Taekwondo for ages 4 and up in Gettysburg. Structure, discipline and confidence, one class at a time.
5.0 on Google from 125+ families
NEXTStep Martial Arts offers kids Taekwondo classes in Gettysburg, PA for ages 4 through adult. Founded by Master Jay So, a 5th Dan Black Belt with over 20 years of teaching experience, our programs build confidence, discipline, and character using the S.E.K.L. method. While we teach Taekwondo specifically, many families searching for kids karate near Gettysburg find everything they're looking for here. Rated 5.0 stars by 125+ families — we're Gettysburg's most trusted martial arts school.
Founder and head instructor, 5th Dan black belt
Over 20 years teaching Taekwondo. Meet Master Jay and see his teaching style during your child's free intro class.
More about Master Jay
Choose a class for you or your child. We’ll confirm the time with you.
No contracts. No pressure. Just a free intro class.
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Every child is different. That's why we offer age-specific kids Taekwondo programs in Gettysburg designed to meet them exactly where they are.
A playful introduction to martial arts that builds coordination, listening skills, and social confidence through movement and games.
See Tiny Tigers
Building discipline, focus, and leadership through progressive belt training. Our most popular program for school-age students.
See Junior Warriors
Advanced training for teens and adults. Build strength, self-defense skills, and mental resilience through authentic Taekwondo.
See Teen & Adult“She looks forward to every class, and it makes me so happy to see her thriving.”
Before you visit
See the dojang, Master Jay teaching, and students practicing. A short, captioned look at NEXTStep in Gettysburg.
Silent video with captions. Read the first-visit guide →
Every student has a moment where something clicks — where "I can't" turns into "Yes I can." It might be the first board break. The first time they lead the class count. The first hard conversation they don't shrink from. That's the moment every class is built toward.
Three words we hear from students on and off the mat — at school, at work, and on the biggest stages of their lives.
Three words we hear from students on and off the mat — at school, at work, and on the biggest stages of their lives.
Structure, Emotion, Knowledge, Legacy. The four pillars that guide every class, and the four posters on our dojang wall.
Using discipline to obey what is right and follow the rules.
Clear belt progression and visible milestones help your child know what comes next.
Explore the focus toolkit
Having a positive attitude and a passion for life.
Practical tools for handling anger, frustration, and overwhelm.
Read the confidence checklist
Using what we learn in class and how we apply it to all areas of our life.
20+ years of teaching experience behind every technique and life lesson.
See what class is like
Being a leader and role model for others to follow.
Values and discipline that carry beyond the mat into school and life.
Explore the parent guide
“Yesterday I spoke at a national oncology conference in front of an audience of roughly 100 people. Something I honestly thought I couldn't do before starting taekwondo. I was slightly nervous, but took the time to practice and prepare. I want to thank everyone at NextStep who has played a part in building my self confidence! Yes I can!”
“Next Step has been such a blessing for our family. Since my daughter started last October, I've seen her confidence grow in ways I never imagined. She looks forward to every class, and it makes me so happy to see her thriving in such a positive environment.”
“My kids adore the dynamic activities, acquiring new skills, and forging wonderful friendships. Despite passing numerous options closer to home, we happily drive over 30 minutes because there’s simply no other place we’d consider for our kids.”
Verified parent, Nov 2024
“They put a huge emphasis on life skills and core values in life. Teaching kids discipline, honor, respect, and other important values. This is a 10/10 taekwondo studio and would highly recommend to anyone.”
Verified parent, Mar 2024
“My child and I have had a great experience with Next Step! Everyone is very kind and helpful. They genuinely care about each student and create a positive and welcoming environment!”
Verified parent, Oct 2025
We welcome students as young as 4. Our Tiny Tigers program (ages 4–6) uses play-based movement and age-appropriate martial arts fundamentals to build coordination, listening skills, and early confidence. While we teach Taekwondo specifically, many families searching for karate near Gettysburg find that our programs offer everything they’re looking for. Rated 5.0 stars by 125+ families.
We specialize in kids who are nervous, shy, or unsure. Our instructors are trained to meet every child where they are — no forced participation, no pressure. Many shy kids surprise their parents in those first few classes.
We don’t train fighters — we train leaders. There’s zero full-contact sparring in our kids’ programs. Every technique is taught with control, respect, and purpose. Our focus is building confidence, not aggression.
Our structured, fast-paced classes are designed to channel energy productively. Short drills, clear goals, and movement-based learning help kids with focus challenges thrive. Many parents notice positive changes as their child settles into a routine.
Over two decades of teaching excellence. A proprietary S.E.K.L. philosophy. Certified educators, not just black belts. A 5.0-star Google rating from 125+ families. And a head instructor who knows your child by name.
Our free intro class lets you experience everything NEXTStep has to offer with zero risk. No payment, no contracts — just show up and see if it’s the right fit.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — and we’d urge you to be cautious of any school that gives one. The path is deeply personal. It’s not about getting to Black Belt; it’s about becoming a better version of yourself along the way. As you train, overcome obstacles, and build friendships, you become stronger inside and out.
A free intro class where your child trains alongside real students — not a watered-down demo. You’ll meet Master Jay, see our teaching style, and know right away if NEXTStep is the right fit. No payment required, no strings attached.