Questions Parents Actually Ask
Everything you need to know about training at USTMA — from your first class to earning a black belt.
Your First Steps
Children can start as young as 3 years old in our Tiny Tigers program. We have age-appropriate classes for every level — kids, teens, and adults. There is no upper age limit.
Yes. We offer a free trial week so you and your child can experience our programs firsthand. No commitment, no pressure. Sign up on our website or call us to schedule your first class.
Comfortable athletic clothing like a t-shirt and sweatpants is perfect for the first class. We train barefoot — no shoes needed on the mat. A uniform (dobok) can be purchased after enrollment.
Pricing varies based on the program and schedule you choose. We offer monthly tuition with no long-term contracts required. Contact us at (703) 777-1000 for Leesburg or (540) 955-0055 for Berryville to discuss the best plan for your family.
Absolutely not. We have students who start as teens and adults with zero experience. Taekwondo is for every age and fitness level. Many of our adult students say they wish they had started sooner.
Safety is our top priority. Our instructors are trained to teach age-appropriate techniques in a controlled environment. Students learn at their own pace, and sparring is optional and closely supervised with full protective gear.
Classes, Belts & Competition
The journey to black belt typically takes 3 to 5 years of consistent training, depending on the student's dedication, age, and progress. At USTMA, belts are earned — never given on a schedule.
We follow the official Kukkiwon (World Taekwondo) belt system: white, yellow, green, blue, red, and black, with intermediate levels in between. Each rank has specific requirements in technique, form, and character.
We offer classes Monday through Saturday with multiple time slots for different age groups. Schedules vary by location. Contact Leesburg at (703) 777-1000 or Berryville at (540) 955-0055 for the current class schedule.
Yes. USTMA students regularly compete in regional and national Taekwondo tournaments. Competition is optional but encouraged for students who want to test their skills. Our instructors provide dedicated tournament preparation.
USTMA is led by Grandmaster Eung Gil Choi, a 9th degree black belt with a Master's degree in Physical Education. We teach authentic Kukkiwon-certified World Taekwondo with a focus on character development, not just kicks. Our instructors were all trained directly under Grandmaster Choi — that lineage and consistency is rare.
After School, Camps & More
Yes. Our Leesburg and Berryville locations offer after school programs for grades K-8. We provide pickup from local schools, homework time, free play, and daily Taekwondo training. Parents provide their own snack. Pickup is at 5:30 PM.
Yes. We run summer camp programs with a mix of Taekwondo training, fitness activities, and fun. Contact us for upcoming camp dates and registration details.
Yes. We host Taekwondo-themed birthday parties at our academy. It's a unique, active experience that kids love — they get a real martial arts class as part of the celebration. Contact us to book.
Yes. We offer classes specifically for teens and adults at all experience levels. Whether you're a complete beginner or a returning martial artist, you're welcome. Many adults train alongside their children at different class times.
Our School, Our Team
Grandmaster Eung Gil Choi is the founder of USTMA and holds a 9th degree black belt — the highest rank in Taekwondo. He trained in Korea, holds a Master's degree in Physical Education, and has been teaching in Virginia since 1987. He is one of the most respected Taekwondo masters in the United States.
Our lead instructors include Master John Choi (6th degree, Leesburg) and Master James Choi (6th degree, Berryville), along with Master Al and a dedicated team of certified instructors. Every instructor was trained directly under Grandmaster Choi.
Kick Cancer Out of the World (KCOTW) is a foundation started by Grandmaster Choi in 1992 after losing his father to cancer. His goal is to donate $1,000,000 to cancer research and aid cancer patients in our community. Through annual tournaments and golf events, KCOTW has raised nearly $500,000 and partners with Inova Schar Cancer, Blue Ridge Hospice, and the American Cancer Society.
Yes. Our flagship academy is in Leesburg at 9 Cardinal Park Dr, SE (est. 1987), led by Master John Choi. Our Berryville academy is at 850 West Main Street, led by Master James Choi. Both locations offer the full USTMA curriculum.
Kukkiwon is the World Taekwondo headquarters in Seoul, South Korea. It is the governing body for dan (black belt) certification worldwide. USTMA's black belt ranks are certified through Kukkiwon, meaning they are internationally recognized and legitimate.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to answer anything. Call us, visit the academy, or sign up for a free trial week and see for yourself.