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Grit & Glory Taekwondo

Questions, answered

Everything parents ask before their first class.

New to Taekwondo? You're not alone. Here are the questions we hear most from parents — and honest answers from coaches who've trained hundreds of kids.

Getting started

What age can my child start Taekwondo?

We accept students as young as 3 years old in our Little Tigers program. Each age group has a curriculum designed for its developmental stage, so your child is always learning at the right level.

How do I book a free trial?

Click any 'Book a free trial' button on this site, or visit any of our three branches during class hours. Your first class is always free — no commitment required.

Do I need to buy equipment right away?

No. For your free trial class, wear jogging pants and a white t-shirt, and bring water. We'll guide you on what gear to get once your child enrolls — there's no upfront equipment cost to try us out.

Training & safety

Is Taekwondo safe for young children?

Absolutely. Our instructors are trained to teach age-appropriate techniques with proper safety protocols. We emphasize discipline and control from day one, so kids learn to train safely and respectfully.

What will my child actually learn?

Beyond kicks and forms, students build discipline, focus, confidence, and respect. Parents most often tell us the biggest changes show up at home and in school — better listening, more self-control, and real self-assurance.

How long does it take to earn a black belt?

On average it takes 4–5 years of consistent training, but we never rush promotions. Every belt at Grit & Glory is earned through genuine effort — earned, not given.

Competition & progression

Can my child compete?

Yes. We offer a competitive track for students who want to join tournaments, from local to national level. Several of our students have represented the country — but competition is always optional.

What makes Grit & Glory different from other dojangs?

Founded by former national team members, we've produced national team players and college scholarship holders. Our no-shortcut belt system and family-first community are what set us apart.

Belts & grading

What is the belt order at Grit & Glory?

Our belt order runs White Belt → 8th Yellow → 7th Yellow → 6th Blue → 5th Blue → 4th Red → 3rd Red → 2nd Brown → 1st Brown → 1st Dan Black Belt → 2nd Dan Black Belt → 3rd Dan Black Belt — a real Kukkiwon-recognized black belt, earned through a real grading. Note this is Grit & Glory's own curriculum: some schools use different colors (orange, green, or a red-black belt), but ours doesn't include those.

What's the difference between a Poom and a Dan black belt?

Kukkiwon (World Taekwondo Headquarters) sets the official rule: students under 15 earn Poom ranks (1st Poom to 4th Poom, a belt split half red and half black), while students 15 and older earn Dan ranks (1st Dan up to 9th Dan (Grandmaster), a solid black belt). Poom and Dan candidates take the exact same technical skills tests (forms/poomsae, sparring, breaking), but higher Dan ranks require longer time-in-grade waiting periods and older minimum age thresholds. When a Poom holder turns 15, their rank converts automatically to the equivalent Dan — no retesting needed.

How are gradings conducted?

Students perform forms (poomsae), demonstrate techniques, and — for eligible ranks — spar lightly, in front of instructors and peers. Gradings usually happen every 2–3 months, but there are no fixed calendar dates — a coach puts a student up for grading when they're genuinely ready.

Can a child skip belts if they're a fast learner?

No — every belt requires its own grading, no exceptions. A fast learner will move through the ranks quicker, but they'll still earn every single belt on the way, the same as everyone else. That's the whole point of a no-shortcut system.

Classes & schedule

Are there weekend classes available?

Yes — all three branches run Saturday and Sunday classes. Hagonoy also adds a Friday evening session. Check each branch's page for exact times.

Do you separate classes by age or skill level?

Yes. Little Tigers (ages 3–6), Junior Warriors (ages 7–12), and Teens & Adults (13 and up) each have their own age-appropriate curriculum, taught separately.

What if we miss a class?

Consistency matters more than perfection. Missing an occasional class won't set your child back — just let your coach know, and they'll help your child catch up on anything they missed.

For parents

Can I watch my child's regular classes, not just the trial?

Yes. Parents, siblings, and guardians are always welcome to watch from the parent seating area — not just during the trial class.

What should my child wear once they've enrolled?

Your trial class only needs jogging pants, a white t-shirt, and water. Once your child enrolls, your branch coach will let you know what uniform (dobok) to get — there's nothing to buy beforehand.

How do I know if my child is ready to start?

If they're 3 years old and curious, they're ready. Our Little Tigers program is built specifically for that age — short, playful, age-appropriate sessions designed for a first-timer, not a scaled-down adult class.

Enrollment & logistics

What happens after the free trial if we want to continue?

Enrolling is simple and pressure-free — no hard sell. If your child loved their trial class, message us on Messenger or ask your coach on the spot, and we'll walk you through it.

Which branch should I choose?

Whichever is closest to you or fits your schedule best. Compare all three — Hagonoy and Arca South in Taguig, Don Bosco in Parañaque — on our locations page.

Do all branches offer the same programs?

Yes — Little Tigers, Junior Warriors, and Teens & Adults are taught at all three branches. Class times differ by location, so check your chosen branch's schedule.

Is there a minimum commitment to try a class?

None. Your first class is completely free with zero obligation to continue. Trial classes do need to be booked in advance so a coach is ready for your child.

Still have a question? We're happy to help.

Start today

Your first classis completely free.

See the difference one class can make. Pick your branch, book a time, and experience what real Taekwondo training looks like.

  • Free first class
  • No gear needed
  • No commitment