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Prateek Sengar
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Master Kirby and the team are amazing! My child is always excited for the next Tae Kwon Do class. The best part is how Master Kirby and the other coaches give personalized attention to each child. They are patient and adjust the pace of the class to suit the kids’ needs. Highly recommend!

Leslie Matthews
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Total newbies to martial arts and this has been a great experience. Our 7 year old daughter enjoys class and has learned so much in a short time.

N.V. Jagan Mohan Reddy
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Great instructor! Master Kirby is very patient and dedicated on helping all the kids to grow in discipline, self-defense skills and to develop a sense of responsibility for one self and others. We were very excited when our kids have progressed fantastically, enjoys going to class, and is always anxious to learn. This is thanks to Master Kirby's dedication and commitment. We really appreciate all the hard work and effort he puts into this program. We are honored to have him as our kids mentor and look forward for him to continue teaching our son and guiding him to grow.

Kalyani Lingala
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My daughter learned a lot from this martial arts academy. Master Kirby teaches with patience and helped my daughter achieve great heights.

Cynthia Zuniga
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Great instructor! Master Kirby is very patient and dedicated on helping all the kids to grow in discipline, self-defense skills and to develop a sense of responsibility for one self and others. Our son started back when Master Kirby used to teach at Prosper Park and Rec. We were then very excited when Master Kirby opened Pine Tree Martial Arts School. Our son has progressed fantastically, enjoys going to class, and is always anxious to learn. This is thanks to Master Kirby's dedication and commitment. We really appreciate all the hard work and effort he puts into this program. We are honored to have him as our son's mentor and look forward for him to continue teaching our son and guiding him to grow.

Ashley Hernandez
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Our son is learning discipline and is excited to go to Tae Kwon Do! Master Kirby is so good with the kids. We highly recommend this program.

Mike Chen
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Master Kirby approach to teaching my daughter has been amazing as she went from a girl who didn't want to even try Tae Kwon Do to actually enjoying her classes. A great place to for any children to try martial arts as Master Kirby makes the students very comfortable.

Nawa Raj Awasthi
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Master Kirby is very gentle with kids, listens/understands them and teaches very nicely..good time allotted- opportunity to train every day which enhances performance.. highly recommend him..all the best master Kirby

Venkata
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My 7 year old has been learning from Master Kirby for a while and loves it. The classes are now moving to new location in Celina. All the best to Master Kirby & Team for the new chapter!!

Santosh Jangiti
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My daughter has been learning Taekwondo from Master Kirby for the past year. I have seen a marked improvement in her overall personality and she looks forward to her classes. Master Kirby is thorough and extremely patient with Kids. The new premises has been a great addition.

We will be closed for Christmas break December 23-27 and New Years Day January 1st.
Pine Tree Martial Arts - Martial Arts & Fitness in Celina
(972) 200-3505
Pine Tree Martial Arts

Exploring the Tenets of Song Moo Kwan: A Journey into Traditional Taekwondo

July 31, 2024

Song Moo Kwan is one of the oldest and most respected schools of Taekwondo, a martial art known for its powerful kicks, dynamic movements, and disciplined philosophy. Founded in Korea in 1944 by Supreme Grandmaster Byung Jick Ro, Song Moo Kwan has played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of modern Taekwondo. This blog post will delve into the core tenets of Song Moo Kwan, exploring its history, principles, and the values it instills in its practitioners.

The Origins of Song Moo Kwan

Supreme Grandmaster Byung Jick Ro founded Song Moo Kwan with the vision of creating a martial art that embodied both physical prowess and mental discipline. Drawing from his extensive training in Shotokan Karate under Master Gichin Funakoshi, Ro integrated traditional Korean martial arts techniques with Japanese influences. Song Moo Kwan, meaning “Pine Tree Martial Arts School,” symbolizes the strength and resilience of the pine tree, reflecting the school’s emphasis on enduring spirit and perseverance.  This is where our school derives its name from.

The Core Tenets of Song Moo Kwan

  1. Integrity (Yeom Chi)

Integrity is the foundation of Song Moo Kwan. Practitioners are taught to uphold honesty, honor, and moral principles in all aspects of life. This tenet emphasizes the importance of being truthful to oneself and others, fostering trust and respect within the community.

  1. Perseverance (In Nae)

Perseverance is crucial in mastering any martial art. Song Moo Kwan students are encouraged to persist through challenges and setbacks, understanding that growth comes through continuous effort and determination. This tenet teaches that true strength lies in the ability to endure hardships and remain committed to one’s goals.

  1. Self-Control (Geuk Gi)

Self-control is essential for maintaining discipline and focus. Song Moo Kwan practitioners learn to control their emotions, reactions, and impulses, ensuring that their actions are guided by reason and respect. This tenet is vital for achieving mastery in martial arts and for navigating everyday life with composure.

  1. Indomitable Spirit (Baekjul Boolgool)

The indomitable spirit reflects the unwavering determination and courage to overcome any obstacle. Song Moo Kwan instills a mindset of resilience and tenacity, encouraging practitioners to face challenges head-on with confidence and resolve. This tenet inspires a never-give-up attitude, essential for personal and martial arts growth.

  1. Courtesy (Ye Ui)

Courtesy encompasses respect, humility, and kindness. Song Moo Kwan students are taught to show respect to their instructors, peers, and themselves. This tenet fosters a supportive and positive training environment, where mutual respect and consideration are paramount.

Training in Song Moo Kwan

Training in Song Moo Kwan is a holistic experience that encompasses physical conditioning, technical skill development, and mental discipline. Practitioners engage in rigorous training routines that include:

  • Forms (Poomsae): Pre-arranged sequences of movements that develop technique, balance, and coordination.
  • Sparring (Gyeorugi): Controlled combat practice that hones reflexes, strategy, and application of techniques.
  • Breaking (Gyeokpa): Demonstrating power and precision by breaking boards or other materials.
  • Self-Defense (Hosinsul): Practical techniques for defending against various attacks.

The Legacy of Song Moo Kwan

Song Moo Kwan’s influence extends beyond the dojang (training hall). Its principles shape the character and lives of its practitioners, promoting a balanced and disciplined approach to life. The school’s commitment to preserving traditional martial arts values while embracing modern developments has solidified its place as a cornerstone of Taekwondo history.

Conclusion

Song Moo Kwan, and Pine Tree Martial Arts specifically, is more than just a martial arts school; we teach a philosophy that encourages personal growth, discipline, and respect. By adhering to its core tenets of integrity, perseverance, self-control, indomitable spirit, and courtesy, practitioners of Song Moo Kwan embark on a journey of self-improvement that transcends the physical realm. Whether you are a seasoned martial artist or a beginner, the teachings of Song Moo Kwan offer valuable lessons for navigating life’s challenges with strength and grace.

About Brian Kirby

Master Brian Kirby's journey in martial arts began at the young age of 5, training directly under the guidance of his father. As a lifelong student of Song Moo Kwan, Master Kirby has dedicated over 40 years to refining his craft. He is a proud holder of a 5th Dan Black Belt, certified by the United States Song Moo Kwan Association.

With more than 20 years of teaching experience, Master Kirby established Pine Tree Martial Arts to share his extensive knowledge and passion for martial arts with others, including his own children. Pine Tree Martial Arts is a family-friendly school that welcomes participants of all ages—youth, teens, and adults alike.

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