Frequently Asked Martial Arts Questions

  • Moo Duk Kwan is one of the original five Kwans in Taekwondo’s lineage and translates to “School of Martial Virtue.” It was founded in 1945 by Grandmaster Hwang Kee, who developed his system based on years of study in Chinese, Japanese and Korean martial arts.

    He first taught Tang Soo Do, which later evolved into Soo Bahk Do and contributed to the development of modern Taekwondo. By 1965, Moo Duk Kwan had become a defining influence in the art as it is practiced today.

    Our Grandmaster, Kyongwon Ahn, 9th Dan, was a student of Hwang Kee and has played a key role in preserving and sharing these traditions while helping spread Taekwondo’s values and benefits worldwide.

  • Maintaining physical health is essential to a long, strong life—but mental health is just as important. Martial arts develop both.

    Training builds discipline, perseverance, focus, patience, and resilience, while strengthening the body at the same time. It also teaches practical self-defense skills to protect yourself and your loved ones if needed.

    Together, these benefits make martial arts a powerful tool for lifelong growth and personal development.

  • Absolutely. U.S. Moo Do Academy is a family-owned business and actively encourages families to train and learn together. We have many families that have trained and grown through the ranks together, some even becoming instructors at the school today. If our encouragement isn’t enough, we also offer discounts to encourage families to join as one.

  • Everyone begins at the same starting point in our organization. We believe learning never stops—students and instructors alike are always growing.

    We welcome beginners and anyone curious to visit a class, meet the team, and experience the benefits of Taekwondo and martial arts. There is no judgment here, only a shared commitment to learning and improvement.

  • At U.S. Moo Do Academy, we welcome students from all backgrounds—whether you’re returning after years away, cross-training from another martial art, or starting fresh. All new students follow the same placement and testing process to ensure proper development within our system.

    While we maintain a structured curriculum and teaching method, we value the experience each student brings. Our goal is to grow together, share knowledge, and train as a family.

U.S. Moo Do Academy Assistant Instructor Peter Lefkovitz with 9th Dan Grandmaster Kyongwon Ahn

Have more questions? Click the button to contact the U.S. Moo Do team and learn more.