Taekwondo for kids and adults in Des Moines/Urbandale
Farrell's Martial Arts is the top Taekwondo school in the Des Moines metro area. With a large and dedicated facility, full-time instructors and support staff, we are a professional family martial arts program.
We believe that martial arts training is more than just punching and kicking. Our focus is on teaching life skills that build stronger families and communities. We are a Black Belt school, which means we work with all of our students to set goals to earn their Black Belt.
Schedule your appointment with us today to learn more about the Farrell's program and how it can benefit you or your child(ren)!
Preschool Martial Arts
Our Little Dragons program provides a balance of gross motor skills, structure and fun!
Kids and Teens Martial Arts
Kids and teens will gain confidence, focus and learn how to deal with bullies!
Adult Martial Arts
Adult Taekwondo is a great way to get and stay fit, learn self-defense and set goals!
Kid's Birthday Parties in Urbandale
Don't reinvent the wheel when it comes to birthday parties! Farrell's has it figured out. Do something different to celebrate!
Group Self-Defense Classes
Get your group together to learn self-defense. It's a great team building experience and you learn a valuable skill!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Taekwondo?
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that develops self-defense, confidence, concentration, physical fitness, positive attitude, and self-esteem. The name comes from Tae (foot), Kwon (fist) and Do (art, way of life), literally meaning "the art of hand and foot". Currently, Taekwondo is practiced in over 158 countries with nearly 30 million practitioners are registered with the World Taekwondo Federation. Farrell's Martial Arts uses Taekwondo as a leadership tool to teach our students how to become strong and confident leaders.
What are the differences between Taekwondo and Karate?
Taekwondo is a Korean martial art and the national sport of South Korea. It combines combat techniques, self-defense, sport, exercise, and in some cases meditation and philosophy. Training generally includes a system of blocks, kicks, punches, and open-handed strikes and may also include various take-downs or sweeps, throws, and joint locks. It often incorporates self-defense techniques borrowed from other martial arts, such as hapkido and judo. Taekwondo sparring has been an Olympic event since 2000.
What ages are appropriate for studying Taekwondo?
Generally kids are ready to start Taekwondo at about the age of four. We currently have students between the ages of 4 and 74 years old! You are never too old to begin Taekwondo. There are numerous physical and mental benefits that can be obtained by students of all ages. Parents find Taekwondo training for their children helps build concentration, focus, self-discipline, and respect in and out of the dojang (school). This benefits the child in their education and later in life. Adult and more mature students find the physical benefits of increased flexibility, muscle toning, cardiovascular stamina and endurance, balance and coordination help improve their overall quality of life.
Does studying martial arts encourage violent behavior?
Quite the opposite. Martial Arts training cultivates a peaceful attitude in practitioners. Martial Arts training focuses on self-control, discipline, and self-defense. While children may emulate movies or television and play act violently towards each other, this behavior is frowned upon during Martial Arts instruction. Students quickly learn the power behind martial arts movements and appreciate the consequences that use of their training would entail.
Can parents stay to watch class?
Yes.
We like to see parents actively participating with their children as our programs offer an excellent opportunity to share time and bond in a unique, challenging, and fun method of physical exercise.
How long does it take to earn a Black Belt?
The time it will take to earn your black belt varies greatly depending on age and personal dedication. A dedicated student whom seldom misses classes and takes the opportunity to practice outside of the classroom will progress much more successfully than one that only meets minimum requirements. Students should ask their instructor what is safe and appropriate to practice outside of class.
Can I compete at tournaments?
Yes! We offer a competition team that grooms students to compete at local, regional and national levels of competition. Farrell's Martial Arts students regularly place at or near the top of the competitions we attend.
Are students required to compete in tournaments?
Tournament participation is not required. Many students find it is an enjoyable addition to their regular curriculum practice in the dojang (school). Students find the sense of competition heightens their mental focus and helps them push to new limits in their physical conditioning. The camaraderie and team building that goes along with participation in competitions helps encourage togetherness and healthy sport engagement among a school's students.
How much does it cost to train at Farrell's?
We have several membership packages available depending on your personal needs and goals. We have options ranging from single memberships to discounts for families. We welcome you to contact our staff to discuss these options with you.
What do I need to bring to my first martial arts lesson?
Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle. We'll walk you through some basics in a small group of other beginners. We have a ton of fun with these classes and we hope you will too!
How are you handling the COVID-19 Pandemic?
The safety and health of our staff, students and families is our top priority. Here are some of the things we do to keep everyone safe:
SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CLASS!