Celtic Coast TKD
KOREA, 1955.
KILMORE, 2026.
SAME ART. SAME FIRE.
General Choi Hong Hi created Taekwondo with one goal — to build people as well as athletes. Sixty years later it's one of the most practised martial arts on the planet, with millions of practitioners across the globe. There's a reason for that. Actually, there are several.
The Philosophy
THE FIVE TENANTS
Taekwondo is a modern martial art developed by General Choi Hong Hi, mixing combat techniques, self-defence, sport and philosophy.
- Courtesy
- Integrity
- Perseverance
- Self-Control
- Indomitable Spirit
THE FOUR ASPECTS OF ITF TAEKWONDO
- A form of self-defence
- A competitive activity
- A means of / way of life
- A tool for social development
What You Actually Learn
TAEKWONDO ISN'T JUST KICKING PADS.
It's four things rolled into one:
A sport
Compete at national and international level — Mr. Winters has the medals to prove what's possible.
Real self-defence
Techniques that work in the real world, not just in the gym.
A mindset shift
Focus, discipline and confidence that show up in every part of your life.
A global community
Join millions of practitioners worldwide under the ITF banner.
PATTERNS
Patterns, or Tul, are the very soul of Taekwon-Do. They are not merely a sequence of movements, but a systematic series of offensive and defensive techniques designed against an imaginary opponent. Each of the twenty-four patterns represents a single hour of the day — symbolizing the span of a human life in the face of eternity.
SPARRING
Sparring, or Matsogi, is the practical application of Taekwon-Do techniques — the crucible where the student's skill, courage, and judgment are tested. It is the logical progression from patterns, transforming theoretical movements into fluid, spontaneous action against a living opponent. Whether through controlled three-step sparring or the intensity of free sparring, the goal remains the same: to cultivate a keen eye, the ability to read an adversary's intent, and the mastery of distance and timing. It is not a display of raw aggression, but a disciplined exercise in technical proficiency and mental composure.
SPECIAL TECHNIQUE
Special Technique, or Tukgi, is the ultimate expression of the Taekwon-Do practitioner's physical prowess and tactical versatility. These flying techniques allow the student to overcome environmental obstacles and strike targets far beyond the reach of a grounded opponent. By utilizing momentum, high-speed jumping, and precise body mechanics, we transform the entire body into a weapon capable of reaching great heights or distances. More than just a demonstration of acrobatic skill, Tukgi demands a perfect fusion of balance, timing, and the 'Theory of Power' to deliver a decisive blow while suspended in mid-air.
DESTRUCTION
Power Breaking, or Wi Ryok, serves as the definitive proof of the Taekwon-Do practitioner's technical precision and raw force. It is the method by which we confirm the efficacy of our strikes without risking injury to a human opponent. By shattering wood, tiles, or bricks, the student demonstrates the perfect application of the 'Theory of Power' — the harmonization of reaction force, equilibrium, breath control, and speed. Destruction is not a feat of brute strength; it is a testament to the concentration of spirit and the absolute focus of energy into a single, devastating point of impact.
Who's It For
EVERYONE. GENUINELY.
ANY AGE, ANY LEVEL
Six years old to adult. Total beginner to seasoned competitor. Taekwondo scales completely to you — your age, your fitness, your goals.
YOU GET FIT WITHOUT NOTICING
Because you're too busy having fun to realise you're working hard. Cardio, flexibility, strength and coordination — all in one session.
IT CHANGES HOW YOU CARRY YOURSELF
Calmer under pressure. More focused. More confident. Ask anyone who trains.
Official & Recognised
THE ITA
Celtic Coast TKD trains under the Irish Taekwondo Association — the official governing body for ITF Taekwondo in Ireland. Every belt you earn, every grade you pass, every competition you enter is fully recognised in Ireland and internationally. You're not just joining a local class. You're joining a global sport with real structure, real progression, and real rewards.
Mr. Winters is Level 1 ITA certified, Sport Ireland certified, Garda vetted, safeguarding certified and first aid qualified. You and your family are in safe hands.
SOUND GOOD? FIRST CLASS IS ON US.
No gear. No experience. No catch. Just show up.