We are a Jin Moo Kwan Taekwondo school, so becoming part of a global brotherhood of friends and Taekwondo practitioners that have the same goal as you and a love of Taekwondo is a great step for you to take. Our school has been providing tuition, recognition, and resources on a National and International level for Taekwondo clubs, instructors, and students since 2003 here in the village of Longton, and we pride ourselves on being non-exclusive in that we are impartial when welcoming new students and instructors into the academy.
The JMK Preston club instructor holds the following qualifications:
Ofqual Level 5 Coaching qualification (RQF)
Paediatric First Aid Qualification
Designated Safeguarding Lead Certificate
Other annual CPD training courses
Enhanced DBS Disclosure Certificate (on the update service)
Chungdokwan 8th Dan Black Belt
Public Liability & Professional Indemnity Insurance
We are not a school that is concerned with ego or belt chasing, we simply aim to promote authentic Korean Chung Do Kwan Taekwondo to our members to give them a path or structure upon which to base themselves. Our Taekwondo Academy offers a non-political, professional Taekwondo environment and we welcome students from age 5 and above, ranging from complete beginner to seasoned athlete. The JMK committee can be found here
JMK Taekwondo Preston transcends mere sport. Here, we delve into a deeper understanding of the Korean Martial Art, focusing not on competitions and trophies, but on the holistic development of mind, body, and spirit, rejecting modern sporting agendas, JMK Preston embodies tranquillity and tradition, and our school's philosophy centres around the belief that Taekwondo is not just a means of combat, but a path to self-discovery and self-development. Our instructor is not just a coach, but a mentor who guide students on a journey of self-improvement, and through disciplined practice, we cultivate not only physical strength and agility but also mental resilience and emotional balance.
At the JMK Preston, the emphasis is on the art rather than the sport. Our curriculum is steeped in tradition, drawing from the rich heritage of Chungdokwan Taekwondo's roots. From the precise execution of patterns, to the mastery of breathing techniques, every aspect of training is designed to promote harmony and well-being. At our school, belts and rankings take a backseat to personal growth and self-mastery. While other schools may chase medals and accolades, we measure success by the transformation of our students both inside and outside of the dojang.
Our school focuses largely on Siljeon Taekwondo (실전 태권도)
Siljeon is a Korean word meaning "Real Combat" and represents a modern approach to traditional Taekwondo, emphasising practical self-defence skills and combat applications. In Siljeon Taekwondo, practitioners learn a comprehensive range of techniques tailored for self-defence scenarios encountered in everyday life. Training in Siljeon equips practitioners with the knowledge and skills to defend themselves in various situations, ranging from unarmed confrontations to armed attacks.
It also places a strong emphasis on mental and emotional preparation for self-defence situations. Our students are trained to develop heightened awareness, quick decision-making abilities, and a calm and focused mindset under pressure. Through disciplined training and realistic scenarios, students cultivate the confidence and resilience necessary to overcome adversity and protect themselves and others in dangerous situations. Siljeon is not just about self-defence, but also about personal empowerment and holistic development. It fosters physical fitness, mental resilience, and emotional well-being, instilling values of discipline, respect, and perseverance in its practitioners.
By combining traditional Taekwondo techniques with modern self-defence principles, Siljeon Taekwondo here at JMK Preston offers a comprehensive martial arts experience that prepares individuals for the challenges of today's world.
Master Cook is a former national-level gymnast, and his background in gymnastics plays a significant role in shaping his approach and effectiveness as a Taekwondo instructor. Gymnastics demands a high level of discipline, body control, flexibility, strength, and spatial awareness — all of which are crucial skills in martial arts like Taekwondo.
His experience as a gymnast gives him exceptional agility and balance, which allows him to demonstrate and teach complex kicking techniques with precision and confidence. The core strength and flexibility developed through years of gymnastics training also help him execute high-level movements and prevent injuries, which is especially important when teaching students of all ages and skill levels.
In addition, the mental toughness and focus required to compete as a gymnast at a national level translate seamlessly into martial arts instruction. Master Cook brings this mindset into the dojang, instilling perseverance, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic in his students. His unique blend of athletic experience enriches his teaching style and sets a high standard of excellence for his Taekwondo classes.