Who am I?

Hey, let me introduce myself: I am Master Marlon Gavironda. I have been practicing martial arts since the age of three, and I have been practicing Taekwondo for 15 years.

Over those years, I have gained experience in a variety of styles, systems, and methods of applying techniques. Throughout my entire life in the martial arts, I have become convinced that the best way we can contribute to our society is through the development of human character

—by instilling values such as respect, discipline, honor, focus, and, of course, integrity.

What is Traditional Taekwondo and what makes it special?

Our style is special because it is not limited to a single style; it is a reflection of my personal evolution. In every practice, tradition and open-mindedness converge, forming a complete martial art that transcends the physical realm.

What makes it unique is its human quality. For me, martial arts are a vehicle for respect, humility, and service. Every training partner serves as a mirror for personal growth, and every lesson is an opportunity to strengthen one's character. I do not seek to dominate, but to understand; I do not compete out of pride, but for the sake of self-improvement.

Mentally, I have forged an unwavering discipline. Patience, resilience, and focus are just as important as technique. I have learned that true mastery begins in the mind—in maintaining calm amidst chaos, and in the silent perseverance of one who never gives up.

I deeply value tradition. To me, tradition represents neither rigidity nor stagnation, but rather the anchor that gives meaning to the journey. It is the bow exchanged at the beginning and end of a session, the significance behind every form (*poomsae* or hyung), and the respect shown for the Dobok and for those who practiced before us. Tradition connects me to the very essence of martial arts: not merely learning how to fight, but learning how to live with integrity, loyalty, and purpose. I honor the roots while simultaneously forging my own path.

Technically, my training serves as a bridge between different systems. Building upon the solid foundation of Taekwondo, I have integrated the fluidity and hand techniques of Tang Soo Do, the joint manipulation and control of Hapkido, the efficient throwing techniques of Judo, and the submission strategies of Jiu-Jitsu. This fusion is not a mere patchwork, but a coherent synthesis: I strike with precision, control with fluidity, take down with intelligence, and finish with efficacy. And I do all of this without ever losing sight of the respect due to the essence of each individual system.

For ultimately, my art is not defined by a name, but by the values ​​that sustain it, the tradition that nourishes it, and the integrity with which I live it. That is what makes my Taekwondo special.

The organization with which we are affiliated to promote students.

(KMAIA) is an international organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion, and standardization of traditional Korean military and martial arts. Founded on a tradition dating back to 1945, the association serves as a global bridge between the traditional standards maintained in the Republic of Korea and practitioners worldwide.

Core Mission and Vision

The KMAIA operates with a focus on both technical excellence and the business success of its members.

Its primary objectives include:

• Unification: Bringing together practitioners of various Korean styles — such as Hapkido, Taekwondo, and KyukKumSool (Korean Sword), in a fraternal environment of mutual respect.

• Educational Leadership: Providing standardized curricula and certification for students (Geup), Black Belts (Dan), Instructors, Masters, and Grand Masters.

• Global Growth: Assisting martial arts school owners in achieving professional success through proven marketing and management systems without compromising the integrity of the art.

What is the Korean Martial Arts Instructors Association?

Grand Master who certify our belt promotions

In the world of martial arts, there are practitioners, and then there are trailblazers. Grand Master Richard Hackworth belongs firmly in the latter category. With over four decades of unwavering dedication, Hackworth has transcended the role of a traditional instructor to become a global visionary for the martial arts lifestyle.

His impact on the community isn't just measured by the ranks he holds, but by the thousands of lives he has elevated through his "principles-based" approach to teaching.

A Legacy of Leadership and Innovation

As a multi-arts Grand Master, Richard Hackworth has spent his life researching the profound intersection of physical mastery and mental fortitude. He is perhaps best known as the author of the transformative book

Be a Life Champion: The Martial Arts Way. This work serves as a manifesto for those looking to apply the discipline of the dojang to every facet of their professional and personal lives.

His leadership is most visible through his role as the host of the annual USA Hapkido Union Instructors Certification Course and Dan Rank Exam in Florida.

This prestigious event is a cornerstone for the Hapkido community, setting the gold standard for technical excellence and instructional integrity.

Grand Master

Richard Hackworth

Accomplishments and Official Positions

• US Director for the World Martial Arts Congress in Beijing, China

• US Representative for the Korean Martial Arts

Instructors Association

• USA Director for the Guardian Self Defense Program, Dublin, Ireland

• President of the USA Hapkido Union

• Vice President of the US National Taekwondo

Association

• President and Founder of HaeMuKwan Hapkido

Organizations That Recognize Us

Common Questions

You don't need any prior experience—just the desire to get started. Martial arts isn't a destination you reach with a head start, but rather a journey where everyone begins from their own unique starting point. The only truly essential thing isn't what you already know, but what you are willing to learn. We take that first step together.

At what age should one start?

Do I need prior experience in martial arts?

Did I become violent through the practice of martial arts?

Taekwondo knows no age for starting; it requires only the spirit to continue. From age 4 to 80, what matters is not when you begin, but the commitment with which you live it. In my art, the true white belt is not the one who has never fallen, but the one who one day decides to start—without looking back.

Quite the opposite. Martial arts do not teach you to seek out a fight; they teach you to avoid it. The true warrior is not the one who strikes first, but the one who possesses the restraint not to do so when it is unnecessary. On my journey, I have learned that the more technical skill you develop, the more humility and self-control emerge. Martial arts do not create violence; they channel energy, forge character, and teach you that the greatest strength lies in knowing when not to use it.

What is the benefits to practice taekwondo ?

Benefits of Practicing Martial Arts:

· Self-control: You learn to master your emotions, rather than being mastered by them.

· Discipline: You cultivate consistency, order, and commitment to yourself.

· Confidence: You believe in your own abilities without needing to prove anything to others.

· Respect: For your instructor, your peers, and—above all—for yourself.

· Resilience: You fall, you rise, and you keep going—time and time again.

· Self-defense: You acquire practical tools to protect yourself without seeking out conflict.

· Physical Fitness: Strength, flexibility, reflexes, and comprehensive endurance.

· Humility: You understand that there is always something new to learn.

· Inner Peace: You channel your energy, release stress, and find your balance.

"These aren't just physical or mental benefits; it is a path that transforms your character and your way of life."

Our Home

We are located at the Exchange Community Center. Classes held here must be paid for directly through the Community Center and cost $40 per month. However, if you are a student enrolled with us through the Community Center and wish to take additional classes outside of these facilities, you would only need to pay the difference, depending on the membership option you choose.

Days

Mondays and Thursdays

Hours

6:30pm - 7:30pm

For private classes or group classes must be scheduled; we adapt to your location and convenience.

Get in Touch

Reach out for classes, questions, or private sessions.