CTI Martial Arts: Westminster Campus

Martial arts is a universal activity with different origins all revolving around self-defense and self-protection. From taekwondo, to karate, to judo, the physical, mental and spiritual development of martial arts can benefit people of all ages. With the combination of culture, discipline and self-defense, martial arts is useful for everyone and can be enjoyed with all circumstances and lifestyles. Amongst the several martial arts schools in the Westminster, Colorado area, there is one specific school that provides so much more to its students than just increasing belt rankings or learning how to defend oneself; this is the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. For anyone interested in martial arts in Westminster, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is a great option due to its commitment to developing its students into life-long leaders through educational excellence and martial arts traditions. 

The Westminster Colorado Taekwondo Institute is located on West 88th Avenue and is encircled by several neighboring school areas, making it an easily-accessible campus for children and adults. The CTI has something to benefit people of all ages from the tiger age (2-4 years old) to adults (18+). For all ages, taking classes at the CTI is an amazing form of physical activity and exercise, ensuring physical fitness created by Taekwondo’s utilization of all five components of fitness. Working out at least 2-3 days a week improves everyone’s lifestyles and keeps them in shape for a bright future. Additionally, the CTI teaches several forms of self-defense that can be used at any time when facing a dangerous situation. The realism in the techniques make self-defense easily applicable to reality. 

This Westminster martial arts school stands out because it has so much more to offer than physical activity and self-defense; classes also stimulate the brain, develop the mind and teach social skills.  The instructors at this Westminster martial arts campus are very diligent and caring when working with children starting at a young age, ensuring that their pent-up energy is released through the development of motor skills when punching, kicking and yelling. Along with this, toddlers are encouraged to show respect at a young age by learning how to listen and exercise self-defense to overall build up their confidence and self-esteem. Moving along to youth classes, the CTI applies its values to outside the classroom through the assignment of homework and teaching of the applicability of discipline in every aspect of life like school and home. This starts children at a young age on a path towards leadership and success in education and the future. The teen level has similar benefits to those of a tiger or youth, but are enhanced to fit with the constant change accompanied by maturity, growth and education. Teen classes are a perfect way to exercise anger management and focus, but also build up self-confidence and respect towards everyone. Finally, at the adult level, taekwondo at the CTI is the perfect way to keep up flexibility, relieve stress and focus on reaching goals while managing life outside one’s martial arts training. It’s never too early or too late to start Taekwondo at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute because there will always be benefits to the martial art. If you’re in the Westminster area, this martial arts school could be the right choice for you with its dedication to physical, mental and spiritual development. 

The values of this martial arts school in Westminster serve people of all ages and thus makes it stand out amongst its competitors within the area. By providing educational excellence since 1983, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute’s professionalism in martial arts training makes it a prime candidate when looking for martial arts schools in the Westminster area. Through its many years of experience, the Colorado Taekwondo Institute has proven to take care of its students within the classroom. The CTI promotes a safe and encouraging environment where everyone is welcome. The instructors, especially at the Westminster CTI, care about every person who walks in and out of the school from students to parents to grandparents and guarantee a good atmosphere during martial arts training. At the Westminster CTI, each workout area maximizes the space with their matted or carpeted floors, plenty of space for classes with several students, equipment to practice and improve specific skills, and viewing areas for families to stay in during class. Especially during this time, this martial arts school in Westminster has proved to stay clean and professional by keeping the school sanitary at all times. All interactions within the school demonstrate a great environment that fits with all personalities, welcoming people of all ages for a good time learning martial arts. 

The Westminster martial arts school is dedicated to teaching Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo to anyone willing to partake in the program. This Westminster martial arts school has created the best environment to create the most valuable experiences in life, whether it focuses on martial arts training, social skills or discipline. We hope you check out our school sometime!

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, Friendly Martial Arts School: Westminster Campus

The Colorado Taekwondo Institute (CTI) provides 5 local locations in the Denver Area, including the Westminster location on W. 88th Avenue, just west of Wadsworth. CTI teaches the martial art of Taekwondo, and a key lesson we teach in our classes is self-defense. There are classes for every age, including children as young as 2 years old and also juniors, teens, and adults. Teaching self-defense to every student is essential, and there are numerous ways in which CTI incorporates self-defense training into the students daily routine. Knowing how to defend yourself in dangerous situations will help build self-confidence, along with learning how to respect yourself and others.

Westminster Taekwondo and Karate teach the student how to defend themselves and their loved ones, in the event of being attacked. At the Westminster location the primary lesson of self-defense that we teach our students, is to avoid bad situations, places, and people in the first place. Staying away from all of these initially, will make the possibility of being attacked or in a dangerous situation less likely. The next lesson of self-defense this martial art teaches, is how to physically defend yourself and others if the situation ever does come to that. One of the most basic forms of self-defense is yelling; in Taekwondo we call a yell a “kihap.” Yelling can scare away an attacker, and it is also a great call for help. The good people around become aware that someone is in trouble, and then they can step in to help. Students then learn how to get out and away if an attacker grabs onto them in various ways. These certain self-defense moves are practiced a lot in class, and when a student gets to be a teen and adult these self-defense will become more elaborate. Our main goal at Westminster Taekwondo is to ensure that the student knows how to protect themselves, loved ones, and other people around if necessary.

Self-defense is incorporated into our daily class routine in CTI martial arts classes. To prepare for physically defending oneself, the student always does a thorough warm-up of the whole body along with many different stretches. To practice self-defense in class, the students body needs to be properly warmed up; this way, if attacked in real-life the body will have the flexibility and strength needed to defend when the time comes. The exercises done in each class will build up the strength and endurance of the muscles to make them strong. Each self-defense move is practiced over and over again, to create many repetitions. If attacked in real-life the body will automatically react because of all these repetitions, and it will just be a reaction. Although learning self-defense in Westminster martial arts and Westminster karate takes a lot of physical strength, it also requires much mental strength and ability. The mind has to be focused in on each self-defense technique. This focus and mental strength really carries over to a students school-life, especially for teens in middle school or high school. Having a strong mind is a very important quality to possess in order to defend yourself in bad situations, but a strong mind is just as important in everyday life and school.

There are many great lessons learned from self-defense training in martial arts at our Westminster location. One of the most essential qualities is the build up of self-confidence. Knowing you can keep yourself away from bad people and also be able to defend yourself if it comes to it, really builds up a person’s self-confidence. Being aware of your surroundings and staying away from bad places and situations will also boost self-confidence. Another paramount quality in result of self-defense, is having respect for others. The student will learn how to respect people of all ages and types, and most importantly how to respect themselves.

Self-defense is such an important part of a individual’s character, and enables so many other great elements. At our Westminster martial arts school, through teaching the Martial Art of Taekwondo, we provide training in which self-defense is one of the top lessons taught. Through the daily class routine, self-defense is incorporated in numerous ways and the body is physically prepared for any situation. The student will know how to defend themselves, and all of this together will build self-confidence and respect in school, at home, and in everyday life.

Waiting to be Uncovered: Westminster CTI

By Eric Evans, 2nd dan

The Westminster location is located one mile west of Wadsworth and 88th avenue at 9020 W 88th Ave, Arvada, CO 80005. Nearby restaurants include a relaxed atmosphere in Sano's Italian Kitchen or sushi from I Love Sushi. While students are attending classes, parents can pamper themselves at the local hair Salon or barber shop and for the parents who enjoy running, Standley lake is just a short drive or jog away. For the pet lovers, a huge off leash dog park is just north of the campus and Standley lake on 105th and Simms street.

Our campus provides classes for all ages and students of all abilities. We serve the Arvada, Westminster and Broomfield areas. Convenient afternoon and evening class schedules are available for students Monday through Friday. Classes are separated by age group and occur twice a week with the same instructor. Opportunities exist for upper belt students to expand their training and leadership by assistant instructing in these classes. Additional makeup classes are available on Friday as well as advanced training in Black belt club.

Each dynamic class takes place in one of the three spacious workout areas. Workout areas contains a custom built suspension floor free of obstructions. New carpet has recently been installed in the main workout area. Viewing areas are available for parents, grandparents and friends and enclosed to minimize any distraction to the class.  The campus’ goal is to provide a safe environment where students can learn.

Students will learn self confidence, self control and leadership through Moo Sul Kwan martial arts traditions. Each class is taught to encourage the students to become thoughtful individuals. Students are encouraged to become leaders in their communities as they progress through each belt level. Each class is a unique journey that includes a warm-up, basic punches, strikes, and blocks as well as the dynamic kicks that Taekwondo is known for. Throughout the student’s training they are taught and reminded that all that is needed is a focus through paying attention and giving 100% every class.

In addition to the classes, the Westminster location hosts after school programs at select Jefferson County elementary schools. Students in these programs are welcome and encouraged to attend additional classes at the Westminster campus during the week. This is a great way to get students and their friends involved with a healthy activity that will educate and help them throughout their life.

All Instructors attend regular training classes as well as advanced training every weekend. The instructor's’ goal is to put the students first by providing a safe dynamic learning environment. These instructors team up 4 times a year with other Colorado Taekwondo Institute instructors to host competitive tournaments. Students are encouraged to attend as the tournaments provide the opportunity to bring their training to a higher level. The tournaments also provide an environment where many friendships are made and students gain self confidence through competition. In addition to the tournaments the Colorado Taekwondo institute hosts a weekend Expo, an upper belt symposium and a week long summer camp in the beautiful Colorado mountains. Additional demonstrations are provided to the community throughout the year as well as seminars for all current students. These seminars include sparring, anti-bullying, self defense and upper belt workshops.

Call us today to learn more. We look forward to helping you!

Martial Arts Lessons at Westminster Taekwondo Institute

When your toddler, child or teenager express an interest in martial arts, whether they want to be a Kung Fu Panda or actually learn to protect themselves and develop awareness, where do you turn? There is quite a variety of martial arts schools in the North Arvada/Westminster, Colorado area that are available to you. But the quality of each school will vary greatly and you want to find the school with the best quality of instruction and teachers for you and your family.

The Westminster Taekwondo Institute offers the best and most convenient martial arts classes in the area.  The Westminster school is located in the Lake Plaza Shopping Center - right off W. 88th Avenue and Garrison Street - with easy access from the Village of Five Parks, Leyden Rock and Candelas.  The school is in the corner until, next to Applauze Salon and I Love Sushi.

First of all, our classes for kids are amazing.  There are so many benefits from children practicing martial arts, including mental benefits (such as focus, discipline, perseverance, and developing respect for self and others) and physical benefits (such as muscular strength and endurance, energy release and motor development) that it's easy to see why many parents are eager to get their children involved with karate in Arvada and Westminster, CO.

Adults too will benefit from our martial arts and self-defense classes. The physical and mental benefits are the same for adults, but in addition there are some that apply more towards adults. These include stress release, goal-oriented physical activity and learning self-defense to protect yourself and loved ones. The website examiner.com has an article explaining many of the great reasons why adults should get involved with martial arts.

But if all martial art schools give these benefits, why chose the Westminster location of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute? As with anything else, the quality makes a huge difference. You want to find the best school possible for you or your children to attend in order to maximize your results and to get the most from the program. Here are four reasons why the CTI is the best school in the Arvada/Westminster area for children's and adult martial arts:

• Educated Instructors -  We don't hire any outside instructors; each instructor is "home-grown" from white belt and developed into one of our educated instructors. This allows us to provide the very-best in quality instruction. Each black belt instructor has years of martial arts instruction and also instructor development.
• Structured, Dynamic Classes - each class taught is set in a structured environment. Students are led by the instructor through a routine of exercise, basic and advanced Taekwondo techniques. With this structure, students are learning discipline and focus. They aren't running around being wild, they are developing themselves mentally.
• Safe Learning Environment - Each of our campuses is designed with the best quality of instruction in mind. We build our own custom suspension workout floors and have quiet workout areas so students can focus on their learning and not become distracted with outside influences.
• Staff that Cares - All of our teachers put students first, teaching to help our students foster their passion for martial arts in the same way that they learned. Our school isn't a "belt factory" designed to get as many students in the door as possible and promote them in a money-making scheme. Every instructor here cares about their students and wants to encourage and help them develop all of the wonderful things that martial arts have to offer.  Our students come first.  The instructors work to encourage and lead them into being the best student they can be.

The best way to see if our Westminster martial arts lessons at the Westminster Taekwondo Institute are the best for your family is to give us a call and set up a time for our no-obligation introductory special. It'll give you a chance to come in and see in person how the benefits you're looking for will be developed and just how wonderful classes are. You can give us a call at 303-428-5377 or you can register right here on our website.

Martial Arts Lessons for You: Westminster Edition

Colorado has become synonymous with health and fitness. Mountain biking & hiking in the summer, and skiing/snowboarding & snowshoeing in the winter, Colorado is filled with calorie burning activities. But, maybe you're looking for something new. Taekwondo is one calorie burning activity that you might not think of in the mountains.

Taekwondo in Westminster is rapidly growing activity at the campus of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. The classes are led by highly qualified instructors and provide high intensity, calorie burning fun. The classes contain students of all different experience levels. The levels are distinguished by belts from white all the way up to degrees of black belts. The classes are tailored to be challenging for the beginners and advanced at the same time. Almost all of the exercises are done just by stretching and moving your own body without any extra equipment or weights. Imagine getting a tremendous workout that builds muscle, cardiovascular endurance, flexibility and agility using nothing but your own body. The workout can be experienced and shared by all the members of your family.

The Westminster school of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is located off of W. 88th Avenue and Garrison Street, in the Lake Plaza shopping center. It's easily accessible for everyone in Westminster, Arvada and Broomfield.

The workouts in the Westminster Taekwondo location are performed in a clean and spacious workout room. The carpeted custom suspension floors provide a support and cushion for joints while working out. It's hard to explain how much fun jumping and exercising can be with that little extra bounce in your step. That little extra cushion gives the younger students more confidence and gives the older adult student a little bit of a fountain of youth.

Even if you aren't in the class, there are many large windows that allow parents or children to view from the lobby. The lobby area provides a comfortable area to watch all the fun happening behind the glass. The school is also located next the Liks Ice Cream shop so you can enjoy some ice cream before or after class. The Westminster school is also near Sideways, I Love Sushi and Amadeo's Italian restaurants for some good food after a great workout.

The Westminster campus of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute is lead by Master Erik Albrechtson, a 5th degree black belt in Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo. Master Albrechtson has help from several other “home grown” assistant instructors. All instructors of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute started out as white belt students in the school. Each instructor has been developed and educated in the best methods of instruction in martial arts. Quality instruction provides the basis for getting the most out each class.

The experiences at Westminster school aren't limited to classes. The Colorado Taekwondo Institute provides events year round to meet with the other 5 campuses around Colorado and the Denver metro area. The events include tournaments where we compete with other equally aged and experienced students. Other events include weekend getaways in the mountains where students can focus on having fun and learning while enjoying the beautiful mountain scenery.

So, when your looking to try something out of the normal mountain routine, the Westminster campus of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute can provide martial arts classes in westminster, which is a great way to cross-train for any of the other normal activities. The increase in core strength, flexibility, and endurance can be a benefit for mountain biking, rock climbing and skiing. Try it out! Give us a call at 303-428-5377 to learn more.

The Colorado Taekwondo Institute: Westminster School

Are you looking for karate or martial arts in Westminster, CO? Well then look no further- the Colorado Taekwondo Institute Westminster location offers dynamic classes for all ages and abilities. Each class provides hands on instruction from our black belt instructors. Students learn the Korean martial art of Taekwondo while developing self-control, self-esteem, self-defense skills and of course physical fitness. At the Westminster location our students are offered goals and challenges to complete throughout their training.

The Westminster school was founded in 2005 by Master Erik Albrechtson, 5th degree black belt in Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo. Each class is taught by a certified AMASEA black belt instructor, that started with the CTI as a white belt. There are also upper belt students in every class assist the instructor to give students one-on-one time with an upper belt to focus on new techniques and areas in need of improvement. Master Albrechtson brings a level of educational training and experience to the Colorado Taekwondo Institute to provide superior classes to all of our students.

We offer a wide variety of martial arts classes for students of all abilities and ages. Students start classes as young as two years old and we even have students in their 60s working out. Classes are divided by age, so each class can be taught at the appropriate level for each of the students.

Located near 88th Avenue and Garrison, the Westminster location is conveniently located and provides classes for students in North Arvada, Westminster and Broomfield. The Westminster school is in the corner unit of the Lake Plaza Shopping Center, which houses a Diamond Shamrock, Global Thrift, Lake Plaza Barbers, Applauze Salon, Maitri Yoga, Sano's Amadeos Italian Kitchen, and Sideways Sports Lounge.

Here at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute, we make the educational aspect of martial arts an important part of our program.  We offer three student manuals ranging from white belt through black belt plus a manual specifically for the junior students.  A written and physical test are required at each belt level.  Above and beyond the regular classes, we offer four interschool tournaments every year as well as our yearly Expo.  The Expo is an entire weekend dedicated to martial arts learning and is open to all students.  Additionally, we offer a Symposium every year for the upper belts to study advanced topics like how to teach and judge as well as advanced physical aspects of our martial art.

Come stop by for our summer special for new students. We are located on the southwest corner of 88th Avenue and Field Street, next to Applauze Salon. We have new student specials that allow you to experience our program without the stress of a long term commitment. Stop by or give us a call at 303-428-5377 and we'll provide you the best in karate or martial arts training in Westminster, CO.

Meet the CTI: Westminster School

Amidst the numerous martial arts schools in Colorado, it’s hard to find one with an overall great environment. The Colorado Taekwondo Institute, Westminster Campus, prides itself on maintaining a top-notch school with an atmosphere largely focused on providing students with the best instruction.

Located on West 88th Avenue, about a mile west of Wadsworth, the Westminster location rests on the border of Arvada and Westminster, making it accessible to students from all around the area. The school neighbors several wonderful small businesses in the shopping center including Applauze Salon, Global Thrift, and Peak Health Chiropractic & Acupuncture. The Westminster Campus is also in close range to various elementary, middle, and high schools. Currently, Moo Sul Kwan instructor, Master Erik Albrechtson, teaches before and after-school programs at both Red Rocks Elementary and West Woods Elementary, and the Westminster Campus itself provides classes at the school for kids and adults of all ages.
ol programs at both

What’s really special about the CTI Westminster Taekwondo school is the set-up within its walls. In its 4,500 square foot space, it houses three spacious workout areas, all with custom-built suspension floors made to maximize workout benefits. Students are able to practice and experience their martial arts training in both carpeted and matted workout rooms.  Each workout space contains shelves with plenty of room for students to put their workout bags on while participating in the classes. All workout rooms also include everything instructors use on special occasion to hone in on specific skills. These items consist of square targets, pork chops, Wavemaster bags, and extra sparring pads and boards.

Westminster CTI’s two largest workout rooms come equipped with ample viewing areas for family and friends to stay while the students are in class. Each area has comfortable chairs and benches that face a window looking directly into the classroom so viewers can easily watch the students.

The Colorado Taekwondo Institute, Westminster location proves to be a clean, healthy, and professional location from the moment you walk in the door. The entire school is cleaned on a daily basis to assure a sanitary and hygienic place at all times. The lobby of the Westminster school has chairs and a shoe rack to accommodate those as soon as they walk in. On the bulletin boards hung on the walls, we display any and all upcoming events, as well as special offers. Take-home calendars are also easily available every month. In addition, the lobby holds the CTI Pro-Shop, a one-stop shop for all of your Taekwondo gear needs. Everything from sparring pads, uniforms, and patches to Taekwondo key chains, car stickers, and student manuals are on display so students are able to view them. All prices are posted on the wall directly adjacent to the pro-shop, and instructors are always available to answer any questions. We keep everything displayed in stock so we can have it available to any student immediately for purchase. Everyone uses the same gear as we have been since the school has started, and we guarantee its quality.

The Westminster school is dedicated to providing students the absolute best experience which is why we have created an ideal environment that will serve all of your needs as you journey in Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo. We hope you take the time to come check out our campus!

Taekwondo and Developing Physical Fitness

By Nathaniel McKernan, 1st dan

The five components of health related physical fitness are improved through martial arts training at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute. However, we might as well ask the question, “What are the five components of health related physical fitness?”
They are:

• muscular endurance-- the ability to use your muscles for a long time; 
• muscular strength-- the ability to perform feats that requires strength; 
• flexibility-- the maximum range of motion that your joints can reach;  
• body composition-- the optimum body fat ratio;
• cardio-respiratory endurance-- ability to perform feats of either physical endurance or strength and be able to bring oxygen into the lung at the same time.  

All of these components of physical fitness are part of the Taekwondo training.

Now, just in case you didn't know, Taekwondo is a martial art which demands physical fitness and abilities in order to get good at the martial art.  You have to work hard and improve the body.  And, when you work hard at something like Taekwondo, you get a good workout.  And, to become even better at Taekwondo, you will begin the whole cycle again.  So as you work hard in Taekwondo classes at our Westminster location, you will improve the five components of health related physical fitness.

But how?  Well, let’s start with muscular strength.  In Taekwondo, we always do our exercises-- jumping jacks; push ups, etc. and these exercises help build up muscular strength over time.  But it is not just exercises that gives you muscular strength;  doing classes over a long period of time builds muscles.  Think about it, if you were to do kicks over and over again, or push-ups over and over again, you would build up muscular strength.  I myself can vouch for this.  When I first started, I could not do a single push-up (actually, for the first three years, I was doing a bad imitation of a push-up for building arm strength) and doing multiple amount of kicks made my leg muscles sore.  Now,  it’s a different story.  I can do push-ups and also do many kicks without my muscles being sore.  However, it took effort to get that strength.  Working hard in each class helped build muscular strength.

Now, what about muscular endurance?  What about the ability to keep your muscles going even when you are tired?  This is probably the easiest physical benefit you would achieve.   At first, it is difficult to keep one's muscles going during class because you have not developed very good muscular endurance yet.  Even really fit athletes sometimes have trouble because, odds are, they don't practice muscular endurance for all body muscles and Taekwondo uses all the body muscles.  However, over time, you will develop strong muscular endurance.  On that same note, you accomplish the same for cardio respiratory endurance.  For breathing, it would be very similar to muscular endurance; you would be able to breath better during long workouts then when you first started.  I am a living testimony.  When I first started, my muscles were aching and I was breathing hard after only 75 jumping jacks.  However, through years of continued participation, I am now able to do many more jumping jacks without breathing hard or getting sore muscles.  However, getting good at both does require you to try hard.  Just like muscular strength, the more effort you put in, the better you will get.

Next up is flexibility.  I am pretty sure you might have seen those gymnast be able to do those splits in mid-air and other feats and you probably thought “Could I ever be that flexible?”  Well, it is possible, and you can get it from continued participation in Taekwondo.  On your first day, you probably could not kick very high.  However, after continued participation, your kicks start to get higher, and higher, and higher.  Eventually, you would be able to kick so high that you would be considered “flexible.”  How?  Simple.  Stretching.  Every time we do class, we stretch to make ourselves more flexible.  And every time we stretch, our muscles extend a bit.  After a while, you would begin to realize that you are kicking a bit higher.  And, after more stretching, you would eventually be able to kick higher than you thought possible. This increased flexibility will also carry into other aspects of your life!

Last of all, there is body composition.  It is pretty much common knowledge that working out helps you get the best lean  body weight to fat ratio.  Well, Taekwondo demands physical exertion!  Or, in simpler terms, when you practice Taekwondo, you sweat.  That’s called a workout.  And when you workout, you get less fat.

So as you can see, classes at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute, including the Westminster location, does address all the five components of health-related physical fitness.  By doing Taekwondo, you can improve in all these areas.

Driving By and Wondering "What is Colorado Taekwondo?"

By Ian Randall, 1st dan

When someone drives past the one of the schools of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute, including the Westminster school, and sees "Taekwondo” they probably don’t think much of it, or think of the typical martial arts stereotypes. This can be expected, as the deeper benefits of Taekwondo cannot be seen unless experienced for an extended period of time. They do not envision how Taekwondo could help with concentration, balance, eye hand coordination, or even dealing with certain disabilities.

When I first started Taekwondo, I did not see these hidden benefits, and did not for a few years. The aspects of Taekwondo that I have benefited the most from have been balance, strength, and hand eye coordination. These have assisted me most with basketball.

In Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo, there is a large variety of kicks which require balance, control, and concentration. The act of rising out of a front stance, pivoting the front foot, locking out a side kick, and re-chambering the kick without stumbling is challenging and demands these skills. These skills are not only applicable in Taekwondo, but in basketball as well. Being able to dribble full speed, stop on a dime, and shoot a jumper with a hand in your face is very difficult and demands great body control. Practicing the basic kicks of Taekwondo consistently over the past 11 years has given me the ability to do this. They have given me the balance to stop on a dime, the body control not to fade away from the basket once I am airborne, and the concentration to remain poised and focused on the basket with a defender inches away.

Taekwondo has also helped me with core, upper body, hand, and leg strength. The sit-ups and abdominal work we do every class helps with balance on kicks and tight stomachs in breaking. The tricep push-ups give us great upper body strength and help improve speed on our punches. Fingertip push-ups strengthen the fingers, enabling us to have tighter han
ds. Holding low stances in basics and poomse also help with leg strength. All of these benefits are needed in basketball as well. The abdominal and upper body strength helps me get past a more physical, larger, and more athletic defender. The hand and finger strength enables me to have a better grip on the ball while helping prevent jammed fingers. The added leg strength makes me more explosive while preventing fatigue after I have been in a low stance for an extended period of time.

Taekwondo has helped me improve my hand eye coordination as well. In Taekwondo, hand eye coordination is demanded for punches, kicks, or hitting an exact target in sparring or breaking. This is easily translated into skills needed in basketball such as: ball handling, shooting, catching, and throwing on target passes.

Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo has countless benefits, but it’s easy transition of skills from sport to sport is very obvious. Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo and it’s time tested routines have given me balance to be the shooter I am today, the strength to be faster and more explosive, and the eye hand coordination to be a great ball handler as well.

So the next time you drive past the Westminster school of the Colorado Taekwondo Institute martial arts school, think of one of the positive aspects training can give you or a family member.

Learning the Sport with Martial Arts Training

One thing to know about any of the martial arts is a person should not attempt to make the mistake of learning without a qualified instructor. Only by obtaining martial arts training can a person (adult or child) expect to learn enough to compete and become an expert in specific types of martial arts.

Choosing a Good School

Choosing the best martial arts school can be very difficult when you consider there are millions of schools just looking for an opportunity to have your business. Parents have a difficult time not only the martial art for their children but also the best school to meet the needs of the children. While no individual art is best for every child, martial arts in general provide many benefits that suit all children.

The biggest challenge is finding a good martial arts training instructor. Unfortunately not all schools have formal qualification guidelines for the teachers. This doesn't mean those schools do not employ good teachers, but the late of guidelines definitely make it difficult for parents who are trying to choose a good martial arts teacher for their children.

Familiarize Yourself with a Few Martial Arts Disciplines

Before you make a decision about the martial art form that is right for your child, take some time to learn about a few of the mainstream martial arts. You want to learn what they have to offer by sitting through a few classes. For instance, the technique players use in judo may cause someone to become pinned to the ground—this would not be a good sport for a claustrophobic child.

Conduct Some Research

The internet makes it very easy to take the time to research before making a decision about martial arts training for your child. The place to begin is to make a list of the schools in your local area and seek out websites for those facilities. The focus of your research should be to find a school that offers a formal program of education for its teachers. You want to search out schools that offer teaching ranks in addition to black belt ranking. These teaching ranks are a formal way of passing the marital art on to the student. This shows that teaching areas such as self discipline and self control are equally important in teaching sparring to a child.      

Be Happy with the Instructor Before You Choose the Facility

You don’t want to look at the facility until you are satisfied with the instructor. For instance, the training hall should be immaculate. You might be able to ascertain this if you see students cleaning before and after the training session. Do not see cleaning as menial forced labor but rather a task that shows the students care about their teacher and have a desire to preserve their art. This is something that may provide points to a small school that doesn't have the resources to provide formalized teaching ranks.

Be Aware of the Costs You Will Incur

Before you enroll your child in any martial arts training program including Colorado Taekwondo you need to be sure you know how much it will cost. You need to be aware that while there are great profit making businesses, there are also some non-profit schools that rely on the involvement of the students in order to remain open. Do not allow cost alone to define a great school, but this may be a tie-breaker for parents, especially those on a strict budget. There are even schools that arrange to pick your child up at his regular school, teach him martial arts on a daily basis and provide time for the completion of homework, but this cost will be extremely high. If you opt for the non-profit school (the least expensive), you need to keep in mind you or your child may need to volunteer time and effort for the facility to remain open.

Choose a School with a Local Standing

The school you choose should have a voice in your community. This shows it is interested in the community and the students who live and attend school in that community.

CTI Leadership

By Mark Scott, red belt

Leadership requires many traits including being knowledgeable, responsible, decisive, capable, and selfless.  Leadership requires knowledge and credibility to create the feeling of trust with the follower.  The trust might take a long period of time, so the behavior must be consistent.

Leaders must act responsibly to direct the goals for the group in a manner that creates the best outcome for the group.  This direction must also be decisive for the leader to keep focus for the group to achieve the goals.  The leader should also be capable and willing to perform any tasks directed to the followers which will create loyalty.  By being willing to do the same tasks asked of any member, the leader proves the selfless quality.

Being a leader is different than being the manager.  At work, there are many managers that can direct the workers.  The leaders are the people that have proven to act responsibly and with integrity.  Leaders are the people that can accurately answer questions.  Also, a leader might not know the answer, but the leader can either find the answer or provide the direction to search for the answer.

The leader also provides a good example.  Others in the company can see the true leader doing what is necessary to achieve the goals.  A true leader at work also knows and uses the strengths of those around him.  I can become a better leader at work by doing my job to the best of my ability.  To become a leader, I should keep learning to become better.  I should also know when to help and where to get help when I need it.  The more I learn, the more I become more capable and confident.  After a time, I will become known for giving responsible advice and taking the appropriate actions.

At home, the leader must also be willing to be selfless and caring in relationships.  The leader must be responsible in the big decisions.  Creating trust at home is one of the most important qualities.

When performing sports, trust is also very important for the team aspect.  Another important quality for a leader in sports is to be the hardest worker.  The hardest worker will perform the best and will become the example.  The leader in sports will also show the correct attitude, showing sportsmanship whether winning or losing.

CTI students should be leaders in all aspects of their lives because of the qualities gained through the CTI training.  The CTI students work hard and have discipline derived from the hard work that can be applied to any area in life.  The CTI students learn to be responsible through the control required by having the ability to hurt others physically, but the knowledge to know how to hold off and maintain control.  CTI students also learn respect for others through competition and working out together.  The CTI student also learns the necessity of following the rules necessary for being a part of society.  By following the rules, a leader can set examples for others with lower moral values.

The positive attributes of the CTI student coupled with the confidence gained by leading and training, requires the CTI student to be an active member of the community.  The desire to help others and to do the right thing should be a driving principle for leading and taking responsibility as a community.

Ways to Stay Fit and Healthy with Taekwondo

Many people search for a way to stay healthy in their mind and in their body. People try all sorts of workout routines and sports. But there is one discipline which can yield a healthier mind and body, and that is the martial art of Taekwondo.

Taekwondo is a brilliant workout. Combined with punching with both arms, kicking with both feet, and bouncing on your toes as you practice sparring moves you will see the positive effects on your physical health right away.

For many, a Taekwondo martial arts program will strengthen their body and improve their overall health through intense physical exercise and hours of training. With Isometric exercises coupled with dynamic tension movements it will allow you to gain better muscle tone and more strength. An ongoing regiment of safe and simple stretching methods will improve your flexibility. This along with breathing and concentration exercises lead to sharper reflexes and senses.

After a few weeks or month practicing Taekwondo countless people feel calmer and more able to clearly cope with matters in their own lives with superior focus.

Students of all ages who have practiced Taekwondo have said to experience:

• Increased strength and stamina
• Reduced stress
• Improved agility and reflexes
• Improved concentration and self-esteem
• Improved leadership skills
• Improved muscle tone and appearance
• Greater discipline
• Improved confidence
• Improved flexibility
• The ability to achieve goals
• Respect for other class members

Starting children practicing kids Taekwondo as soon as possible is recommended. And as the child learns to kick, block and punch with both arms their physical fitness and dexterity begins to develop and build up both sides of the body.  By studying Taekwondo forms and body movements, concentration and focus are improved.

Another great reason to get children learning Taekwondo is for self-defense. There are many girls who get good exercise doing Taekwondo, but they also are learning techniques that can help keep them safe wherever they are and whatever situation they might be in. This of course is relevant to boys as well.

Taekwondo has also been known to enhance ones self-esteem by increasing their physical and mental powers. This also aligns with confidence building by encouraging them to succeed and take control of their life.

The discipline of Taekwondo leads to boosted energy, enhanced health and fitness, better coordination, and elevated self-esteem. These qualities are vital to a happier, longer life.

My Very First CTI Picnic

By Uriah Hernandez, orange belt

My name is Uriah Hernandez.  I go to the Westminster Campus,  I am an orange belt, and I finally went to my 1st CTI Picnic and to be honest with you, I was frightened I almost chickened out and didn't go.  Gladly I did go and the picnic turned out awesome.

The afternoon started off with a very tasty lunch followed by a big plate full of deserts.  There was cookies, brownies, cake and ice cream it was all really good but made my tummy upset later that night, hahaha!

Everyone was finishing up their lunch I was throwing away some plates and I turned around to find Mr. Evans with dozens of eggs in his arms.  All I remember is thinking oh no what are we doing.  I grabbed my little brother Julian, we went and checked it out.  An egg toss!  How fun!  Not remembering that my brother is only 5 years old and not that skilled at being gentle I said, “Julian lets be partners."  So here we go, for a 5 year old he is doing pretty good but then he throws an egg at my face!  Quickly I dodged the egg it crashed down on the floor and I see that it is all broken into little pieces but its hard-boiled, yeah safe!! SPLAT!!  Not even a split second I get an egg thrown to the back of the ear.  I turn around to find that the partners next to me did not have the best aim for the other person’s hands. hahaha!  Gladly the water fight was going to be coming up so I wouldn't be so sticky…. and smelly.

Before the water fight started we got to slingshot water balloons at the new 1st, 2nd, and 3rd dans.  The next thing you know, everyone has their squirt guns we were all getting soaked.  I thought I had a pretty good plan to get Mr. Sandusky with a bucket full of water but he was one step ahead of me because when I went to go and dump it on him he pushed it towards me and all the water went dripping down my hair.  Not such a good idea.

To end our day we all started to cool down with a game of volleyball that was a blast!  I was getting ready to leave when I stopped and thought of what a great day I had.it is a really cool experience when you get to meet new people or even just learn new things about the people you already knew, its really fun when we have days like the picnic where y
ou can just go and hang out with your instructors and just get to know them because you don’t really get to do that in class so when you do finally see their funny side or sporty side you are just like wow this person and I have a whole lot in common and it brings you closer to them.

At the picnic I learned that we are truly a family a CTI Taekwondo family and no matter how bad I smelt or how sticky I was going home one thing is for sure I am definitely going again next year.

Fear

By Rhonda Lawrence, brown belt

We must be constantly aware of our surroundings

When I grew up in the 1970-80’s in a small town in Iowa, there was not much to fear. Occasionally there was a brawl between kids after school, some bullying;there was the threat of the “belt” hanging behind the door of the principal’s office for those rare unruly kids (back in the day when that kind of discipline was acceptable) and,  I suppose, I could potentially feel the wrath of my parents if I stepped outside the wide boundaries that a small town setting established for me.  In reality, I never was afraid for my life or safety, not by a long shot. Looking back now, this “Leave it Beaver”, “rose-colored glasses”background and unrealistic view of security helped foster a hefty amount of misguided confidence. A belief that I would be able to “handle” myself if ever I were put in a bad situation.  This perception was obviously foolish and unwarranted solely due to my lack of training or education to defend myself, but when you are oblivious to something,  I guess that should go without saying.

I remember the first time this erroneous notion was tested.

My parents brought me along to Las Vegas to meet an aunt and uncle who was attending a computer conference there. It was an involuntary vacation for me, for I wanted to stay and have fun with my friends during that summer break. I was the youngest in my family; and at age 16 both my sister and brother had already left the coup. Rather than leaving me home, my mom and dad opted for toting me to a place that in the 1980’s had very little to offer a teenager. While the Las Vegas ambiance had peaked some interest in me (I’d never been in a big city before), I didn’t know really anything about the city before I went. Clearly, its environment was much different than my hometown of 380 people; but my mindset, and that of my parents, regarding my safety wasn’t adjusted. I was able to walk from place to place on the strip to find something to do (whilemy age kept me out of any casino that my family was to patronize). After browsing through the mall at Caesar’s Palace at dusk on that very first full day in the city, I made my way to the Circus Circus Casino. It surely would have some entertainment that would be age appropriate!

As I made my way down the mile and half distance from Caesars to the Circus Circus, my first observation was that there was no one else on the sidewalk. The distance between each colossal casino was considerable but it wouldn’t have kept any Iowan from walking as it was my only way of transportation!  Notably, I hadn’t taken into account a number of things.  Number one was the heat.   It appeared sensible then that most people on the strip in Las Vegas where adults visiting the desert and theydrove or took a cab to stay cooler.  I remember thinking about that fact and dismissing the idea that this would create a problem (more than just sweat)for me.  Until... It seemed to me what happened next was like something out of a movie. A black van with dark tinted windows pulled up on the road beside me, as I walked on the sidewalk. He stopped temporarily while the driver slowly rolled down his passenger side window.  He then started pacing me as I kept walking. Traffic on the strip wasn’t moving along at a slow pace by any means, so it was very obvious that the van was there to engage me in some manner.

A voice sounded, “Do you need a ride?”

“No, thank you”, I said, briefly contemplating that I had put myself in one of those precarious situations I mentioned above.

I kept walking, not waiting for a response, but now at a brisker pace. With my head down and showing no interest at all, I anticipated that the gentleman in the van would go about his business and I would eventually write off the encounter as me being paranoid.

My heart sank and I became very cognizant when I saw the van pull into the first access in front of me and turn around, discernibly waiting for me.  I assessed my position. I was still about halfway in between two casinos with nowhere to go. The “pull in” in which the stranger was now parked went to nothing but sagebrush. Just undeveloped land.

‘Okay’, I said to myself, ’consider your options’. Should I turn around and run? Should I yell?  Would anyone in a speeding car at dim light notice anything happening on the side of the road? For the first time in my life, I didn’t know what to do. It was an uncertain predicament. My heart began to race and then I felt it...   Real fear.

As best I could, I decided to show no emotion and kept walking to the next casino. It looked to be the closest and best option to me. With the van only a few feet away, I arced my path to stay as far as I could from it. The driver’s window was now open, the man’s voice again soliciting if I wanted a ride.

“No, thank you”, I replied again, head down, continuing my pace, walking past front of the van, closer to my destination.

Just then I realized that I now had my back toward the van. With a quick panic, I think to myself,  ‘That was dumb.  Now what do I do?’ In anticipation my ears perked up trying to be aware of any sense of noise. My eyes rolled  to the side as far as I could see without turning my head. Suddenly, I see and hear him get out of the van. The sound of his stride was getting closer and closer to me. His request to “let me give you a ride” being repeated.

I wish I could say that I “did the right thing” to protect myself, but I can’t.  I was lucky. The man did eventually just get back into his van, stop one more time next to me on the sidewalk and ask if I wanted a ride.  He ultimately vanished, but he never disappeared from my revelation of a new awareness.

I went back home wiser than I left, but it wasn’t until I heard much later about the capture a serial killer in Las Vegas that left unsuspecting girls in the desert that I knew how truly fortunate I could have been.

Rabbi Uses Martial Arts as Physical Therapy for Children with Disabilities

For Rabbi Gary Moskowitz, efforts to hold a clinic at Glendale’s Forest Park Jewish Center about integrating martial arts into health care and education for children with disabilities and illnesses has been a long and winding road.

Rabbi Gary Moskowitz, uses martial arts as a method of therapy for children battling cancer and other illnesses or disabilities.

Moskowitz grew up in the South Bronx in the 1970s. He was often targeted and victimized through robberies for wearing a yarmulke. By the time he was 14 he had already been on the wrong end of four armed robberies.

Moskowitz, went on to become a New York City police officer, private investigator, teacher, principal, and social worker.

He began training in karate as a child for self defense. Now has gone on to found a nonprofit called Martial Arts Therapy.

Martial Arts Therapy combines several forms of martial arts to provide children battling cancer and other serious illnesses and disabilities to teach them methods in pain management, physical therapy and deep relaxation.

On one Tuesday afternoon, Moskowitz stood in front of a group of martial arts instructors, physical and occupational therapists, and special education teachers gathered at the clinic in Glendale.

He provided them with an outline of how he hopes educators and health workers can include martial arts in their work.

“Most people don’t know what the martial arts are – they think it’s a punch and a kick but martial arts is a health system,” said Moskowitz, who has taught martial arts to the police, self-defense to women and hostage situation tactics to Israeli anti-terrorist units. “Martial arts is about living a healthy life, about nutrition, about exercise – it’s how to use force for healing purposes.”

He has seen firsthand how teaching martial arts has helped to heal, if not heal, at least help children who have, a range of disabilities.

“They push themselves because they want to,” said Moskowitz, who himself has a daughter with special needs. “They push themselves more than they ever thought they could do. It’s all about empowerment.”

The leader of the Self Defense Academy on Kissena Boulevard in Kew Gardens Hills, Avi Avramcheyiv, volunteers as a coach for Moskowitz and said he hopes to help the rabbi build support for an increased use of martial arts in places like schools and children’s hospitals.

“We work with kids in wheelchairs, kids who are very sick, and we want them to know they can do things with whatever they have,” said Avramcheyiv.

Moskowitz said his main goal is to continue providing free therapy for children in his own center manned by volunteers like Avramcheyiv.

“I’m convinced we can help a lot of children,” Moskowitz said.

A CTI Taekwondo Birthday

By Hope Morgan, 1st dan

I was a ten year old orange belt when I had my birthday party at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute, Westminster Campus.  I remember thinking it was the absolute best thing in the world – to be able to show off my “skills” to my friends, to combine such a significant part of my life with such an important celebration.  Now, as a seventeen year old black belt, I assist my mom and instructor with birthday parties for their younger students.

Just recently, a student of my mom’s, Lydia Willis, had her seventh birthday party at  the CTI, and I had the pleasure to help.  I got to watch her have the time of her life!  I got to see how being “black belt for a day” and working out up front made her ecstatic.  It took me back to my own birthday, and how that experience as such a young child impacted me in the most surprising ways.  It wasn’t hard to see how pumped up Lydia was.

Hope Morgan and Lydia

It’s always been tradition that the instructor helps the student cut the cake with a long sword.  Before the party had begun, Lydia had gone to her mom and said, “Mom, I get to cut the cake with a big sword!”  I don’t blame her for being so excited; it was definitely one of the most memorable moments from my party.  I really wanted to be the one to share that experience with Lydia, and I had to practically beg my mom to let me do the honors.  When you think about it, that one slice only lasts for a minute, but it’s something unique that any kid would be excited to do.  And Lydia was definitely excited.  I don’t think she stopped smiling and giggling throughout the whole thing!

After the party, my instructor, Master Albrechtson, pulled up a picture of he and I cutting my cake with the sword on my birthday that happened so long ago.  Next to it, he pulled up a picture of Lydia and I cutting her cake.  It was so insanely crazy to see!  I got to share one of my best days with Master Albrechtson, and now I get the gratification of being that iconic figure in a younger child’s life.  One doesn’t grow out of those memories.  Now my wish is for Lydia to continue her journey through Moo Sul Kwan Taekwondo, and someday be the one assisting or teaching her own student’s birthday parties. Maybe one day we can add a picture of a Ms. Willis helping an excited student cut the cake.

A Taekwondo birthday party at the CTI is really one of the best things for a child to experience.  It brings out that pride in students, allows them to showcase their skills to their friends and family, and enjoy a fun celebration working out with their loved ones.  While I may be “too old” for a birthday party at the CTI, I will always have the pleasure of sharing ones with younger students at my campus, and that in itself is the most rewarding thing I could ask for.

Westminster and Littleton: Taekwondo Training in the Denver Area

Westminster Taekwondo and Littleton Taekwondo are two places you can come to learn about the practice of taekwondo and also about yourself. If your life ever feels out of control and your mind scattered, come and see what the peace and focus training of taekwondo can do for you.

When was the last time you dedicated yourself to something? Was it a hobby? A job? Your family? With so many obligations in life, it can be difficult to remember what it feels like to set your sights on something, and go at it with everything you have until at last it is achieved. We at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute understand this drive and need for achievement, and we invite you to join us in a group setting.

If you are living in the Denver area, there are a couple of campuses you should come check out for yourself. We have Westminster CTI Taekwondo, which situates you in a beautiful setting next to the mountains, a perfect backdrop for the peace of mind your journey will be built on. Are you further South? Check out Littleton CTI Taekwondo, another site conducive to a focused, ready mind.

Wherever you choose to practice, you will notice something in common: you will be surrounded by other people motivated by the physical and mental challenge that faces them when they enter the taekwondo institute. And while it is commendable to chase your goal completely by yourself, many people find it not only easier to stay motivated in a same-goal community, they find their victories and improvements more meaningful when they can share them with others.

Need to blow off steam after a long, stressful day? Want to feel your muscles move after sitting in a desk too long? Our taekwondo institute can get you up and moving again. A sedentary life can lead to mental strain such as boredom and discontent, and it also brings about physical problems like obesity and a weakening of the heart. Practicing taekwondo for a few hours a week can do wonders for your body, toning muscles and teaching you self defense skills to keep yourself safe. It also teaches you to take control of your body, aligning it with your mind.

Of course, there are many martial arts schools to choose from. But Westminster CTI Taekwondo and Littleton CTI Taekwondo are two places you can come to learn about the practice of taekwondo and also about yourself. If your life ever feels out of control and your mind scattered, come and see what the peace and focus training of taekwondo can do for you. Learn among the company of friends what it means to take control of your mind and become a positive force in your community.

Gaining Confidence from MSK Taekwondo

By Zach Greaves, red belt

The Colorado Taekwondo Institute teaches their students how to be confident in everything they do, to learn how to persevere, while showing them how to become leaders and teache
rs.

Every class we ‘kihap’ or yell our hearts out.  We bring our winning spirits every day and we are asked questions that are difficult, and sometimes, as upper belts, are asked to help others.  All these things take confidence that is developed on the journey to the very special Moo Sul Kwan black belt.

At the beginning of training it’s not expected for you to be confident - but that is why MSK Taekwondo is so great because the training breeds confidence and it is the place to go to when you want to develop confidence.

Throughout the journey to MSK /AMASEA black belt, your skills are tested through trials and crucibles of wit, strength, flexibility, eagerness, dedication, discipline and confidence.  Quitting is an option, but having the drive and strive to keep going and excelling and never giving up is a MSK black belt trait that is highly coveted.  Not everyone has this trait but it can be learned through the confidence that builds inside of the student. from good training.

It’s weird to think about going through life without confidence.  It would be really hard, but MSK martial arts demand it.  So we learn it and master it to become smarter and stronger.  It also just makes things more fun when everyone is really smart and confident in what they are doing.  It makes the environment safe, it's more enjoyable and you reach higher levels in your understanding of the art.

Confidence is really a big part of life.  Having confidence and a determination to succeed is the number one facet to achieving a Moo Sul Kwan black belt in life.

CTI Mission Statement

The Colorado Taekwondo Institute has been teaching educational martial arts in Colorado since 1983. We teach our students self-defense, confidence, respect, focus along with physical fitness, but ultimatly the mission of our school is:

"To teach and encourage world-class leadership through educational excellence and Moo Sul Kwan martial arts traditions"

On our school patch we have a latin phrase, "discit qui ducit" which means, "who learns leads." We want to turn each and every one of our students into educated leaders. For children this means learning the value of education and developing them into leaders at school and h
ome, and for adults it means learning the importance of continued education and development of leadership skills at work and home.

Want to learn more about what we have to offer? Go to www.StartMartialArts.com or give us a call at 303.428.5377 to learn more about our dynamic classes!