Get to know International Taekwon-Do Academy

About International Taekwon-Do Academy
in Arvada

Master Victor Teran

SaDoNim 8th Dan

Master Teran is owner and master instructor at International Taekwon-Do Academy and owner of RDX Supplements. Three-Time American Martial Arts Hall of Fame. Three-Time Martial Arts Hall of Honors. Actor. Fight Choreographer. Author. Featured in three iconic martial arts books, Chuck Norris’s martial arts masters an pioneers biography book. Ernie Reyes Sr and Bill “Super foot” Wallace, “Changing Lives”. Master Teran has been featured in several news articles. Martial Arts magazines. Commercials. Film(s).

Bringing his skills to magazines and commercials. He has built a solid reputation as a children’s book author, writer, business owner and martial arts instructor. Victor has been featured in Halo Dog Collar commercials, Hotel App commercials, professional video/photoshoot training for law enforcement’s escalation and de-escalation use of force. Martial arts magazines and media articles/interviews. Music video(s),featured films and Toyota commercial. In addition, Master Victor Teran was ranked in the top 3 at the 2022 Health & Fitness competition.

Served and defended our great nation from late 1996 until August 2013. Master Teran served in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, serving in Iraq for 10.5 years. He is currently an 8th Degree Master Instructor Trainer. U.S Marine Corps Combat Veteran. Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. Diplomatic Private security for Blackwater and Triple Canopy. Agent-in Charge; Direct hire for the U.S Department of State in the Diplomatic Security Service. Award-Winning children’s book Author. Ambassador for the American Military University.

Mr. Teran was first introduced to Taekwon-Do at age 5, in New York City. Presently training under his Great Grandmaster Kwang Duk Chung in New York. Mr. Teran became a Black belt at age 13, where he first started his initial training as an assistant instructor teaching children ages 8-12 and assisting the adult classes under his instructor’s supervision.

At the age of 15, Mr. Teran had the opportunity to compete at the Tri-State Championship in Virginia taking Gold in sparring and silver in the Grand Master Championship. Mr. Teran was a Silver medalist for the All-American Grand National Championship in New Jersey. In 2015, he competed once again in the 10th Metro Championship in New Jersey bringing home a Gold.

His hard work, dedication and determination has helped him learn and appreciate Taekwon-Do as an art and has been given the opportunity to travel to Seoul Korea to train with the Korean Olympic Team.

Upon his return to the United States, Mr. Teran was offered six more months to train in Seoul with the Olympic committee, as well as an opportunity to travel to Colorado Springs for the United States Olympic team trials. All these years of training, Taekwon-Do has given him the tools and discipline to take on any challenges life would throw at him. Mr. Teran joined the Marine Corps at age 18, attending Marine Corps Boot camp in Parris Island, South Carolina.

Upon graduation, Mr. Teran was stationed in Camp Lejeune North Carolina, taking on a new challenge as an Infantryman. In early 1999, he came across a Taekwon-Do Club where he continued his training, and within several weeks Mr. Teran became the Chief Instructor for the U.S. Marine Corps Taekwon-Do team. Mr. Teran’s main focus was on “fighting” drills while he was waiting for the approval to participate on the Pan American Games in late 1999.

In 2002, Mr. Teran attended the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program. Through hard work, blood and sweat he was able to move up the ranks and graduated as a Marine Corps Martial Arts/Close Combat Instructor trainer, teaching and training self defense to thousands of Marines. Mr. Teran continue his service in the military for eight years. He then left the Marine Corps to pursue other challenges in life. Mr. Teran not only became a close combat instructor (Hand-to-Hand), but also a Military Operation in Urban Terrain instructor (Urban Warfare), Enemy Prisoner of War instructor as well as attending Sniping and Counter Sniping instructor course. Mr. Teran attended many tactical courses to include intensive weapons training, tactical operations, medical training (John Hopkins), and multiple high threat evasive driving courses to name a few.

 In 2003, Mr. Teran deployed to Iraq, fighting the War on Terror. March 2004, he was Honorably Discharged and joined the U.S. State Department as a security specialist in the private security firms, stationed in Iraq; conducting high threat personal protection to high level dignitaries. During this time, Mr. Teran would train his teammates in close combat.
 
Mr. Teran’s promotions/titles: Personal Security Specialist; Tactical Commander; Quick Reaction Force Commander; Advance/Reconnaissance Cmdr. Air Recon & Reaction Force; Shift Leader, Detail leader/Unit Support Coordinator and finally Agent-in-Charge for the U.S. Ambassador/Consul General protective detail in Iraq. In addition to other high level Diplomatic Advisors under the U.S. Department of State – U.S. Foreign Government relation.

In 2011, Mr. Teran became the Chief Instructor for the Baghdad Taekwon-Do Club, where he trained the Iraqi Olympic Committee in Baghdad Iraq under a US – Iraqi Diplomatic program. Shortly after, Mr. Teran reported back to Washington DC for 6 month intensive training. Upon graduation from Diplomatic Security Training Center (U.S. State Department), he returned to Iraq as an Agent-in-Charge, serving in Northern and Southern Iraq. 

After ten and a half years operating in Iraq, Mr. Teran decided to resign his position from the Federal government to continue his teachings and training in the art that first taught him the basic fundamentals. “Taekwon-Do is a way of life, by following the tenets of Taekwon-Do it can only lead to success. What I have learned over all these years is not just kicking, punching or doing the exercise; but understanding the importance of these fundamentals and guidelines we must abide by. These guidelines are what made me successful in life and kept me alive”.

Mr. Teran’s understanding of the tenets of Taekwon-Do and the Marine Corps core values, is what he plans to bring forth into his school – courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, indomitable spirit, honor, courage and commitment. In addition, Mr. Teran is also looking forward to teaching the next generation of students and see them grow and learn the art of Taekwon-Do.

“One of the most rewarding things as a teacher is passing my knowledge and the love for the art. The greatest gift that I can receive is having those who want to put that extra effort to learn…”

Mr. Teran has received many awards and letters of recommendations from American Ambassadors in Iraq, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Consul General in Basra Iraq, Certificate of Appreciation from the Baghdad Taekwon-Do Club and many other Diplomatic figures/Prime minister(s) who were stationed in High Threat. The International Taekwon-Do Academy has received a ‘Letter of Proclamation’ from the Jersey City Mayor’s office. Letter from the New Jersey Governor Chris Christie and Governor Jared Polis from Colorado. Two Outstanding Leadership Awards signed by Mayor McCormac from Woodbridge, New Jersey.

Mr. Teran not only teaches martial arts and teamwork to the youth in our community, but he is also an Ambassador for the Student Veterans of America Chapter for the American Military University. His focus is to work with veterans’ outreach programs, partnering with other organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project to provide mentorship and training for the wounded veterans who suffer from post-traumatic stress syndrome, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, and traumatic brain injury.

Mr. Teran has also partnered with Play4Autism Foundation in New Jersey to provide training to children with autism spectrum disorder, as well as teaming with the “Dear Jack Foundation” in Colorado, who provides programs to adolescent and young adult cancer patients, survivors and family. This is a special project, because it is all about giving back to our community; in the belief that the opportunity to learn martial arts should be available to everyone, no matter their condition, setbacks or limitations.

International Taekwon-Do Academy has recently become an official certifying organization for the President’s volunteer service award. Which is partnered with AmeriCorps to support volunteerism and civic engagement. The efforts of our organization and volunteers is to inspire and provide hope to our community in time of need.

Mr. Teran is specialized not only is personal protection, but also been in the fitness industry for many years. His passion to teach self-defense and fitness to those wanting a positive change in their lives.

In addition, Mr. Teran has also been accepted and is part of the Men’s Health Fitness Council, where he will share fitness strategies/exercises.

Mr. Teran is always seeking self-improvement and whomever is part of his team, he will ensure to do the same for them. “Our training is reality based, as well as the art of Taekwon-Do. I don’t just teach kicking and punching; but also share life experiences with my students that has helped me become a better person in life. I teach the DO in Taekwon-DO. We do this as a way of life, not as a sport but as a Martial Artist. Elevating our Martial Spirit in every training session. In order for my students to progress and learn about the DO, I must continue to train and learn from my Great Grandmaster; Kwang Duk Chung.

“I must always set the example for my students to follow… If not, what kind of Master will I be?”

International Taekwon-Do Academy has been awarded:

  1. 2023 Best Martial Arts School in Arvada – Quality Rating +95%
  2. 2023 Best of Arvada – Colorado Community Media
  3. Best of Jersey City – 6 Consecutive Years.
  4. Business Hall of Fame – 8 Consecutive Years.
  5. Best School in championships – 7 Consecutive Years.
  6. Martial Arts Excellence Award – 4 Consecutive Years.
  7. Ranked Top Ten “Best Master Instructor” in New Jersey for 3 Consecutive Years.
  8. Best School in the Garden State Cup.
  9. New Jersey Metro Championship – 5 Consecutive Years.
  10. New Jersey State Championship – 4 Consecutive Years.
  11. Colorado State Championship 2023
  12. Best Martial Arts School in Arvada, Colorado 2023
  13. Nominated Family Favorites in the Colorado Parent Magazine 2023
  14. United States National Championship – 7 Consecutive Years.
  15. Junior Olympic Championship – 2 Consecutive Years
  16. World Taekwon-Do Championship 2023
  17. Invited as Team USA at the World Taekwon-Do Championship 2024
  18. Official “Kombat Taekwon-Do” Licensed club

Prior to the Pandemic, International Taekwon-Do Academy was invited to the World Taekwon-Do Championship in Argentina and Bulgaria.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity in continuing our services in our community and making a difference one student at a time!

What people are saying about International Taekwon-Do Academy

Marcia Clarke
Parent
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FANTASTIC SCHOOL!
My son started about 8 months ago and it's one of the best decisions I've ever made. The teacher is amazing, he's firm and patient but make no mistake he expects the students to do their best and nothing less. But, let me not leave out the most important aspect, my son wants to be there! Don't hesitate try it!!!
Shirley Gaviria
Parent
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GREAT INSTRUCTOR
My daughter has been attending classes for a short time but enough to realize that the teaching is very good as well as the discipline and respect that is very important, I recommend this school.
Richelle Kautz
Student
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SKILLED, KNOWLEDGEABLE & DEDICATED!
Master Teran is highly skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated teacher. You can't help but feel motivated and determined to give your 100% every class session. He truly cares for his students and encourages them to do and be their best in and outside of Taekwon-do. His classes are engaging, technical, and thoroughly explained. If you're looking for something challenging, energetic, and highly rewarding in a team environment, this is the place to be. Highly recommend for all ages, this is a great school if you wish to learn self-defense and self-discipline.
Leah Marizan
Parent
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PROFESSIONAL & ENCOURAGING!
My son is taking classes here and I couldn't be happier with the level of professionalism and personal attention the instructor pays to the kids. I can see that the firm but encouraging coaching has given my son great confidence in his ability to try new things that would otherwise seem difficult. I would highly recommend this class for anyone of any age, even my husband and I want to take Tae Kwon Do now (and we're anything but athletic)!
Vipin S.
Parent
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HARD WORKING INSTRUCTOR!
Most genuine hardworking Taekwondo teacher I have every found. He connects with kids and help them making physically and mentally stronger and better person for society. I was lucky to have him as Taekwondo teacher for my kids. My elder one became red belt and younger one yellow belt when I had to move out of Jersey City and relocate to Florida. I couldn't find any ITF teacher near to my location so the only option left was WTF where all forms were different than ITF. We hesitantly went to WTF teacher for demo classes and to my surprise my kids excelled and demonstrated what's they learned in ITF. My elder one has defeated all WTF Black belts there and became star in very first day. He is awarded WTF red black stripe belt and soon to become black belt. Even the younger one performed well and was given yellow belt in WTF. This is very heart touching to us as it was big change for my kids but due to hard work and mental strength they learned from Master Vic Teran, they could adapt the change and excelled. Thanks again to Master Vic Teran. May God bless him!
Derrick M.
Parent
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COMMITTED TO HIS STUDENTS!
My son has been training under the tutelage of Master Victor Teran for more than two years and I couldn't be happier with how much he's grown as a person and as a student of Taekwondo. Master Vic's commitment to his students is unparalleled. He instills discipline, respect, teamwork and much more in all those he trains. He treats his students like family and pushes them to realize their full potential. He's an amazing instructor! If you have a child or children who are interested in learning the art of Taekwondo, bring them to Master Vic. You will not be disappointed!
Yolanda Amato
Parent
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PASSIONATE INSTRUCTOR
Master Vic is passionate about teaching & helping his students learn Taekwondo. His military background is very, very impressive. He also takes pride in his work & is proud of his students' accomplishments. He is friendly with the students and gives them encouraging words to always do better. The school participates in a couple of competitions throughout the year. This is very good exposure for the students that participate because they put all they've learned into effect. As a parent, it's such a happy feeling to see your child put all these forms/techniques together to defend himself or herself! In addition, we have a yearly picnic trip & an annual anniversary award dinner which both events are so much fun for the kids & parents as well. We signed up our son after being at another school for two years. We are very happy & more than satisfied with our son's accomplishments under Master Vic's training & guidance. He's gained self confidence & enjoys going to his training classes! The cost of the classes are very reasonable! You will not find a better school, than our school! In 2015 & 2016 we were awarded the "Best School!"
Matt Ranghel
Student
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GREAT MOTIVATOR!
Master Vic has a passion for teaching Taekwondo. He is a great motivator and is very enthusiastic about helping his students reach goals and break barriers. My son and I both attend classes and I have seen great improvements in our training. Even when training gets difficult Master Vic gives you the confidence to keep pushing on which has been helpful. His leadership and guidance is much appreciated and it inspires greatness out of his students.
Neena S.
Parent
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NOT JUST AN INSTRUCTOR, BUT ALSO A LIFE COACH!
My two boys have been going to this martial arts school for over 4 months now. These days most of the kids leisure time is consumed by playing computer games, watching TV and other sedentary activities. My primary goal was to provide them with some form of physical exercise. To my pleasant surprise, ITA is much more than physical activity and self-defence. Vic Teran plays the dual role of a martial arts instructor and a life coach. Kids become both mentally and physically fit, and hopefully, they also become better human beings. This institute is very unlike other institutes that mostly run for money. It is extremely hard to find a dedicated teacher. If you do find one, you know well enough to not let him go.
Vaishali P.
Parent
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RESPECT & ADMIRATION
Passion is infectious. You learn the best when your teacher is passionate and Master Vic Terran is martial arts passion personified. In addition to teaching martial arts, he also inculcates an important set of values that help you as grown up. Respect, timeliness, discipline, hard work and perseverance are some of them. He maintains a fine balance by being a tough task master and courteous/caring at the same time. I see a lot of respect and admiration in the eyes of students and he has earned every bit of it. Unlike other Taekwondo classes in jersey city, belts are not for sale. One has to EARN them. One week free trial session is available. Go ahead and give it a try. You have nothing to lose.
Daya S.
Parent
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POSITIVE ROLE MODEL!
Teaching Taekwondo is Master Victor Teran's passion. His profile is very impressive, having served in the marine corp during Iraq war as well as being involved in military training. Each batch runs three times a week and each session lasts for an hour. Students wanting to practice more are welcome to come for a fourth session on Saturdays. Passion and not money is his primary motive. A passionate teacher ignites the same zeal and enthusiasm in all his students. He is strict, caring, jovial and manages to strike a perfect balance of all these qualities. He pushes students to do well by positive motivation and takes them to championships to encourage them to do bring out the best in them. My daughter has been taking classes for over two months now and I am seeing positive changes in her. She is more active and more confident. Taekwondo way of life is not just about achieving physical fitness and self-defense. Students are bound to achieve mental strength and discipline as well. Most schools in US lack adequate training in mental strength and discipline and these qualities go a long way in achieving academic success. Taekwondo learnt from the rights masters would compliment school education. I highly recommend learning it from Master Victor Teran.
Morisa M.
Student
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PHENOMENAL INSTRUCTOR
Out of everything I've tried to get physically in shape (fitness classes, the gym, etc.), ITA is the only place where I feel like I'm truly bettering myself, mentally and physically, while also becoming part of a family. Master Victor is a phenomenal instructor, he pushes you physically to bring out the best you while also being considerate of your fitness level. Classes are personal and informative, with a good mix of technical training and fast paced exercises to build stamina. With good people and kick-butt training, I always look forward to coming to class!
Jadore O.
Parent
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HUGE IMPROVEMENT IN BEHAVIOR!
Master Victor is the best instructor we have EVER come across. He really cares about the kids in his class and puts so much love and effort into each session. The parents and students become like family and Master Vic is the father of the group. I noticed a huge improvement in the attitude and behavior of my daughters who attend his class. His sessions are not like your typical "commercial" Tae Kwon Do studio. They typically last 30mins + 3 days a week with minimal results. His session lasts longer and he focuses on the mental and physical aspects of each student. I have a LONG list of positives when it comes to Master Victor and you can't find ANY Instructor like him! I highly recommend ITA
Kat F.
Parent
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INCREASED CONFIDENCE!
If I could, I'd rate ITA even higher. Vic is a tremendous teacher and role model for the kids and the parents too! Yes, I have seen my son progress immensely in TaeKwon-Do since he started there 6 months ago, but more importantly his character has progressed as well. He's learned helpfulness, mindfulness, dedication, and has a stronger work ethic and confidence because of his time at ITA and has forged a sense of camaraderie with his teammates. I couldn't possibly be happier with our experience here.
Thea M.
Parent
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OVER-THE-TOP DEDICATED!
I give the International TaeKwon-Do Academy a 5 star for this simple but extremely important fact, the owner is over-the-top dedicated and will do anything and everything to help make you or your child's experience the very best it can possibly be!
Dalen G.
Student
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STAMINA DOUBLED!
Victor Teran is a fantastic instructor. He is passionate, driven and very skilled in TKD as an art-form. He utilizes a deep, military self-defense background to give his students a well-rounded education, and his "bootcamp" style workouts could make Tony Horton cry. In under two months of training, my stamina has nearly doubled, I feel stronger and my skills as a martial artist have grown. If you want to get in shape, master your body and mind and learn to defend yourself, ITA is the school for you. Come try his free introductory class and you will see for yourself!
Robert D.
Student
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KNOWLEDGEABLE & CARING!
Vinny is probably one of the most knowledgeable and professional martial arts instructors, I have ever had the pleasure knowing. Working alongside Vinny in Iraq for a number of years, we would spend hours discussing martial arts history and forms. You cannot find a more patient and understanding instructor than Vinny. Additionally, the work he has done for Veteran community is remarkable. Vinny has worked very closely with the Wounded Warrior Project, by offering special classes to our Veterans. Thank you Vinny!
Bethany O.
Student
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VERY CHALLENGING, BUT REWARDING!
One word! WOW! My friend and I signed up for a series of classes at the academy, and expected it to be a class that would simply go alongside our regular gym sessions, we were happily mistaken. The class with Vic challenged us physically and mentally and was so rewarding that we felt better every time we returned. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and because of the intimacy of the space and the size of the classes you have the attention you need to learn and grow. I will always return! Thank you so much!
Sam Tareki
Student
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EXEMPLARY INSTRUCTOR!
Excellent program, Victor came highly recommended. His support and that of his team truly demonstrates his expertise and love for the sport. Add that to his past service and goals of helping so many, truly without doubt he leads by example helping mold the kids in his classes to be bright leaders. Victor pushes the kids to not only train in his class but to take hold of their studies and their futures helping guide them to be better, stronger and more humble members of society. His training experience helped me achieve my weight loss goals and helped me become more active in other activities and sports I had avoided in the past. I definitely 100% recommend him for any weight loss or martial art program. Vic teaches discipline and respect in his young athletes, with nothing but good reviews from teachers and coaches alike. Excellent defense training for law enforcement officers like myself. I enjoy training after work before my commute home everyday. Well worth it *****
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International Taekwon-Do Academy

Although many people think the martial arts are just about fighting, the truth is that the physical “kicking and punching” are really just the tools that I use to teach the more important, and MUCH more valuable lessons about yourself.

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