Business Details
Your Trusted Taekwondo Academy in Columbus, OH
McClellan's Taekwondo Academy is a family-owned and operated martial arts school founded by Miss McClellan, a former elementary school teacher. Our mission is to instill confidence, discipline, and physical fitness in students of all ages through structured Taekwondo training. With a team of certified instructors, including multiple black belts and nationally recognized judges, we prioritize health, safety, and character development. Our programs cater to children as young as four, teens, and adults, offering tailored classes that emphasize respect, self-control, and personal growth.As part of Taekwondo America, a respected national organization, we provide access to regional and national events, fostering a supportive community for families. Our instructors, including 5th Degree Black Belt Christie McKelvey, bring decades of combined experience to ensure students receive expert guidance. We focus on creating a fun, inclusive environment where students build self-defense skills, meet new people, and achieve their goals through consistent training.
Services
Little Ninjas
Juniors
Teens
Adults
Testing
Introductory Membership
Highlights and features
- Family-owned school with 5th Degree Black Belt leadership
- Certified instructors with 2nd-7th Degree Black Belts
- Focus on health, safety, and character development
- Structured programs for ages 4 to adult
- Part of nationally recognized Taekwondo America network
Associations and certifications
- Taekwondo America
What people say
Love this martial arts school
Health and safety priorities
Highly recommend
Building character
Safe environment
Services
Little Ninjas
Our Little Ninjas program introduces children aged 4-5 to Taekwondo fundamentals. Classes focus on attention development, direction following, and controlled movement. Through structured activities, students build balance, focus, and respect while establishing a foundation for future martial arts growth.
Juniors
Juniors program (ages 6-11) develops physical coordination and mental strength through basic patterns, kicks, and blocks. Classes emphasize goal-setting, confidence building, and discipline while maintaining a fun, engaging environment that encourages regular attendance and progress.
Teens
Teen classes (ages 12-15) combine physical fitness with character development. Students learn self-control, stress management, and social skills through structured workouts that include partner drills, forms practice, and group activities in a supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere.
Adults
Adult martial arts classes provide comprehensive fitness benefits including weight loss, improved flexibility, and increased energy. Participants learn practical self-defense techniques while developing mental focus through dynamic workouts suitable for all fitness levels and experience backgrounds.
Testing
Testing evaluates student progress every two months through panel assessments by black belt instructors. Students earn stripes for skill mastery before advancing to new belt ranks, with official certificates issued by Taekwondo America. Testing fees vary by belt level ($50-$95).
People
Christie McKelvey
Owner & Chief Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt with extensive teaching experience, Christie founded MTA after a career in elementary education. She oversees all instructional programs and maintains national certification standards.
Jim McClellan
Level 4 Certified Instructor
7th Degree Black Belt Jim McClellan contributes decades of martial arts expertise to MTA. He assists with advanced student training and testing preparation while supporting daily operations.
Marianne McClellan
Level 4 Certified Instructor
3rd Degree Black Belt Marianne McClellan supports junior programs and community outreach. She brings specialized knowledge of children's development to MTA's curriculum implementation.
Questions
What age can children start Taekwondo training?
Children can begin at age 4 in our Little Ninjas program. Juniors classes start at age 6, with teen/adult classes available from age 12.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes like sweatpants/shorts and a t-shirt. Classes are conducted barefoot, so ensure clean feet before entering the training area.
How often should students attend classes?
We recommend attending 2-3 times weekly for optimal progress. Consistent attendance helps students maintain technique development and class engagement.
What are testing requirements and fees?
Testing occurs every two months with fees ranging from $50-$95 based on belt level. Stripes are earned through skill mastery before formal belt advancement assessments.
How long does it take to earn a black belt?
While mathematically possible in 3 years, most students take longer to achieve black belt status. The journey emphasizes mastering fundamentals through consistent training and personal development.
