Business Details
50 Years
experience
World-Class Martial Arts Training in Denver, CO
Tiger Kim's Academy has been a leader in martial arts education since 1976, offering world-class instruction in Taekwondo, Tang Soo Do, and Hapkido. Founded by Grandmaster Tiger Kim, our academy combines centuries-old traditions with modern techniques to foster physical strength, mental discipline, and character development. Our certified black belt instructors provide personalized attention to students of all ages and skill levels, emphasizing respect, confidence, and self-control.We host annual tournaments, community enrichment programs, and specialized classes like women's self-defense, while maintaining rigorous safety standards through structured training and protective equipment. With a legacy of excellence recognized by the World Taekwondo Federation and Kukkiwon, we empower individuals to achieve black belt status and lifelong personal growth.
Services
Taekwondo
Tang Soo Do
Hapkido
Mixed Martial Arts
Women's Self-Defense
Birthday Parties
Tournaments
Details
- Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
- Certified black belt instructors with decades of experience
- Family-friendly environment fostering community and growth
- Annual tournaments for competitive skill development
- Specialized women's self-defense classes with charitable impact
- Proven curriculum producing black belts since 1976
Associations and certifications
- World Taekwondo Federation (WTF)
- Kukkiwon
What people say
Excellent instructors
Family-friendly environment
Great black belt teachers
Positive character development
Professional tournament organization
Services
Taekwondo
Taekwondo combines dynamic kicking techniques with character development. Students learn traditional forms (Poom Sae), sparring, and self-defense while building physical fitness and mental discipline. Our Olympic-style training emphasizes respect, sportsmanship, and technical precision through a structured belt system.
Tang Soo Do
Tang Soo Do focuses on full-contact techniques and weapon training. Practitioners develop power and speed through traditional forms while learning Bo staff, Nunchukas, and sword techniques. This discipline emphasizes harmony between mind, body, and spirit through rigorous physical and mental training.
Hapkido
Hapkido teaches practical self-defense against grabs and close-range attacks. Students master joint locks, throws, and pressure point techniques while wearing traditional uniforms. Our curriculum emphasizes conflict resolution and situational awareness alongside physical defense capabilities.
Mixed Martial Arts
MMA combines striking, grappling, and conditioning techniques from multiple disciplines. Our program features Muay Thai kickboxing and UFC-style training, preparing students for competitive fighting through intense physical conditioning and strategic combat scenarios.
Women's Self-Defense
Monthly self-defense workshops teach practical techniques for real-world scenarios. Classes include verbal de-escalation training and physical defense methods while supporting breast cancer research through $5 donations. Sessions run from 10:30 AM-12:00 PM on first Sundays.
People
Grandmaster Jung "Tiger" Kim
Founder
Born in 1936 Seoul, Grandmaster Kim began Tang Soo Do at age 6. He trained Bruce Lee in 1969 and earned recognition as "Tiger Cop" for head-breaking feats during his Korean National Police career.
Master Sung "Tiger" Kim
Head Instructor
A 7th Dan master in both Tang Soo Do and Taekwondo, he directs tournaments and serves as a U.S.T.U. certified referee. He coordinates martial arts enrichment programs at Denver Public Schools since 2003.
Dr. Steve
Senior Instructor
Certified black belt instructor with extensive experience in weapons training and hand-to-hand combat techniques, contributing to the academy's competitive success and community programs.
Questions
At what age can children start martial arts training?
Children as young as 3.5 years old can begin classes with our family-friendly programs.
Is prior martial arts experience required?
No experience needed - our introduction program accommodates complete beginners of all ages.
What safety measures are in place?
Certified instructors supervise step-by-step training with protective equipment on Olympic-sized mats.
Do you offer competitive opportunities?
Yes, we host annual tournaments and compete nationally while offering optional competition training.
Can previous martial arts experience transfer?
Yes, with proper documentation we can evaluate and place students at appropriate skill levels.
How long to achieve black belt status?
Typical progression takes 3-3.5 years with consistent training and demonstrated proficiency.
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