Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a minimum age requirement to start training at ATI?
American Tigers Inc. gladly accepts children from the age of 7 and older. Children ages 5 or 6 years old are also welcome, but are required to partake in a trial class before officially enrolling.
Can we sign up on the spot? / Do you offer trial classes?
While we recommend attending a trial class first to ensure it's the right fit for you and your child, you can certainly discuss signing up on the spot with one of our instructors after the trial session. They can provide you with all the necessary information and help you through the registration process if you decide to join.
Trial classes are important to gauge the child's ability to listen and follow along with the rest of the class, as well as to see if they enjoy the experience. It allows both the student and the parent to observe the class environment, the teaching style, and the curriculum. We believe this approach helps to make an informed decision about joining our Taekwondo family.
Do I have to sign a yearly contract if I choose to enroll at ATI?
Because we operate on a month-to-month basis, there are no long-term or locked in contracts at ATI! We want our students to feel free to choose what's best for them without feeling locked in. You can start or stop attending classes at any time, giving you the flexibility to manage your schedule and commitments as you see fit.
Does ATI offer any special promotions?
Yes, American Tigers Inc. offers a free uniform upon enrollment. This is our way of welcoming new students and ensuring they have the necessary gear to start their training.
Do I need any prior experience in martial arts?
No prior experience is necessary! Our classes are designed to accommodate students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. Our instructors will guide you through the basics and help you progress at your own pace.
I'm curious about the class schedule. How long are classes at ATI?
A typical class at ATI usually lasts around 45 minutes and consists of a warmup, technique training, mastering their traditional forms (poomsae), and stretching at the end. The subjects taught in each class changes every week meaning there is always something new to learn! See our class schedule here.
Location
Phone Number:
(714) 636-4470ATI is an exceptional studio that defies easy description. Master Kwon is an incredible teacher with a fierce passion for Taekwondo, both in practice and instruction. He is extremely kind and highly respected. Not only does he teach children about kicking and punching, but he also instills in them the essence of being a true martial artist.
At ATI, students are also introduced to Korean culture, the birthplace of Taekwondo, as Master Kwon incorporates it into the learning experience. The instructors here are truly qualified and excellent in both technical and teaching skills. They are certified by Kukkiwon, the headquarters of Taekwondo in Korea, and have achieved numerous accolades in local, regional, national, and international competitions, including prestigious ones like the US Open. They respect the students and teach them with complete dedication. A lot of students are also actively participating in many Taekwondo competitions throughout the year which makes the school such a vibrant and positive environment.
Over the years, my little kid has trained here, and I can attest that ATI is a well-known and reliable Taekwondo school in our local community. The studio's inclusion of children with special needs, adults of all ages, and students from diverse backgrounds, including those transferring from other Taekwondo schools, states, and countries, makes it an exceptional place for training. I do not think there are any other Taekwondo schools in the area offer classes for all ages. The closest one is like 15miles away from Garden Grove.
One of the most realiable and credible things about this studio as I know is many trainers at ATI have been with the school for many years, starting from their elementary school days and continuing through to graduating from college, whether as engineers or while earning doctoral degrees. A lot of them have established careers and been successful as well.
I rarely write reviews on Yelp, but I feel compelled to respond to some of the negative comments. In martial arts, children must learn discipline and respect for others, from family members to strangers. This is a fundamental pillar of ATI's teaching. During belt promotion tests, which occur every 2-3 months, all students are encouraged, though not required, to spend a few extra minutes observing their peers as a way of learning and showing respect. I believe this is an excellent method of educating children on mutual respect.
I don't understand the complaints about tuition. My child has trained here for years, and ATI's tuition is among the most reasonable in the area for such high-quality training. I find the negative reviews strange and unfounded. Moreover, ATI is the only Taekwondo school in the area that offers free trials for students.
Master Kwon has been teaching and running this school with passion for over twenty years, so I believe the negative reviews are unjustified. Thank you again, Master Kwon, and all the incredible instructors and trainers at ATI.
Khang D.
July 19, 2024
Hello Individuals, Parents and Grandparents!
If you are looking for a clean, disciplined and safe Dojang, I highly recommend American Tigers, Inc.
Master Dae Kwun has a big heart for learning and lifting kids spirit with his teaching, patient and kind. I was a single Mom looking for solid male role models for my 5 year old son. My son learned to be courages, persistent and patient. Despite a handful of lazy days, we pushed through the program. Master Kwun had a few pep talks with my son and encouraged him to keep pressing on. My son received his Jr Black Belt at age 9.
American Tigers, Inc. Made a big impact in my son's life. He is a law abiding citizen, respects himself and others. Appreciates God's Gift of Life and is a hard working young man, a great husband and values his leadership skills in his field of work. Reader, don't overlook this Dojang! Great group of instructors under Master Kwun's leadership. You will be greatful! : )
Happy P.
March 16, 2024
My son has recently started taking TKD classes with ATI, and he loves it. The instructors are strict but fair and understanding. Classes promote discipline, confidence, and respect. All the students that attend seem to enjoy being there. Classes are convenient and run about 40 minutes. Tuition is fairly priced, and newcomers get a week long trial before committing. I highly recommend ATI.
Nap D.
June 20, 2023
Nice clean and respectful dojo. Just signed up my daughter there after 6 weeks at another dojo that couldn't compare to the training at American Tiger.
Karen N.
October 30, 2022
All in all, the best martial arts for our kids. Master Kwon, coach David, instructors Hai and Aldrick are all awesome. They love their work and care about the kids. If you are looking for a place for your kids, I urge you to come and give it a try. Take a look at the place, talk to the master and the coaches, talk to other parents. I have taken my kids to three different places and decided American Tigers Inc. (ATI) is the best.
Mike K.
February 21, 2016
Awesome, awesome studio! My daughter joined ATI when she started training for her 2nd degree black belt. Wish we would have started her here for her 1st degree. The Master and Instructors are all great with the students. You can tell they care and have a passion for Taekwondo. My daughter absolutely loves coming to her practices because she knows she's going to learn something new and improve her skills. Best decision made to leave her old studio and join American Tigers!
Yvette C.
October 22, 2015
Just let me say that this is the best place ever! I've been coming here for almost three years now(three years in February) and I only have one more test to become a black belt. I have to say that it provides a workout. You learn to improve your flexibility and cardiovascular fitness as well! Each week there's a different skill that you have to work on, the first week is belt kicking where you practice your belt kicking technique. The second week is board breaking where you practice hitting a foam board to improve your accuracy. The third week is sparring, where you practice your footwork. And lastly, form week. This place I assure you can make you sweat and can also improve your stamina from their workouts. 5/5!
Alan V.
January 15, 2015
A Short&Sweet Review..... Shorter than most reviews and sweeter than a quick tip.
SHORT (not so great....)
1. A roundhouse kick to my jaw, bruised abs, and a twisted ankle were just a few mishaps during training. This studio is no joke.
2. It cost $100 a month and cheaper if you pay in advance... $90/month for three month in advance and $82/month for for 6 month in advance.
3. You'll be working out and learning alongside black belts... This could be good or bad thing... you can be the judge.
SWEET! (the good....)
1. Master Kwon...Captain of a Korean team under the WTF (World Taekwondo Federation)... Some nights I feel like WTF and other nights... It's WTF.
2. The ability to break wooden boards with your bare foot and fist... I'm not violent but seriously....don't F$&@ with me.
3. Prepare to work your ass off... Beautiful pain... It's worth it...IMO.
Tuan C.
January 6, 2012
I got to blue belt in a year they helped me very fast and it was much better than I expected
Joseph A.
March 7, 2020
I came here to learn Tae Won Do and to get active for the summer because summer get boring you know and I want to have something to do! I love all of the instructors because they are all helpful and friendly! This place is truly amazing because it is really professional and serious, which I love because I am not the type to mess around. I want to thank Master Kwon and instructor D.K. for teaching me the first two days have been amazing! Xx
Hillary T.
July 3, 2013
Best place ever!! My daughter has been going there for almost 4 years now and the people and place here have built up her self confidence tremendously!! She is so close to her Black Belt! I joined a year and half ago and feel so great since! I am able to have a work out with my daughter!! Price is amazing and Master Kwon and Instructors have become more family/friends to us!!!! I would recommend to everyone and love to share this place with my family and friends!!
Deanna H.
May 16, 2012
Best Taekwondo place I have ever been to!
They are really into respect. They teach how to respect our parents more. When I was small, I took all sorts of taekwondo places but they didn't really go into details. American Tigers is the best place for anybody who would like sports and working out. On my first day, they taught me all their drills. Trust me, it was hard but worth it in the end. Here they make sure you got everything right. All your footings in the right places. When I first joined I hated it. I was a lazy teenager! I would sass the instructors but they could be really serious. They could joke around sometimes too. The American Tigers Inc are really into respect. We're not allowed to " yes " it's " yes sir" . I learned many techniques. All of these could help self defense. Again, great place ever!!!
Alicia N.
July 10, 2015
enthusiastic instructors, well-behaved kids, sweaty exercises,lots of parking, flexible schedule, highly recommended for parents to look for an after school program
Nguyen T.
April 17, 2018
Have 2 children coming here since the age of 4. One is now a 7 y/o black belt, the other a 5 y/o green belt. Both kids love the studio and love their instructors. Thank you to Master Kwon and instructor D.K.
Jared R.
September 24, 2012
I have been to three different tae kwon do institutes and i have never met a more passionate staff. The grand master and instructors really create an environment where exercise is fun, humbling, and satisfying both for the parents watching and for the kids participating. This is all due to the hard work and passion the staff has for this sport and love for their students. Just one visit to this place and you will feel for yourself. Don't waste your time and commit to American Tigers they are one of the best!
Kevin C.
January 5, 2013
Stayed here for years until I was black belt. Very great place to learn martial arts.
Nathan N.
July 20, 2017
My sons are learning so many useful skills that would last them a lifetime. Master Kwon is the real deal. Instructor David is very engaging and good with the students. Then again, all the other instructors are great too! Thank you all for doing an awesome job! Christopher and Daniel really love coming to American Tigers!
Jennipher C.
June 24, 2015
wonderful and friendly . the instructors make you feel at home while learning how to defend yourself . worth the experience . I attended when I was younger and had to stop but enjoyed it so much I decided to come back . I attend now and its better than ever . nothing but positives to say .
Courtney S.
September 29, 2013
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