Established in 2005, Jhoon Rhee TKD offers programs for adults and children ages 4 and older, including Adaptive Martial Arts and Cardio Kickboxing. Co-owners Barry Shackelford and Francis Pineda continue Grandmaster Rhee’s mission, teaching life skills through martial arts. Their proven system — Grandmaster Rhee’s teachings — has been developed and refined over 60 years.

Q: What makes Jhoon Rhee Tae Kwon Do different from other TKD studios?

A: We are privileged to continue the prestigious legacy of Grandmaster Jhoon Rhee. Known as the Father of American Tae Kwon Do, he introduced the sport to the United States in the 1950s. We, therefore, hold our students to a high standard. 

Co-owners Barry Shackelford and Francis Pineda combine for 83 years of Tae Kwon Do experience, and all full-time instructors have been with the studio for 14+ years. Our specialized curriculum focuses on character development and building life skills through martial arts. And our holistic approach equally emphasizes quality martial arts, high academic achievement and outstanding behavior at home. 

Q: What motivates and inspires you?

A: It’s always fulfilling when our college students return and thank us for helping to instill them with the tools needed to succeed on their own. We’ve also had many students tell us that Jhoon Rhee Tae Kwon Do literally saved their lives, whether through a change in lifestyle, physical fitness, or mental health. That keeps us motivated every day, even after 17 years. 

Q: What can students expect when joining your studio?

A: A welcoming environment that fosters a sense of community. Our programs, taught by instructors who are passionate about sharing their love for martial arts, accommodate students ages 4 and older of all ability levels. We also have developed an “Adaptive Program” specifically designed for those with special needs. The Jhoon Rhee TKD community values giving back—our students recently helped us pack more than 40,000 meals for Ukrainian refugees.