Who can take classes?
Class is open to any member of Gettysburg College, regardless. Never tried martial arts before? Not a problem. Completely uncoordinated? We'll fix it. You're a weakling? Come see a different side. Got no money? It's free. Already got a black belt? Share the knowledge. Everyone can benefit from this class. All it takes is a little practice and dedication.

How much does it cost?
Class is free, and the costs of belt promotions are usually covered by the club's budget.

What is a typical class like?
Class begins with stretching and warm-ups to increase flexibility and prevent injuries. Then we practice basics or fundamental movements as a group. After basics we do forms, planned combinations of moves which are to be learned at each belt level. These are followed by two types of sparring. Three step sparring drills are controlled give and take exercises with a partner. They emphasize practical use and understanding of self-defense techniques. Free style sparring is for yellow belts and above, but no contact is permitted. The class ends with cool downs to reduce soreness.

When can I start?
Now is the best time to start! If you come at the beginning of a semester, you'll start at the same time as other beginners, but we accept new students at any point during the year.

When does class meet?
Class meets every Wednesday and Friday during the school year from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm in Plank Gym (on the old stage next to the basketball courts). If you can't make it to that class, you can go to another of Ted's classes at the YWCA from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm on Wednesdays and Fridays. That class is open to the general public.

What should I wear to class?
Just show up in something loose and breathable to work out in. We go barefoot, so you don't have to worry about shoes. If you attend our events, you will accumulate an impressive collection of Tae Kwon Do t-shirts. These are also pretty standard apparel worn with uniform pants. If you want to buy a uniform, you can order one from Ted.

What did he just say?
Fortunately, class is 99% English. We only give two commands in Korean. "Joon Bee" means to start in ready stance. "Geuman Shea" means return back to ready stance. The names of our forms are also in Korean. The two white belt forms are called Kuk Mu 1 and Kuk Mu 2.

How do I tie my belt?
By viewing this page, you have silently surrendered to the fact that you cannot dress yourself. Admission of a problem is the first step to recovery. We're here for you.

How do I put on my uniform correctly?
When you finally get it all on, you should still be able to see your head, hands, and feet. If not, see the chart below. There's a correct place for patches too.

What is the order of belts?
White, yellow, green, purple, brown, and black. It is entirely possible for a beginner to achieve the rank of 1st degree black belt in his or her four years at Gettysburg College. Many have done it, so can you.

What are the minimum belt test requirements?

WHITE to YELLOW (0-7 kup)
Time: 2 Months / 30 hours
Forms: Kuk Mu 1, Kuk Mu 2
Three Steps: 5 Basic
Test Fee: $40

YELLOW to GREEN (7-5 kup)
Time: 4 Months / 60 hours
Forms: Pyong An 1, Pyong An 2, Kuk Mu 3
Three Steps: 3 Additional
Test Fee: $35

GREEN to PURPLE (5-3 kup)
Time: 4 Months / 60 hours
Forms: Pyong An 2, Pyong An 3, Ch'ien 1
Three Steps: 2 Additional
Test Fee $35

PURPLE to BROWN (2-1 kup)
Time: 4 Months / 60 hours
Forms: Pyong An 4, Pyong An 5, Kuk Mu 4
Three Steps: 2 Additional
Test Fee: $50

BROWN to BLACK 1st DAN
Time: 12 Months / 180 hours
Forms: Culgi 1, Palsek, Kuk Mu 5
Free Style Sparring (no contact)
Three Steps: 10 Total
3 Inch Break
Test Fee: $250