A commitment to physical fitness -

Tae Kwon Do is the ideal exercise if you want to lose weight, build lean muscle, develop flexibility, increase cardiovascular endurance, and engage your mind at the same time.

“I turn 60 this year and I feel good. Tae Kwon Do has helped with my flexibility and it makes a whole world of difference in everything I do. I’ve tried going to the gym, but I didn’t get out of it what I could. The discipline of Tae Kwon Do appeals to me. I like to look at each belt level as a reward for what I have accomplished. I’ve never enjoyed exercise but I can truly say I enjoy coming here.” -Donna Roberts

A goal to be their very best -

Dr. Kimberly Gayon
Dr. Gayon first joined the Park Institute with her family at the age of 5 in 1976. After receiving her black belt, she became a 4 year Junior National Champion, a 4 year Collegiate National Champion, and also become a member of the US National Tae Kwon Do team in 1994. After 28 years of training with Grandmaster Park, Dr. Gayon and her family now teach and practice Tae Kwon Do in Peoria, Illinois.

“My family and I began Tae Kwon Do with Grandmaster Park when I was 5 years old. 28 years later, I now practice with my own family. My motto is ‘Families that kick together, stick together’”.

How Tae Kwon Do can be fun-

For kids, Tae Kwon Do is a great activity to meet new friends and release energy. With special kids classes designed to mix the right combination of fun and discipline, children can improve their hand/eye coordination, listening skills, and motor skill in a playful, controlled environment.

“It’s fun and challenging; I enjoy meeting other people”

- Elizabeth Tep



Making family a priority-

Tae Kwon Do works well for families who want to exercise and spend quality time together. Classes are designed to allow parents and their children and/or couples to work together toward achieving a new belt rank. Working toward and achieving belt ranks together helps develop solidarity and allows parents to monitor their children’s progress.

“Family fun and quality family time is important to us.”

- Stensland Family (Andrea 7, Jacob 5)

Academic Success

School-age children and teenagers who would like to test for their black belt must achieve a “B” or better grades in school. The Park Institute emphasizes academic excellence in order to continue achieving new belt ranks.

Behavioral Discipline

Children who have a short attention span, attention deficit disorders, or who simply need a push in practicing discipline and respect can benefit from Tae Kwon Do. The Park Institute emphasizes traditional Tae Kwon Do values which call for respecting black belts, the training area, other students, and self-respect. Children must also pay attention in class (which promotes listening skills), follow rules, and stay focused.