Get to Know Us

About Transcending Martial Arts

Port Coquitlam's top-rated martial arts school, building confidence, discipline, and community for students of all ages.

What We Stand For

Our Core Values

Everything we do is guided by a set of values that shape our instruction, our community, and the experience of every student who walks through our doors.

Discipline & Focus

We teach structure and consistency that build strong habits on the mat and in everyday life. Discipline isn't punishment; it's the foundation for achievement.

Respect & Integrity

Mutual respect between students, instructors, and our community is non-negotiable. We lead by example and hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity.

Confidence Through Growth

We celebrate progress at every level, not just trophies and belt promotions. Every small victory builds the self-belief that carries into school, work, and life.

Welcoming

Our doors are open to all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. Whether you're 5 or 55, a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner, you belong here.

Safety First

A clean facility, trained staff, and age-appropriate instruction aren't optional. They're our baseline. Parents trust us with their children, and we take that responsibility seriously.

Community

We're more than a gym. We're a second family. Our students support each other, celebrate each other's wins, and build friendships that last well beyond the mat.

Why Families Choose Us

What Sets Us Apart

Our certified instructors bring years of experience and follow a proven curriculum designed to build skills at every level. With a clean, welcoming facility and a supportive team, families feel at home from day one.

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Training at Transcending Martial Arts

Our Promise

A Commitment to Every Student

We promise to provide a safe, supportive, and challenging environment where every student can grow in skill, character, and confidence. From your very first class to your highest achievement, we'll be in your corner every step of the way.

Meet the Team

The People Behind Transcending Martial Arts

Our instructors are the heart and soul of our academy. Every member of our team is dedicated to helping you reach your full potential.

Grand Master Sung B. Kim

Grand Master Sung B. Kim

Founder of TMA

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Grand Master Jae Y. Kim

Grand Master Jae Y. Kim

Head Master

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Master Dylan Staples

Master Dylan Staples

Master Instructor

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Dale Pratt

Dale Pratt

Head Instructor

Samman Ahani

Samman Ahani

Instructor

Scott Chan

Scott Chan

Instructor

Melissa Matwiv

Melissa Matwiv

Instructor

Nathan Jacobson

Nathan Jacobson

Assistant Instructor

Kaitlyn Nunotani

Kaitlyn Nunotani

Assistant Instructor

Radin Alaediny

Radin Alaediny

Assistant Instructor

Logan Wong

Logan Wong

Assistant Instructor

Ethan Nunotani

Ethan Nunotani

Assistant Instructor

Vincent Cheng

Vincent Cheng

Assistant Instructor

Gabriel Bologea

Gabriel Bologea

Instructor

Colin Vance

Colin Vance

Assistant Instructor

Dr. Alexander Chapman

Dr. Alexander Chapman

Instructor

Charles Pan

Charles Pan

Assistant Instructor

Dr. Adrian Moise

Dr. Adrian Moise

Assistant Instructor

What Our Community Says

Real Reviews From Real Students

Don't just take our word for it. Hear from the students and families who train with us every day.

★★★★★

"From the very beginning, we felt welcomed and comfortable here. The classes are inspiring, energetic, and create such a positive environment for the students. The instructors are not only skilled and disciplined, but also genuinely kind and patient with the kids. You can tell..."

L M L M
★★★★★

"The instructors truly possess a deep understanding of Taekwondo, balancing technical precision with an approachable teaching style that keeps kids engaged. Alos, the atmosphere is welcoming and supportive. Whether a child is naturally athletic or a bit more reserved, I'm sure..."

Jin C Jin C
★★★★★

"I absolutely love this martial arts school! I had a few choices in my area but this school stood out the best. Master Jae is a very caring and bubbly person but very firm and disciplined. He doesn't just teach martial arts, he also teaches respect, discipline and life lessons...."

Christian Aguinaldo Christian Aguinaldo
★★★★★

"Truly an amazing teacher. Love you Master Jae. I’ve tried 5 different martial art classes before someone suggesting me this place, and the search was over. Teaches them love, passion, responsibility on top of the MA!!! Love and support this place"

Soheil Eghtesadi Soheil Eghtesadi
★★★★★

"We just finished a test, not only did it give a decent work out. I know I can memorize and handle healthy stress much better because of it. If you want to be both fit and smart join TMA!"

Samman Ahani Samman Ahani
★★★★★

"Handsome tma master and trains us with the original techniques. Doesn't give us stress and makes us wanna come here. He's the best u have to try. Im a black belt and I really like here."

Sam Panah Sam Panah
★★★★★

"Grandmaster is welcoming and funny but still teaches strict and makes sure that you learn everything you need to know about taekwondo."

Qwertyuoip Qwertyuoip
★★★★★

"I signed up my teen age son last year because he was shy and introverted. Strange to say… One of the main factors of choosing this school was the clean restroom. The restroom was so clean and it didn’t even smell as all. And the whole school was clean and well organized. I am..."

Candace Hajek Candace Hajek
★★★★★

"TMA is a great place to train in martial arts! Master Jae and all of the instructors are super friendly, extremely patient, expertly trained and great motivators. They are especially good at teaching discipline and respect to younger students, but still keeping the classes fun...."

Shane Matthews Shane Matthews
★★★★★

"Since young, I have spent my time training here at Transcending Martial Arts under the guidance of Master Jae Kim. I have amassed a wide variety of knowledge that could not have otherwise been attainable anywhere else. My time here has been memorable, and I feel that no other..."

Brendan Saw Brendan Saw
★★★★★

"I have been training at Transcending Martial Arts for over ten years. My experience with Transcending Martial Arts has been phenomenal, and they have provided me a great learning experience. The instructors here are very welcoming, friendly, and caring. They teach you not only..."

Andy Andy
★★★★★

"I signed up my two kids here after visiting several schools in Port Moody, Poco and Coquitlam. This school is very clean with no smell which is very important to me. I noticed the Master Instructor and Instructors are cleaning the school every morning and every night. All..."

Virginia Lloy Virginia Lloy
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Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions About Transcending Martial Arts

Have questions about getting started? We have answers. Browse the most common questions below, or contact us directly for anything else.

Absolutely not. Our programs are designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced martial artists. Our instructors will meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace.

We offer programs for all ages, including juniors, kids, teens, and adults. Each program is specifically tailored to the age group's physical and developmental needs.

Comfortable athletic clothing such as a t-shirt and sweatpants or shorts is all you need. No shoes are required on the mats. We'll provide everything else you need for your first session.

We recommend attending at least two classes per week for steady progress. Consistency makes a big difference, and many of our most dedicated students train three or more times a week.

Safety is our top priority. Our certified instructors maintain a structured, supervised environment with age-appropriate techniques. We focus on controlled practice in a clean, well-maintained facility to minimize any risk of injury.

Your free trial includes a full class experience. You'll train alongside our students, meet our instructors, and get a feel for our academy. There's no obligation and no pressure. Just come ready to learn and have fun.