TVMA ACADEMY · LAKE IN THE HILLS
Taekwondo questions.
Clear answers.
A little clarity before you step onto the mat.
Find answers about classes, your first visit, and the journey ahead.
Your first visit
How do I schedule a trial class?
Free trial classes are currently offered on Thursdays. View Available Trial Appointments. Choose the program and an available time. If you need help or would prefer another day, email info@TVMA.Academy or text 630-363-4202, and we’ll check for additional openings.
What should I wear to my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes. Please remove shoes, socks, and jewelry before stepping on the mat. We’ll explain uniforms (dobok) and gear options if you decide to enroll.
What age can my child start Taekwondo?
Children can begin at age 3 in Tiny Lions, our program for ages 3–5. Young Children serves ages 6–9, Children’s Classes serves ages 10–12, and Teen and Adult classes welcome ages 13 and up. A trial class helps us find the right starting point for your child.
You can read more here:
Do you offer adult Taekwondo classes?
Yes. Our adult program focuses on fitness, flexibility, practical self-defense, mental focus, and personal growth. Beginners are welcome at any age and no prior experience is required.
Learn more here:
Why It’s Never Too Late: The Life-Changing Benefits of Adult Martial Arts
Training & support
How is Taekwondo different from other kids’ sports?
Taekwondo focuses on life skills like focus, respect, discipline, and confidence in every class. Each student progresses at their own pace, with no benchwarmers and no pressure to compete unless they choose to.
What if my child is shy or struggles with focus?
Our instructors are experienced in working with children of all personalities and learning styles. Many of our most confident students today began their journey shy, hesitant, or unsure.
Is Taekwondo good for stress relief and mental clarity?
Many adults value Taekwondo as a focused break from daily responsibilities. Regular training can support fitness, concentration, and confidence while providing a community to train with. Each student’s experience is different.
Will my child learn how to protect themselves?
Yes. We teach age-appropriate self-defense skills alongside confidence building, awareness, and boundary-setting. These lessons grow naturally with each stage of training.
Can women and girls benefit from Taekwondo?
Definitely. Women and girls gain confidence, strength, self-reliance, and mental resilience through structured martial arts training in a supportive environment.
Is Taekwondo safe for young children?
We prioritize age-appropriate instruction, clear expectations, and supervised practice. Tiny Lions introduces movement, coordination, listening, and personal space through activities designed for younger students. Please tell us about any needs or concerns before your child’s first class.
Do you separate beginners from advanced students?
Yes. Students are grouped by age and experience level to ensure proper pacing, challenge, and individual support.
Uniforms & gear
Where do I get uniforms or sparring gear?
All approved uniforms and gear are available through the TVMA Pro Shop. We ensure proper fit and safety certification for all students.
What gear do I need for sparring?
When students are ready for sparring, required gear may include approved headgear, chest protector, gloves, shin and forearm guards, mouthguard, and groin protection (for males). All available through the TVMA Pro Shop.
Membership
How much does it cost to join TVMA Academy?
We offer flexible pricing options based on age and program, as well as family discounts. Contact us for current tuition rates and to schedule your free trial.
Do you offer family discounts or special pricing?
Yes. We offer family discounts and a 10% discount for teachers, military, and law enforcement.
Do I need to sign a long-term contract?
No. We offer monthly memberships with no long-term commitment required.
Belts & progress
How does belt testing work?
Students are invited to test when they demonstrate readiness across multiple areas, including technique, poomsae, sparring, discipline, etiquette, and understanding of Taekwondo principles.
How often do belt tests occur?
Testing opportunities are typically offered every two months, but only for students who consistently demonstrate the required skills and commitment.
What if a student doesn’t pass their test?
Students who do not pass receive a Commitment to Growth certificate along with personalized feedback and an improvement plan. At TVMA Academy, growth is valued over perfection.
Is your curriculum recognized by Kukkiwon?
Yes. We follow the official World Taekwondo curriculum. Eligible Black Belt ranks may qualify for Kukkiwon certification and international recognition.
You can learn more on our Affiliations page.
Our academy
What is TVMA Academy?
TVMA Academy is a Taekwondo school in Lake in the Hills, Illinois, led by Master Eric Ford, a Kukkiwon-certified International Taekwondo Master. Kids, teens, and adults learn through age-appropriate classes, with space to ask questions, practice skills, and get to know their classmates. We value effort, respect, and steady progress.
Where are you located?
Find us at 421 N Randall Rd, Unit E, Lake in the Hills, IL 60156. We welcome students from Lake in the Hills, Algonquin, Crystal Lake, Huntley, Cary, Dundee, and nearby communities.
Who teaches the classes?
Classes are led by Master Eric Ford, a Kukkiwon Certified Black Belt Master and Class 3 International Taekwondo Master. TVMA Academy is a registered USA Taekwondo club, and Master Eric maintains current SafeSport training and background screening through the National Center for Safety Initiatives.
No matching questions. Try a different word or contact the academy.
STILL HAVE A QUESTION?
The path begins
with a conversation.
We’re happy to talk about the right program, a first visit, or your next step in training.
For terminology and study support between classes, meet TVMA Sidekick.