A martial arts class with children and an instructor practicing in a mirrored room. The children are wearing white uniforms with colored belts, and the instructor is demonstrating a stance. A reflection is visible in the mirror.

tiger belt

Tiger Belt Journey:

Building Life Skills Through Martial Arts

At Martial Arts Grand Traverse, our Tiger program is specially designed for younger students. Each belt rank introduces kids to valuable life skills like focus, respect, confidence, and discipline, all while having fun and staying active.

Through a cast of Nine engaging animal characters, your child will not only learn the basics of Songahm Taekwondo, but also grow socially and emotionally—one exciting belt at a time!

  • Line illustration of a cartoon turtle named Ara

    Tiger Belt 1 – Ara the Turtle

    Theme: Building Self-Discipline
    Favorite Move: Knife Hand Strike


    Ara used to be shy and quiet, hiding in his shell. Since joining Tiger class, he’s made new friends and learned to move with calm confidence. Like Ara, new students begin their journey learning that focus and patience are the roots of self-discipline.

  • Line illustration of a cartoon tiger named Baeoh

    Tiger Belt 2 – Baeoh the Tiger

    Theme: Boosting Social Skills
    Favorite Move: Side Kick


    Baeoh is silly, lovable, and everyone’s friend —but sometimes he doubts himself. As students grow in confidence, they learn how to build friendships and work with others through partner drills and shared practice, helping even the shyest kids thrive.

  • Line illustration of a cartoon cheetah named Cheeri

    Tiger Belt 3 – Cheeri the Cheetah

    Theme: Encouraging Physical Activity
    Favorite Move: Round Kick


    Cheeri is a determined student and a straight-A achiever who always gives her best effort. This rank celebrates kids who rise to the challenge of staying active and strong, replacing screen time with movement, energy, and healthy habits.

  • Line illustration of a cartoon lion named Raon

    Tiger Belt 4 – Raon the Lion

    Theme: Learning Goal-Setting
    Favorite Move: Reverse Punch


    Raon is athletic and brave —but sometimes jumps before thinking. At this level, kids learn how to set and achieve personal goals, reinforcing that progress comes from both effort and mindfulness.

  • Line illustration of a cartoon eagle named Suri

    Tiger Belt 5 – Suri the Eagle

    Theme: Growing Self-Esteem
    Favorite Move: Jump Front Kick


    Suri comes from a big, bold family —but he's smaller and sometimes tries to prove himself too fast. This stage helps students gain real confidence through achievement, showing that every child can soar with the right mindset.

  • Line illustration of a cartoon phoenix bird with flames named Choa

    Tiger Belt 6 – Choa the Phoenix

    Theme: Building Independence
    Favorite Move: Double Knife Hand Block


    Choa is beautiful and used to having others do things for her —but now, she’s discovering the joy of doing things on her own. This belt emphasizes responsibility and independence, reminding kids that effort leads to empowerment.

  • Line illustration of a cartoon dragon named Mir

    Tiger Belt 7 – Mir the Dragon

    Theme: Practicing Self-Control
    Favorite Move: Spinning Hook Kick


    Mir is smart and strong, but still working on coordination and control. Students at this level learn how to manage their strength, emotions, and reactions —building the foundation for calm, confident decision-making.

  • Line illustration of a cartoon cobra snake named Narsha

    Tiger Belt 8 – Narsha the Cobra

    Theme: Improving Listening Skills
    Favorite Move: Tail Strike


    Narsha may not have arms or legs, but she’s one of the best Tigers in class! Her success shows that great martial artists are great listeners. This stage reinforces focus and listening, essential tools for learning and respect.

  • Line illustration of a cartoon panther named Baron

    Tiger Belt 9 – Baron the Panther

    Theme: Developing Leadership
    Favorite Move: Palm Strike


    Baron is the highest-ranking Tiger. He’s a natural leader —he just doesn’t know it yet. Students here begin to mentor others, learning that true leadership comes from kindness, humility, and helpfulness.

“I promise to be a good person, with knowledge in my mind, honesty in my heart, strength in my body, to make good friends, and if I continue to do this, I will become a black belt, Sir/Ma’am!”

— Tiger Oath