Business Details
25 Years
experience
Tae Kwon Do Classes in Des Moines, IA
Two Rivers Martial Arts was founded in 2001 by a group of dedicated black belts who sought to preserve traditional Tae Kwon Do while innovating through a non-traditional organizational structure. Our school operates under a Board of Directors rather than a single headmaster, reflecting our commitment to collective leadership and community-driven growth. We emphasize the five tenets of Tae Kwon DoCourtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spiritwhile offering accessible, affordable training across 12 Central Iowa locations. Our volunteer-led model ensures that all profits reinvest directly into student development and community outreach programs.With over two decades of experience, we have cultivated a unique environment where students of all ages learn self-defense, physical discipline, and lifelong values. Our instructors, many of whom hold 5th to 8th Dan black belt rankings, bring decades of expertise from the Eric Heintz Black Belt Academy lineage. We maintain strong ties to local charities like Amanda the Panda, continuing a legacy of service that began with our founders' board-breaking marathons raising over $60,000 for children's grief support. This combination of tradition, accessibility, and community focus defines our approach to martial arts education.
Services
Tae Kwon Do
Martial Spirit
Kobudo
Self Defense
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- Our volunteer instructors include 8th Dan Grandmasters with direct lineage from Cedar Rapids' Jung's Tae Kwon Do
- We maintain traditional martial arts values while operating under a unique, community-driven non-profit model
- 12 convenient Central Iowa locations with flexible class schedules for all age groups
- Proven track record of community service through partnerships with organizations like Amanda the Panda
- Affordable rates at two-thirds the cost of typical for-profit martial arts schools
What people say
Increased confidence
Great teachers
Community involvement
Lifelong values
Affordable rates
Services
Tae Kwon Do
Our Tae Kwon Do program teaches traditional Korean martial arts techniques with a modern, accessible approach. Students develop physical fitness, self-defense skills, and character through structured belt progression. Classes emphasize the five tenets of Tae Kwon Do while maintaining technical rigor and safety standards.
Martial Spirit
This formal martial arts curriculum focuses on advanced techniques and philosophical development. Students practice traditional forms, sparring, and self-defense applications while deepening their understanding of martial arts principles. The class welcomes participants at any experience level with flexible entry points.
Kobudo
Our Kobudo program preserves Okinawan weapon traditions including nunchaku, sai, and bo staff techniques. Instructors teach both historical context and practical applications while maintaining safety standards. This ancient art complements empty-hand training by developing coordination and discipline.
Self Defense
The Self Defense curriculum teaches practical techniques for real-world situations. Developed by Master Deaton, this program emphasizes awareness, de-escalation, and effective countermeasures. Students practice scenario-based drills while maintaining martial arts principles of control and responsibility.
Community Outreach
Our outreach initiatives connect martial arts training with community service. Students participate in charity events, youth mentorship, and disaster relief efforts. This program extends the five tenets of Tae Kwon Do into civic responsibility while offering scholarship opportunities for underserved populations.
People
Grandmaster Brett McBroom
8th Dan Instructor
Began training with Master Heintz in the early 1980s and earned 8th Dan in 2016. Leads Winterset branch and maintains traditional techniques while supporting modern accessibility.
Grandmaster Steve Gonzalez
8th Dan Instructor
Started training in the mid-1980s under Master Heintz. Earned 8th Dan recognition in 2016. Focuses on preserving martial arts heritage while adapting to contemporary student needs.
Grandmaster Brad Deaton
8th Dan Instructor
1986 Heintz student who developed the Self Defense curriculum. Earned 8th Dan in 2016. Combines technical expertise with practical self-protection applications.
Master Bryan Siever
7th Dan Instructor
Trained since 1993 under Master Heintz, achieving 7th Dan in 2023. Teaches at the Des Moines Hub location while maintaining board of directors responsibilities.
Grandmaster Anita Williams
8th Dan Instructor
Began training in 1987 and became the first female 8th Dan in the lineage in 2023. Balances technical mastery with community engagement initiatives.
Questions
What Tae Kwon Do styles do you teach?
We teach traditional non-contact sparring style Tae Kwon Do with curriculum lineage from Cedar Rapids' Jung's Tae Kwon Do, emphasizing the five core tenets.
Are there family discount options available?
Our non-profit model already offers rates at two-thirds typical for-profit schools, with additional scholarship opportunities through community outreach programs.
How do belt promotions work?
Promotions occur through structured testing led by senior instructors, with preparation guidance from experienced black belts during regular classes.
Can I try a class before committing?
Yes, all classes offer no-obligation trial sessions with experienced instructors guiding your first experience in a supportive environment.
What community involvement opportunities exist?
Students participate in charity board breaks, youth mentorship, and disaster relief efforts that extend martial arts values into civic responsibility.
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