Young Brothers Taekwondo — Local services in Houston

the short version: awesome two-week intro package concerns are addressed play area for younger siblings no water fountain for students... despite the fact that the temperature of the facility is quite uncomfortably warm instructor called our kids "lazy" crowded parking, rude parents strict no-tardy policy

tips: bring a water bottle for your child, park at Black Eye Pea, if you don't want your kid to be extra hot, in addition to the two-week fee, buy a logo t-shirt ($15)

The long version: Last summer, I brought my son in and he felt like the instructors were too loud and rough. I was really disappointed because he was really looking forward to it.

I came back this summer and signed up for the two week session for both him and his little brother. He was excited at first, but after he changed, he was afraid to go in, maybe he remembered that he was scared last time? Anyhow, with the help of the instructor (thankfully!) he eventually made it in and had a great time. One of my friends started her son with us, and she heard the instructor tell our boys during their private lesson, "that's not how you do it, that's how lazy people do it." We talked to Kim, the wife of the owner at the front desk, and she assured us that it'd be addressed. I felt good that she shared our concern.

Today, I came 15 min. late for the younger class (got my class times mixed up) and the receptionist said that my second son was too late, no one is allowed in more than 10 min. late. No exceptions. :( It was noticeably hot right when I walked in and it was unbearable after being there 10 minutes. No wonder all the students are in a t-shirt and uniform pants. We were there for an hour and a half, talk about heat exhaustion. During the break for my first son, he said he didn't have water. There are no water fountains there. Only bottled water for sale. No water fountains at an exercise facility?

Then someone asked who's driving a _. It was me. I asked, do I need to move it for someone because they're leaving or should I just not park there? He said sometimes you can park there if you leave right after a class... makes sense. It seemed to me several families were there for several classes like I was... Well, I came out and two separate drivers were yelling at me from their car for parking there. I said, "Sorry, it's only my 2nd day. Yesterday, there were 3-4 other cars parked there so I pulled up next to them, but I won't do it again." Still, they continued to insult me: are you blind? Can't you see? We've been trying to drive around you. This is the second time you've done this to us. I said, I understand, and another driver yelled, "NO, you don't understand!" Omgosh, ironic how they're sending there kids for character building yet berate another person for a mistake in front of their kids.

I came inside and the man who asked me was actually the owner. He immediately asked me how it was and if I was ok, as if he had a feeling the crowd would eat me alive. It probably wouldn't have been that bad if he had walked me out, idk. He offered to talk to the parents, but I don't know who they are... I was literally crying at this point. Crying. From taking my kids to martial arts.

I was hoping this place would teach my boys self defense and good character, and build a community of respectful families but not here. The drop-off/pick-up/parking craze that accompanies extracurriculars is not for the faint of heart. If you can't handle it, keep your kids at home.

This probably isn't the first time YBT has had a parking issue. There needs to be painted lines for parking. I was told by another friend that we can park behind Black Eye Peas, good to know. Too bad I won't be returning. Hopefully, they'll stand by their program and give me a refund, otherwise I'm confident my cc co. will remove the cost from my statement... will...

Young Brothers Taekwondo on Bellaire has been a wonderful place for our children to grow up learning not only physical fitness though this type of martial art, but ALSO respect and courtesy towards adults, and discipline. We have been bringing our children for classes there for many years, and my husband and I are so proud of what our son (12) and daughter (10) have accomplished over the years. The owners, the Giambi family, are such warm and caring people, and because of them, we have continued to encourage our children to learn this martial art. Master Giambi himself is truly dedicated to Taekwondo and has taught us to persevere, despite our daughter wanting give up at blue belt. (At four years of age she begged and pleaded with me to let her start taking classes since she saw her older brother doing it.) All of the instructors have been very professional and expect children to try their best, as any parent would want their child to do. The location on Bellaire is great for us, and the class schedule is flexible. I like the fact that there are several class options to choose from on several different days. Classes are given year-round, and you can make your own schedule, unlike most other sports that have seasons with certain practice days and weekend games. I highly recommend Young Brothers as a place for families who want their children to grow up learning the tenets of Taekwondo, that is, courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and an...

My sons and I have been practicing Taekwondo at Young Brothers Bellaire for the past 6 years. This is an excellent place for children and adults, and for beginners as well as very advanced martial artists.

The owner is Grandmaster Mark Giambi, 9th degree black belt. Master Giambi is highly respected, has awarded more than 2,000 black belts, and trained many competitors including national and Olympic champions. At the same time, he is very friendly, patient, and always willing to explain things. His knowledge of Taekwondo as a traditional martial art as well as an Olympic competition sport are exceptional.

There are classes 6 days a week, for toddlers, children, and adults (including teenagers). Typical classes include warm-up, stretching, kicking practice, forms, and sparring. Classes for children are usually led by several instructors. Taekwondo is great for children as it teaches discipline and perseverance. As an adult, I enjoy the stringent workout and focused training that helps relax the mind after a busy day at work.

I highly recommend Young Brothers Taekwondo in Bellaire. Covid-19 precautions are in place, everybody wears masks and equipment is sanitized...