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Welcome to Legacy Taekwondo Academy
Family-Owned • Latina-Operated • Community-Driven
Located in the heart of Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, Legacy Taekwondo Academy is more than a martial arts school — it’s a family legacy built on strength, culture, and community. As a proud Latina-operated academy, we are committed to empowering students of all ages through the art of Taekwondo and high-energy fitness.
Our Mission
At Legacy Taekwondo Academy, our mission is to empower individuals and families through the discipline of Taekwondo and the energy of fitness — all within a space that celebrates culture, community, and resilience.
As a family-owned, Latina-operated academy rooted in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, we are committed to nurturing strength, confidence, and respect in every student. Our team of passionate instructors brings decades of experience and heart to every class:
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Diana Romero, Head Instructor, raised in Pilsen and practicing for over 10 years, leads with deep community connection and martial arts expertise.
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Hilda Bran, Assistant Instructor, began her journey at 60 and now teaches CPS after-school programs, inspiring students with her dedication and warmth.
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Delta Romero, Assistant Instructor, began training at just 3½ years old and has competed in tournaments across Illinois and Puerto Rico, earning numerous 1st and 2nd place trophies. His dedication and competitive spirit make him a role model for younger students.
We offer Taekwondo for all ages, family classes, after-school programs, and HIIT Cardio Kickboxing for all fitness levels — creating a space where everyone can grow stronger together.
We don’t just teach martial arts — we build leaders, uplift families, and honor our heritage.
🥋 1. Respect the Dojang and Your Instructors
Taekwondo is rooted in respect. Always bow when entering the training area and show appreciation for your instructors and fellow students.
🧠 2. Learn the Terminology
Familiarize yourself with basic Korean terms used in class (e.g., charyeot for attention, kyungnae for bow). It helps you follow instructions and understand the culture.
🦵 3. Focus on Form Before Power
Proper technique is more important than strength. Mastering stances, blocks, and kicks with correct form builds a solid base for future progress.
🧘 4. Build Flexibility and Balance
Stretch regularly to improve flexibility, which is key for high kicks and injury prevention. Balance drills also enhance control and coordination.
🕰️ 5. Be Consistent
Progress comes with regular practice. Attend classes consistently and try to train a little outside of class to reinforce what you’ve learned.
🥗 6. Fuel Your Body
Stay hydrated and eat nutritious foods to support your training. Recovery is just as important as effort.
🧤 7. Practice Safety
Wear proper gear, warm up before training, and listen to your body. Safety ensures long-term growth and enjoyment.
📚 8. Study the Belt System
Understand the journey ahead — each belt represents a new challenge and achievement. Set goals and celebrate milestones.
💬 9. Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask your instructors for clarification or help. They’re there to guide you and support your growth.
❤️ 10. Enjoy the Journey
Taekwondo is not just about kicks and punches — it’s about personal development, discipline, and community. Embrace every step of the journey.
10 ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
Meet the Team
Head Instructor
Diana Romero
A Pilsen Native, Diana has been practicing Taekwondo for over 10 years. She is a 4th Dan and began her teaching in 2016 at Pilsen Academy through America Scores Chicago Afterschool Program. In 2018, Diana opened Legacy Taekwondo in Pilsen to be a positive resource in the neighborhood she came from. Legacy Taekwondo has continued its partnership with America Scores Chicago and has expanded its Afterschool Program to Hamline in Back of the Yards and Orozco in Pilsen.
Assistant Instructor
Delta Romero
Delta has been training since he was 3 1/2 years old, he is now 18 years old and is currently a 1st Dan. He has competed a taken home numerous 1st Place Trophies throughout the years competing statewide. In May of 2024, he competed in the Caribbean Open in Bayamon, Puerto Rico where he brought home a 2nd Place for Legacy Taekwondo.
Delta assists during class with the smaller kids to help them develop their sparring skills as well as assisting with stances and technique.
Assistant Instructor
Ms. Hilda Bran (Yia Yia)
Ms. Hilda began her Taekwondo Journey when she was 60 years young, and has been practicing for over 10 years. Ms. Hilda is a 2nd Dan now and has been teaching in the afterschool Programs since 2021. Yia Yia as she is known by all teaches children starting from K to 6th grade. Yia Yia taught the afterschool Program at Catalyst Maria in West Lawn and is currently at Hamline and Orozco as the Main Taekwondo Afterschool Program Instrcutor.