Business Details
26 Years
experience
Top-Rated Martial Arts Training in Markham
Authentic Tae Kwon DO has been Markham's premier martial arts training center for over 25 years, offering expert instruction in Taekwondo, Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and MMA. Our world-class instructors include former Olympians, national champions, and certified professionals with decades of combined experience. We specialize in creating a supportive environment that fosters discipline, confidence, and physical fitness for students of all ages. Our programs cater to children as young as 3, teens, and adults, with specialized classes for competitive athletes and self-defense training.With a proven track record of developing champions and empowering individuals through martial arts, we maintain strict adherence to traditional values while incorporating modern teaching methodologies. Our facility in Markham serves communities across the Greater Toronto Area, including Thornhill and Richmond Hill.
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Teen Martial Arts
Adult Kickboxing
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Taekwondo Competition
Summer Camp Programs
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer instruction from former Olympians and national champions with decades of competitive experience
- Our specialized programs cater to children with ADD/ADHD through structured martial arts training
- We maintain a family-friendly environment with classes for all ages and skill levels
- Our instructors hold advanced certifications from recognized martial arts organizations
- We combine traditional techniques with modern training methodologies for optimal results
What people say
Remarkable environment
Encouragement from all participants
Develop incredible discipline
Perfect for young learners
Help take back health
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Structured martial arts programs for children aged 3-11, focusing on character development, discipline, and physical fitness. Our curriculum builds confidence through achievable goals and positive reinforcement. Classes incorporate age-appropriate techniques that improve coordination, focus, and social skills while maintaining a fun and engaging environment.
Adult Kickboxing
High-energy kickboxing classes for adults combining traditional Taekwondo techniques with cardiovascular conditioning. Designed for all fitness levels, these sessions improve strength, endurance, and self-defense capabilities. The program emphasizes practical applications while providing a comprehensive full-body workout in a supportive group setting.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Comprehensive Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instruction focusing on ground fighting techniques and submission holds. Our curriculum develops strategic thinking and physical control through progressive skill development. Classes emphasize practical self-defense applications and competitive tournament preparation for students aged 16 and older.
Taekwondo Competition
Specialized training program for competitive athletes preparing for local, national, and international Taekwondo tournaments. The curriculum includes sparring techniques, poomsae forms, and competition strategy under the guidance of Olympic and world championship-level coaches. Regular testing opportunities help track progress toward black belt certification.
Summer Camp Programs
Week-long martial arts summer camps combining physical training with character-building activities. Designed for children aged 5-12, these programs teach fundamental Taekwondo techniques while promoting teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Daily sessions include skill drills, games, and special demonstrations that reinforce core values through practical application.
People
Master Akmal Farah
Owner/Operator
6th degree Kukkiwan blackbelt and former Canadian National Team Captain with 25+ years of competitive experience. Specializes in teaching children with ADD/ADHD through structured martial arts programs.
Master Dominique Bosshart
Olympian
Olympic bronze medalist and 6th degree Kukkiwan blackbelt with extensive international competition experience. Serves as Athlete Representative for Taekwondo Canada and contributes to national coaching development.
Dr. Daniel Gibbs
Master Instructor
Dentist and martial arts expert with 6th dan blackbelt certification. Combines medical knowledge with martial arts instruction to emphasize injury prevention and proper body mechanics in training.
Master Tom Oetlinger
Instructor
5th degree Kukkiwan blackbelt with over 30 years of Taekwondo experience. Certified NCCP Level I instructor specializing in foundational techniques and competition preparation.
Master Muhammad Kermalli
Instructor
4th degree Kukkiwan blackbelt dedicated to teaching traditional Taekwondo values. Focuses on developing students' character through structured belt progression and personalized attention.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We offer Taekwondo, Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and MMA instruction for students of all ages and skill levels.
Are there classes for beginners?
Yes, we have beginner programs for children starting at age 3 and adults with no prior experience required.
What should I wear for my first class?
Wear comfortable workout clothes. We provide uniforms for trial classes and offer free uniforms with our New Year Special.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, we provide discounted rates for multiple family members enrolled simultaneously. Contact us for specific details.
Are there competitive opportunities available?
We offer competition preparation programs with experienced coaches for students interested in tournament participation.
What safety measures do you have in place?
We maintain strict safety protocols with certified instructors, proper equipment requirements, and progressive skill development to minimize injury risk.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Elio Lo
Dec 01, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
It is a great experience for me because it helps me develop my taekwondo and leadership skills. Master Farah is a great teacher and role model. I would recommend this school to anyone.
It is a great experience for me because it helps me develop my taekwondo and leadership skills. Master Farah is a great teacher and role model. I would recommend this school to anyone.
Arokiasamy Leon
Nov 30, 2021
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I like Authentic Taekwondo because it has taught me to defend my self if I ever needed to. This dojang motivated me to become a black belt and to keep going. This is my favourite place to be at and anyone that comes will feel the same!
Lac Qureshi
Nov 20, 2021
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The #1 training center in Toronto! Authentic Taekwondo has taught me how to be a leader, made me tough, and made me stronger. The Masters and Instructors are incredible and are all super excited to guide kids to getting their black belt and even provincial competitions. I absolutely loved training in Taekwondo here and will continue for years to come.
Authentic Taekwondo not only offers Taekwondo training but also excellent kickboxing, yoga, and one-on-one training. If you are looking for a place to build confidence and strength and have loads of fun, Authentic is the place for you!
Authentic Taekwondo not only offers Taekwondo training but also excellent kickboxing, yoga, and one-on-one training. If you are looking for a place to build confidence and strength and have loads of fun, Authentic is the place for you!
Daniel Lee
Nov 18, 2021
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As someone who has made it through all the different belts up to black belt, I can tell you that this is a great place to learn Taekwondo, as the masters and leaders are responsive and are very nice to all students. They are also effective at doing their job, along with the junior leaders, which I am one of. Overall, if anyone wants to learn Taekwondo, I would most certainly recommend Authentic Taekwondo.
Michael Hum
Oct 27, 2021
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Our kids have been attending Authentic TKD for a few years now and they love it! Master Farah and his team are fantastic and he has a real gift in teaching children and building their confidence and self esteem!
Mandana M.
Sep 20, 2021
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A little over 2 months I have met Master Farah for private lessons in kickboxing. Since that day, Ive been training with him twice a week and it has been incredible!!!! Very skilled in his profession with a great demeanour. The adequate amount of toughness makes the program both fun and challenging to perform. Thus, he pushes you beyond what you believed were your limits but also understanding your capabilities. He goes above and beyond making sure you achieve your goals, making the program tailored to your expectations. His accurate feedback, honesty and positive encouragement have helped improve
