Tae Kwon Do is a philosophy, a way of life, and a living art. As a philosophy and a way of life, it is concerned with a better understanding of "self" through meditation, commitment, concentration, focus, achievement, and evaluation. This phenomenon of experiencing and understanding "self" is what is meant by the spirit of Tae Kwon Do. As a living art it is ultimate in "self-defense" and "physical fitness" for men, women, and children. The central purpose of Tae Kwon Do is the development of human beings with sound minds and bodies who find or create peace and harmony in their lives and the world around them. The Tae Kwon Do tradition is imparting a way of life to those who study it. It teaches self-confidence through discipline and patience. In life, it is important to fully appreciate the value of self-confidence to successfully attain one's goal. It is the single most important aspect of a Martial Artist's development and it cannot be given to the student, but must be generated and enhanced from within. By teaching the mind discipline, Tae Kwon Do opens paths that were once blocked by uncertainty and fear. Self-discipline builds character and character leads to good self-esteem. When one feels good and confident about himself, he is able to invest himself in helping others. By doing so, he adds to the betterment and goodwill of the world in which we live. Patience is a virtue that should be used to understand one's circumstances. It promotes clear thinking in the event of adversity. Patience not only insulates the Martial Artist from discouragement; it also helps him to maintain constant control of his emotions. The real value in Tae Kwon Do lies in what it can teach us about ourselves; that we can be more than what we are now; that we have no need of fear; and that our capacities for energy, awareness, compassion, and excellent health are far greater than what we know. Tae Kwon Do is not just kicking and punching. It is more than that. It is an ongoing test of physical and mental fitness, of stamina, perseverance, courage and creativity. It combines the best of mind and body discipline into an art form which can become a way of life. When correctly learned and used, it is the perfect physical fitness activity since it utilizes every muscle in the body while naturally regulating a person's weight. As a psychological stimulator, it develops flexibility, strength, muscle tone, speed, reflexes, and mental acuity.  Taken from the 1997 Lee's Tae Kwon Do Twin Cities Challenge Program
Tenets of Tae Kwon Do Tae Kwon Do transforms one's character and enables one to maintain composure and security, which will in turn create patience and modesty. This will eventually lead a person to overcome themselves with self-sacrifice, thus becoming an outstanding leader in society. Courtesy Be kind and treat everyone with respect. Respect is the nucleus to most all martial arts. It is essential that all students treat the instructors and classmates with the utmost respect. This is done by bowing often, shaking hands, saying "thank you". Respect must also be shown outside the studio. Integrity Be honest and always try to do the right thing. A very important quality for attaining black belt is integrity beyond reproach. Do not lie, steal, or cheat. If you do make a mistake correct it when possible, and do not repeat it. Perseverance Be patient with yourself and always keep trying. It is easy to give up when things get difficult. If you have a feasible goal, you should not let others discourage you. Try your hardest in everything you do and you will be rewarded. Self-Control Be humble. Control your words and actions. You need to take responsibility for what you say and do. Controlling anger is extremely important for a martial artist. Learning self-defense is a great responsibility. It is imperative to use the art appropriately - at the right time and place. Indomitable Spirit Have confidence, believe in yourself. The fire inside of you is a driving force to succeed in many things. Do not let others discourage or defeat you. You are valuable and can accomplish many things. Trust in yourself and know that you can do it! Tae Kwon Do is a Way of Life. Students are encouraged to live according to the Tenets of Tae Kwon Do!
Belt Ranks The Tae Kwon Do Belt System starts from 9th Kup and ends at 9th Dan. Nine is the sum of the five components (from the theory of Ohaeng Sol that describes the birth and death of all lives through interaction of the five components: fire, water, wood, metal, and soil), the heaven, the earth, Yin (Um) and Yang. The Kup system in Tae Kwon Do descends from 9 to 1, whereas the Dan system ascends from 1 to 9. This system stems from the eastern belief that all life forms descend from the heaven, live on earth, and return to where they came from. In the decimal system, 9 is also the highest number. The belt rank are ordered as follows: White (means "Purity, Innocence, a Beginning") Yellow (means "The Earth, Foundation of Learning") Green (means "Seed Planted in the Earth") Blue (means "The Sprout Reaching Toward Heaven") Purple (means "Royalty") Brown (means "The Ripening of the Plant/Tree) Red (means "Danger") Black (means "Maturity, Striving for Perfection" or "Impervious to Fear and Darkness")
Tae Kwon Do Oath I shall observe the Tenets of Tae Kwon Do. I shall respect the instructor and senior belts. I shall never misuse Tae Kwon Do. I shall be a champion of freedom and justice. I shall build a more peaceful world.
Student's Creed To build myself physically and mentally. To build friendships and to be a strong group. To develop might for right; never fight selfishly. To show respect for Black Belt Instructors and to aid junior students.
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