Spirit Tae Kwon Do emphasizes courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit in Fairview Ave. location

By TESHA M. CHRISTENSEN

Spirit Tae Kwon Do (TKD) at 655 Fairview offers lessons in traditional and Olympic-style Tae Kwon Do. “Our mission statement is to share the beauty of Tae Kwon Do while strengthening the practitioner with the five tenets observed in the art,” explained co-owner Agnes Espino.

Spirit TKD‘s main focus is on courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit.

Agnes’ husband, Spirit TKD instructor, Joe Espino, is a firm believer that to be a well-rounded martial artist, one must master oneself first.

Agnes added, “Our lessons are based on uplifting the practitioner to gain confidence, self-awareness and a sense of community involvement.”

PHOTO LEFT: Spirit Taekwondo is a member of USA Taekwondo Association. Students attend, compete and support local and national tournaments. Spirit Taekwondo houses local grand champions and National Olympians. (Photo submitted)

This emphasis on strong moral values is what sets Spirit Tae Kwon Do apart.

“The views of Spirit Tae Kwon Do towards martial arts is not based on physical capability alone,” pointed out Agnes. “It is not based on the financial status of an individual. It is, however, based on the practitioner’s attitude on adapting the art in their everyday life.”

Strong family bonds

Spirit Tae Kwon Do offers a variety of classes for adults and children age five and up. Siblings and parents are encouraged to take family classes together.

In fact, that’s how the Espino family became involved in Tae Kwon Do. Joe, Agnes and their two daughters began training together at USA Tae Kwon Do in Farmington, Minn. in 2005.

Born and raised in Chicago, Joe had always enjoyed martial and combative arts, including Kung Fu, boxing, kickboxing and Tae Kwon Do.

Upon seeing the benefits of what Tae Kwon Do had to offer, Joe decided to become a practitioner. He found that it helped him in growing closer to his family, friends and community.

He studied under Master Luong Pham and Master Hoang Danh. In 2010, as a Master instructor, Joe open Spirit Tae Kwon Do in St. Paul on Grand Ave.

“Spirit Tae Kwon Do strongly believes in strong family bonds and a nourishment of one’s spirit,” said Agnes.

Spirit TKD families are supportive of each other, welcoming towards newcomers and understand the importance of community involvement.

Master Joe works with people from all walks of life. He enjoys helping families become closer to each other. He also works with individuals that have autism and social anxiety, finding activities and hosting focus sessions for children with special needs.

Adults and kids experience physical benefits, such as increased strength, stamina, energy, flexibility, balance and faster reflexes; as well as the mental benefits of improved concentration, reduced stress levels and increased levels of relaxation throughout the day.

Becoming role models

“Tae Kwon Do can give the practitioner confidence, motivation and initiative. The practitioner exercises their body physically, their mind mentally and their soul spiritually. Tae Kwon Do opens up new outlooks on life,” said Agnes. “They make friends, achieve goals and ultimately become role models through the art of Tae Kwon Do.”

Spirit Tae Kwon Do is a member of USA Tae Kwon Do Association. Students attend, compete and support local and national tournaments. Spirit Tae Kwon Do houses local grand champions and National Olympians. Spirit Tae Kwon Do provides after school programs and lessons to St. Paul public schools and St. Paul area private schools.

Spirit Tae Kwon Do also offers other packages such as Tae Kwon Do-style birthday parties, fundraisers, holidays and social events, demonstrations and private lessons.

Interested individuals can call 651-428-6170. Or, stop by for a free class. For more information, browse www.istkd.com or visit one of their two Facebook pages: Spirit Tae Kwon Do St. Paul and Spirit Tae Kwon Do School.