Group of martial arts students practicing Taekwondo at a dojo, with a smiling woman in a martial arts uniform in the foreground.

8894 Fort Smallwood Rd #14, Pasadena, MD 21122

+1 410-317-5376

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-----★★★★★/★★★★★----- 5 Stars On Google
--96% Recommended-- 255 Facebook Reviews

ITF TAEKWONDO

  • From the moment you step through the doors of Golden Defense Dragon Taekwondo, you'll feel a palpable sense of dedication, discipline, and community. This isn't just a martial arts school; it's a place where students of all ages and skill levels are empowered to grow, both physically and mentally.

    The instructors at Golden Defense Dragon are truly exceptional. They combine deep expertise in Taekwondo with a genuine passion for teaching. Their guidance is not only clear and precise, but also incredibly encouraging, ensuring that every student feels supported and challenged to reach their full potential. They emphasize respect, perseverance, and self-control, instilling invaluable life lessons that extend far beyond the dojang.

    My experience, and what I've observed in others, is that Golden Defense Dragon fosters an incredibly positive and inclusive atmosphere. Whether you're a beginner taking your first steps or an advanced practitioner honing your skills, you'll find a welcoming environment where camaraderie thrives. The focus is always on personal improvement and mutual support.

    Beyond the impressive physical training – which builds strength, flexibility, and coordination – the mental benefits are profound. Ms Maria helps students develop remarkable focus, discipline, and confidence. Parents will particularly appreciate how the lessons learned here translate into improved behavior, better concentration in school, and a stronger sense of self-esteem in their children.

    If you're looking for a top-tier Taekwondo experience that prioritizes holistic development, Golden Defense Dragon Taekwondo is without a doubt the place to be. It's more than just learning kicks and punches; it's about building character, resilience, and a lifelong love for martial arts. Highly, highly recommended!

    Fräulein J Aus F 

Ashley: "This is the perfect place if you're looking for a strict/ fun place to learn Ti Kwon Do. The staff and instructors are the best and are great with kids. We absolutely love them. They have a variety of classes and times. They clean between classes, only allowing a limited number of people inside the building and have hand sanitizer all around the school and making everyone use it on their way in and out of classes. I would highly recommend GDD if you are looking for a place to learn and workout at."

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Ashley: "This is the perfect place if you're looking for a strict/ fun place to learn Ti Kwon Do. The staff and instructors are the best and are great with kids. We absolutely love them. They have a variety of classes and times. They clean between classes, only allowing a limited number of people inside the building and have hand sanitizer all around the school and making everyone use it on their way in and out of classes. I would highly recommend GDD if you are looking for a place to learn and workout at." 〰️

A circular logo with a black background and gold and white accents. The outer ring contains the text "Goldend Dragon Defense" and "The Elite Training" separated by stars. The inner circle features a stylized gold and white dragon with black Chinese characters and the text "Est. 2014".

EXPERIENCE EXCELLENCE IN ITF TAEKWON-DO: INSPIRING GREATNESS IN YOUTH AND ADULTS.

Logo of the International Taekwon-Do Federation, featuring a globe, a clenched fist, and Korean characters surrounded by the federation's name.

Join Golden Dragon Defense in Pasadena, MD for a transformative journey in self-discovery through the art of TaekwonDo. Unleash your potential with world-class instructors. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned martial artist: kids, teens, and adults are welcome here at GDD!

#1 Martial Arts School in Pasadena Area | Female-Owned and Taught

Amanda: "We love Ms. Maria and all the staff and Golden Dragon Defense. Highly recommend to other families.",

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Gordon: "Excellent instruction and friendly environment. All of the instructors are well versed in the art and work with the students. Ms. Marie is very knowledgeable and is excellent with kids and young adults. We couldn't have picked a better place to take taekwondo.",

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Amanda: "We love Ms. Maria and all the staff and Golden Dragon Defense. Highly recommend to other families.", 〰️ Gordon: "Excellent instruction and friendly environment. All of the instructors are well versed in the art and work with the students. Ms. Marie is very knowledgeable and is excellent with kids and young adults. We couldn't have picked a better place to take taekwondo.", 〰️

GDD at THE BATTLE OF BALTIMORE

7 Students competed at The Battle Of Baltimore Open Tournament at the CCBC collage in Essex.

Our students, competing for the first time in an Open tournament, walked away with 11 trophies!

5 First Place

1 Second Place

5 Third Place

They competed in Traditional Patterns, Point Sparring, and Semi-Contact Continuous Sparring

Group of children and two adults at a martial arts competition medal ceremony, standing with trophies on a gymnasium floor, with a banner and boxes in the background.
Three judo athletes in white judogis with black belts smiling and wearing medals, standing in a gymnasium with a yellow dome ceiling.
A woman in a police uniform hugging two smiling children in a gymnasium. The girl on the left is wearing a pink shirt with strawberries, and the boy on the right is wearing a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles shirt.
A person in a martial arts uniform performs a jump kick during a martial arts demonstration in a gymnasium, with spectators and fellow martial artists watching.
Three martial artists in white and black uniforms with protective helmets and gloves, receiving medals at a martial arts competition.
Young boy in a white martial arts uniform with a blue belt performing a move on a matted competition area at a martial arts tournament, with spectators and other competitors in the background.
Young girl in a white martial arts uniform with a red belt, wearing medal around her neck, standing among other martial artists at a competition or event.
Two children in martial arts uniforms with blue protective gear, posing in a gymnasium, with a man and a woman in the background.
Group of children and adults celebrating at a martial arts competition, holding trophies, and high-fiving each other on a competition floor with a backdrop displaying multiple logos.
Martial arts event inside a gymnasium with a fighter in a white uniform sitting on a chair, wearing a helmet and gloves, while a woman in a blue uniform adjusts his foot.
Young martial artist in a white gi demonstrates a kick at a martial arts event in a gymnasium.
Two children in taekwondo uniforms talking with two adults in a gymnasium, with spectators in the background and banners hanging from the ceiling.
A woman sitting on the floor in a martial arts uniform, with patches on her sleeve, her hair in a braid, in a contemplative pose with her fingers near her mouth, in front of a curtain.
Two children in martial arts uniforms sitting on the floor in a gymnasium, eating food wrapped in foil, with water bottles beside them. The gym has banners hanging on the wall and people in the background, some standing and some sitting on bleachers.
Two martial artists competing in a taekwondo match, both wearing protective gear including helmets, gloves, and foot guards. The competitor in white has their back to the camera, while the other is facing forward. A referee stands nearby, and spectat
A young martial artist in a white uniform with a black belt, performing a martial arts stance at a competition in a gymnasium filled with spectators, banners, and flags on the wall.
A woman practicing taekwondo in a gym, performing a kick while others watch in the background.
Martial arts students, including boys and girls, sitting on the mat listening to their instructor during training in a gymnasium with banners hanging from the wall.
A woman practicing martial arts in a uniform, executing a high kick in an indoor gymnasium, with several people, a table, and banners in the background.
Group of young martial artists in uniforms holding trophies and medals, standing on a podium after a competition, with a backdrop displaying event logos.
Three children kneeling and leaning over a wooden railing, looking down at a gymnasium or sports court below.
Young martial artist in a white karate gi with patches, wearing blue protective gear including a helmet, gloves, and foot guards, standing on a training mat in a gymnasium, preparing for a match.
Group of children in martial arts uniforms sitting on the floor during a class or demonstration, with a boy in the center making a hand gesture.
A young girl in a white karate uniform with a red belt practicing a martial arts stance in a gymnasium during a martial arts event.
Martial arts competition with children in uniforms, some shaking hands, in an indoor arena with spectators watching.
A young martial artist practicing a kick in a gym during a martial arts event, with spectators and fellow practitioners watching.
Two martial artists sparring in taekwondo gear on a mat, with spectators and banners in the background.
A young girl in a white martial arts uniform with a red belt, standing with her hands clasped, appears to be in a martial arts class or competition.
Two boys dressed in martial arts uniforms sitting side by side, with one boy raising his right hand towards the camera and the other looking away, in a dojo or martial arts training environment.
A young martial artist in a white gi performing a high side kick at a martial arts event, with a crowd of spectators and other competitors watching.
A woman in a white martial arts uniform kneeling on the mat, talking to a seated woman in a navy jacket at a martial arts tournament in a gymnasium filled with people and spectators.
A young female martial artist in a white karate gi with a red belt is performing a high kick during a martial arts competition, with spectators and officials in the background at an indoor sports facility.
People seated on bleachers inside a gymnasium at a martial arts tournament, with several trophies and medals displayed.
A young girl in a white karate gi and blue belt performing a kick during a martial arts competition on a mat, with spectators and competitors watching in the background.
A group of martial artists, some wearing white uniforms with colored belts and helmets, standing and sitting in a gym, with some people watching in the background.
A young female martial artist in a white gi and blue protective gear being assisted by an older woman in a navy tracksuit inside a gym with a high ceiling. Several people are in the background.
A female martial artist in a white gi with a black belt practicing a pose on a gray mat in an indoor gym, with people and booths in the background.
Group of martial artists wearing karate uniforms and black belts, standing together indoors.
Group of nine young martial artists and a female coach posing in a gym, wearing doboks with various colored belts, after a tournament.

Jason: "My daughter has been attending Golden Dragon for over a year now, and I can’t speak highly enough about the experience! She absolutely loves it. Not only has she learned valuable self-defense skills, but she’s also grown tremendously in discipline and character. I would definitely recommend Golden Dragon to anyone considering martial arts training for their child.",

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Alexx: "One of the best taekwondo Dojos around Miss Maria is the best instructor Amazing with kids and very good at teaching all age groups and levels her black belts also helping her out with teaching are amazing also you won't regret choosing Golden Dragon Defense",

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Jason: "My daughter has been attending Golden Dragon for over a year now, and I can’t speak highly enough about the experience! She absolutely loves it. Not only has she learned valuable self-defense skills, but she’s also grown tremendously in discipline and character. I would definitely recommend Golden Dragon to anyone considering martial arts training for their child.", 〰️ Alexx: "One of the best taekwondo Dojos around Miss Maria is the best instructor Amazing with kids and very good at teaching all age groups and levels her black belts also helping her out with teaching are amazing also you won't regret choosing Golden Dragon Defense", 〰️

Check out our Instructors and Jr. Instructors!

Instructors

Mark: "After taking a long break from TKD, I decided to start up again and introduce my son to it as well and we both love the school and Ms Maria. I recommend it to anyone looking to get in shape or have their kids learn about discipline and self control.",

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Devin: "Both of my kids have attended for about half a year now. The instructor, Ms. Maria , is exceptional with her students. She is an excellent guide to my children's personal journeys to success, and I would strongly recommend this studio to anyone.",

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Mark: "After taking a long break from TKD, I decided to start up again and introduce my son to it as well and we both love the school and Ms Maria. I recommend it to anyone looking to get in shape or have their kids learn about discipline and self control.", 〰️ Devin: "Both of my kids have attended for about half a year now. The instructor, Ms. Maria , is exceptional with her students. She is an excellent guide to my children's personal journeys to success, and I would strongly recommend this studio to anyone.", 〰️

Logo of the World Tae Kwon Do Federation with a blue globe, yellow fist, and colorful stripes, alongside text that reads 'ITF International Taekwon-Do Federation.'

WE’RE AN ITF CERTIFIED SCHOOL. TRADITIONAL TECHNIQUES; WORLD-CLASS INSTRUCTION.

  • Golden Dragon Defense is an ITF Certified School. ITF Taekwon-Do is a Martial Art with four distinct facets, as a sport, a martial art, a tool for social development and as a way of life. Competition highlights the Sport facet of ITF Taekwon-Do.

    The International Taekwon-Do Federation (ITF) aims to promote and support Taekwon-Do according to the principles of its Founder, General Choi Hong-hi. It was founded in 1966 and has member associations in over 120 countries worldwide.

  • Enrolling in an ITF Certified school means embracing an authentic martial arts style that is true to its roots. Our curriculum adheres to the original teachings of Taekwon-Do, as outlined in an Encyclopedia, written by founder General Choi Hong-hi.

    ITF allows hand strikes, kicks, takedowns, blocks, and more. Students practice patterns, self defense, board breaking, and sparring.

    ITF also opens the door for competitions, both nationally and internationally, where students can choose to take their martial arts journey to the next level!

  • There are five tenets defined in the International Taekwondo Federation (ITF).

    Courtesy ( 예의 ye-ui )

    Showing courtesy to all, respecting others, having manners as well as maintaining the appropriate etiquette at all times, both within and outside the dojang (도장) (designated training area).

    Integrity ( 염치 yeom-chi )

    Although it may be similar, this form of integrity takes on a more wider role then defined in the common dictionary. In Taekwon-Do, integrity means not only to determine what is right or wrong but also having the conscience to feel guilt if one has done wrong and to have the integrity stand up for what is right.

    Perseverance ( 인내 in-nae )

    One will persevere time and time again until they have achieved a result which is adequate towards what one was trying to achieve.

    Self-control ( 극기 geuk-gi )

    This means to not only have control over one's physical acts, but also their mental thoughts and actions.

    Indomitable Spirit ( 백절불굴 baekjul-boolgool )

    To have indomitable spirit means to have the courage to stand up for what you believe in, no matter what odds you are up against, and to always give 100% effort in whatever you do.

  • ITF Certified schools are eligible to enroll in plenty of competitions and tournaments of various scales throughout the year. Competitions allow students to evaluate and increase their abilities, set goals to achieve a higher level of training and accomplishment and to achieve success at local, regional, national and international level.

    Golden Dragon Defense offers an Annual Dragon’s Eye Tournament where students from schools throughout the East Coast travel to compete in our hometown to compete each year!

    Official Championships organised by the ITF are the ITF World Championships and ITF World Cups. However, other approved championships take place across the world such as Continental Championships and approved ITF Open Championships. Learn more here.

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Carly: "We love GDD. Our kids have been going here almost 4 years. Instructors are great, everything is very clean. All patrons are very friendly and we’ve made awesome friendships with other families too! Highly recommend!",

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Brendan: "Ms. Maria is the best instructor in the area, and her team is incredible in building confidence in her students and ensuring they stay motivated and engaged.",

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Carly: "We love GDD. Our kids have been going here almost 4 years. Instructors are great, everything is very clean. All patrons are very friendly and we’ve made awesome friendships with other families too! Highly recommend!", 〰️ Brendan: "Ms. Maria is the best instructor in the area, and her team is incredible in building confidence in her students and ensuring they stay motivated and engaged.", 〰️

A YOUTH-CENTRIC TAEKWON-DO PROGRAM THAT PROMOTES HEALTH, RESPECT, AND CONFIDENCE? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED.

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Elevate Your Child’s Journey to Excellence: Join Youth Taekwon-Do in Pasadena, Maryland today!

Our youth program is designed to inspire and instill the values of physical fitness, confidence, self-control, and self-defense mastery in your child or teen. Youth can expect to experience the dynamic world of Martial Arts through ITF Taekwon-Do, where the thrill of fast-paced martial arts meets character development and discipline to cultivate your child's behavior and manners.

Jessica: "Ms Maria is great. Classes/School is very good. Excellent instructors and great for teaching discipline and give kids opportunities to lead in class and small groups. Sparring part of week is expected and formal classes the other part of week. Good instructions.",

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Dan: "Absolutely amazing place. The professionalism and dedication of the instructors is awesome. The facility is clean and well cared for. What more can you ask for?",

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Jessica: "Ms Maria is great. Classes/School is very good. Excellent instructors and great for teaching discipline and give kids opportunities to lead in class and small groups. Sparring part of week is expected and formal classes the other part of week. Good instructions.", 〰️ Dan: "Absolutely amazing place. The professionalism and dedication of the instructors is awesome. The facility is clean and well cared for. What more can you ask for?", 〰️

Discover the Power of Taekwon-Do for Adults: Achieve Balance, Strength, and Vitality in Your Life!

Join us today and experience the transformational benefits of Taekwon-Do! Embrace balance, boost your activity level, and unlock your full potential as a confident, healthier, and more empowered adult. Learn from the best Martial Arts instructors in Pasadena who are dedicated to providing a stable, family-friendly environment where you can excel in your personal goals and find a supportive community. Whether your plan is to compete, lose weight, meet new like-minded people, or increase your day-to-day life activity, we will help you get there faster than you ever thought possible, all while having fun!

ADULTS: UNLOCK YOUR INNER DRAGON WARRIOR! JOIN OUR ADULT MARTIAL ARTS PROGRAM TODAY.

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Gregg: "Great studio to learn TKD, for kids (and adults) to learn self defense, gain confidence, and understand responsibility. My daughter loves learning TKD and the instructors. They handle the pandemic very well and safely, to allow students to continue learning in varying capacities. Definitely recommend for kids of all ages.",

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Angelina: "The instructors are very helpful and encouraging. The families are friendly and accepting. We enjoy the cross training that's offered. Several different martial arts area offered. It's clean and a real fun place.",

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Gregg: "Great studio to learn TKD, for kids (and adults) to learn self defense, gain confidence, and understand responsibility. My daughter loves learning TKD and the instructors. They handle the pandemic very well and safely, to allow students to continue learning in varying capacities. Definitely recommend for kids of all ages.", 〰️ Angelina: "The instructors are very helpful and encouraging. The families are friendly and accepting. We enjoy the cross training that's offered. Several different martial arts area offered. It's clean and a real fun place.", 〰️

Pamela: "Amazing Tae Kwan Do school!!!!! My son Has always been unsure of himselfand after a short time is more confident and happy. The exercise is also great!!!",

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De'Vante: "All I can say is wow! The Golden Dragon Defense is a great place to learn Tae Kwon Do. The instructor here, Ms. Maria is very strict and teaches discipline, and the teaching methods work! This is an amazing place, it is wonderful. It has built my confidence tremendously. ",

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Pamela: "Amazing Tae Kwan Do school!!!!! My son Has always been unsure of himselfand after a short time is more confident and happy. The exercise is also great!!!", 〰️ De'Vante: "All I can say is wow! The Golden Dragon Defense is a great place to learn Tae Kwon Do. The instructor here, Ms. Maria is very strict and teaches discipline, and the teaching methods work! This is an amazing place, it is wonderful. It has built my confidence tremendously. ", 〰️

GDD ON THE WEB

Find Golden Dragon Defense online!

CLASSES START TODAY! Kicking off the new year by learning from and training with world champion Ms. Honey Ospina is an awesome way to start off the year. We can’t wait to see our GDD Warriors come back to classes and have a great time learning
Training days at GDD! We are so glad to welcome Ms. Honey Ospina to Golden Dragon Defense. Ms. Honey is a world champion in Taekwon-Do, and brings a lot of expertise and talent to share with our students! Each class has been energetic, fun, and chal

Naomi: "Very friendly and cares about all students. Also teaches good morals. Goe above and beyond!"

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Marjorie: "My son loves it. Mrs. Maria is great with the kids.",

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Geneva: "I love golden dragon defense. I would recommend it to anyone.",

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Justa: "Fantastic school with excellent instructors. Everyone is friendly and knowledgeable.",

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Naomi: "Very friendly and cares about all students. Also teaches good morals. Goe above and beyond!" 〰️ Marjorie: "My son loves it. Mrs. Maria is great with the kids.", 〰️ Geneva: "I love golden dragon defense. I would recommend it to anyone.", 〰️ Justa: "Fantastic school with excellent instructors. Everyone is friendly and knowledgeable.", 〰️

SCHEDULE A VISIT

Come by anytime 5PM-7PM on Weekdays! We also offer a Free Trial for new students – for children, teens, and adults! Click here to schedule Your Free Trial. We’re confident you will love our school! View our Class Schedule to see which times are best for you.

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PASADENA, MARYLAND

8894 Ft. Smallwood Road, Suite 14

Pasadena, MD 21122

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THERE ARE NOT MANY INSTRUCTORS LIKE MARIA PATALINGHUG. MY 3 CHILDREN EARNED THEIR BLACK BELTS WITH HER AS A MENTOR AND INSTRUCTOR. SHE IS KNOWLEDGEABLE, STRONG, AND UNIQUE IN HER TEACHING METHODS. HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER AND GOLDEN DRAGON DEFENSE!

-Julia S.