance to your partner?) and precision (can you throw your moves to the correct target position?) are three of the benefits that one-steps help a student develop. 

Be sure to practice your one-steps in walking drills too.  They will help you memorize the moves, perfect the technique and stances, and help you develop speed for each one-step.  Don’t forget there are one step walking drill defenses (start with your left leg back on the first side) and one-step walking drill attacks (start with your right leg back on the first side).

The CTI Student Manual lists 12 One-Step Sparring rules. Four of these rules mirror other rules of Moo Sul Kwan training:

Kihap - there are actually two one-step sparring rules that correlate with kihaps. One is for both the attacker and defender to go into their respective ready stance with a loud and clear kihap. The second is for the defender to kihap on their last counter attack.  

Eye contact - it’s sort of a no-brainer that there is a one-step rule about eye contact. In order to practice awareness in a self-defense situation, and to have the best possible balance, eye contact is a must!

Start slowly - this rule is similar to the poomse rule. When a student is first learning a one-step, they should perform it slowly and make each block, kick, punch and stance accurate and awesome. After a few hundred repetitions they can speed it up.

Correct stance and posture - since our power comes from being grounded to the earth, it is most important that each stance is correct and that our balance and posture is the best it can be.