The regions 'only' traditional and accredited practical Taekwondo School
While some clubs may promote their success and popularity primarily through competition, sporting achievement and competitive affiliations, traditional Taekwondo has a broader purpose, rooted in practical self-defence, personal development and self-discipline helping individuals develop greater confidence, resilience and self-control, while becoming stronger, more capable and better versions of themselves, both physically and mentally.
Sport Taekwondo is designed to win within a set of limitations and rules. Traditional martial-arts Taekwondo is designed to develop the skills, mindset and discipline needed beyond the rules. "We train for real - not for points!"
Know the difference - are you just being taught sport or a Martial Art?
One Month FREE!
Bristol's No 1 for Authentic - Traditional - Practical - Taekwondo
Taekwondo is a relatively modern Martial Art combining elements of Taekkyeon and other Korean martial practices, together with karate and other martial arts encountered by Korean practitioners during the Japanese occupation and afterwards. The name Taekwondo emerged in the 1950’s after a significant joining of various ‘Kwans’ (Schools), including the Chung Do Kwan.
It was originally developed as a Martial Art of self-defence incorporating blocks, strikes, kicks, restraints, throws, take downs and even some weapons based on physical conditioning and military style discipline. The likes of original pioneers such as Grand Master Duk, Sun-Song, President of Chung Do Kwan, having succeeded its founder Lee, Won-Kuk, and Kim, Bok-Man were instrumental in its foundation.
Over subsequent decades, different organisations moved away from its original concept and focussed primarily on a sporting emphasis. Competition dropped many of the combat effective techniques in favour of more formalised rules and restricted techniques adopting sporting clothing and equipment. Today most Taekwondo schools are predominantly sports based aimed primarily at children and young people where practical training is replaced by regimes aimed at scoring points and winning competitions.
Whilst remaining loyal to Chung Do Kwan, we still adhere to the original concept as Taekwondo being first and foremost a Martial Art of Self-Defence and continue to practice and teach a comprehensive range of techniques and skills not taught in sports based Taekwondo schools. We are the only Taekwondo School in the region accredited and authorised by founding pioneer Grand Master Kim, Bok-Man and the World Practical Taekwondo Academy.
Following the oriental tradition of naming Martial Arts Schools that reflect core values we have adopted the name of ‘IL DO KWAN’ (일도관) meaning ‘One Way School’ or ‘First Way Hall’ to represent our philosophy of practicing Taekwondo as it was first intended: A martial art taught primarily for practical application having a practical training objective. Rather than restricting training to techniques permitted within a sporting ruleset, that can explore a broader curriculum including kicks, punches, blocks, throws, takedowns, restraints, escapes and other effective applications, alongside traditional forms, conditioning and martial discipline.
Traditional Values. Practical Taekwondo.
Our school is dedicated to preserving and teaching authentic, traditional and practical Chung Do Kwan Taekwondo, under the guidance of accredited 9th Dan Grand Master Andy Davies — a former nine-time British Champion, European Silver Medallist, Champion of Champions winner and inductee into the World Martial Arts Hall of Fame.
Having experienced the world of competitive Martial Arts at a high level, Grand Master Andy Davies understands both its value and its limitations. He believes competition can sometimes become a distraction from the deeper purpose and founding principles of Taekwondo — the development of the individual through martial skill, self-defence, discipline and personal growth.
Andy Davies with
Grand Master Kim, Bok-Man
Classes
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Our family classes are built on a simple belief: training together strengthens families. When parents step onto the mat alongside their children, the dynamic shifts from watching on the sidelines to learning and growing as a team. This shared experience creates stronger bonds, deeper trust, and a sense of unity, as both parent and child support each other through challenges and celebrate progress together. It also provides dedicated, high-quality time away from daily distractions, helping families connect in a meaningful and lasting way.
Training side by side allows parents to actively model the values at the heart of Taekwondo—discipline, respect, resilience, and integrity. Children don’t just hear these lessons; they see them in action. As families progress together, earning belts and overcoming obstacles, they build confidence, mutual respect, and a shared mindset that extends far beyond the dojang. Our family classes aren’t just about learning martial arts—they’re about building stronger, more connected families.
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Join Us Today
Now is the perfect moment to begin your journey. If you’re genuinely committed to learning — whether for yourself or your family — we’re offering a full one-month FREE trial to experience Traditional Chung Do Kwan Taekwondo the way it was meant to be taught. Our approach is authentic, practical, and rooted in real martial arts principles, all within a welcoming, family-focused environment that supports every student’s growth. We believe it is far easier to build strong, confident children than to repair broken adults — which is why we place such importance on developing discipline, resilience, and self-belief from an early age.
At the same time, it’s never too late to start. Adults of all ages can benefit enormously from stepping onto the mat — improving fitness, reducing stress, and rediscovering a sense of purpose through a fun, structured, and rewarding activity. Unlike many modern Taekwondo clubs that emphasise competition and point scoring, our focus is on effective self-defence, practical skill development, and meaningful personal progress. Spaces are limited to maintain the quality of training and individual attention — so if you’re ready to make a positive change, now is the time to join.
Grand Master Andy Davies and Master Jim Mulcrone look forward to welcoming you to the start of your one month FREE trial.
