Paul Mitchell

Paul Mitchell, a 7th Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo**, is a revered martial arts leader and educator whose career spans more than four decades. Since beginning his Taekwondo training in 1978, Master Paul has dedicated his life to not only mastering the physical techniques of the martial art but also utilizing its principles as a transformative educational tool. His journey, characterized by a deep passion for Taekwondo, has made him one of the most respected figures in the martial arts community, with a mission to make a meaningful impact on his students' lives.

From the very beginning, Master Paul recognized that Taekwondo was more than just a sport. It embodied a philosophy that could help individuals—especially children—build strength, resilience, and character. As a result, he developed his teaching approach to incorporate not only the physical aspects of self-defense and fitness but also essential life skills such as discipline, respect, teamwork, and leadership. His vision has always been to prepare his students not just for success in martial arts, but for success in life.

Taekwondo, known for its high-impact, dynamic techniques, fosters agility, flexibility, and power in its practitioners. While many focus on its effectiveness as a martial art, Master Paul took this a step further, emphasizing Taekwondo's potential as a personal development and anti-bullying program. He believes that the values and principles inherent in Taekwondo are key to helping young people stand strong in the face of adversity, overcome challenges, and develop a sense of inner confidence that will carry them through life. This philosophy has been central to his teaching throughout his career.

In 2006, **Master Paul Mitchell** founded **United Taekwondo**, an organization that would allow him to pursue his vision of delivering a world-class martial arts education program. He sought to break free from the constraints of traditional federations, enabling him to focus more effectively on the holistic development of his students. United Taekwondo has since grown to become a respected institution, known not only for its high-caliber martial arts training but also for the emphasis it places on developing well-rounded, empowered individuals. 

Master Paul's commitment to the integration of life skills within his Taekwondo program has made his school stand out. His classes go beyond physical training, incorporating lessons on leadership, communication, problem-solving, and emotional resilience. His belief that instructors should be well-trained in every aspect of the discipline, including the psychological and emotional elements, ensures that the right message is conveyed to every student. His approach has transformed many lives and set a standard for martial arts instruction that is widely admired.

**Master Paul's** influence extends beyond the dojang (training hall) through his book, **“Building People, Not Fighters.”** The book encapsulates his philosophy that Taekwondo is not just about creating skilled fighters, but about developing well-rounded individuals who can thrive in all areas of life. Aimed primarily at children and young adults, the book covers important life stages before students enter school and high school, stressing the importance of early intervention and parental involvement. In the book, he encourages parents to be active participants in their children's development, much like they are during day-to-day Taekwondo training sessions.

The book focuses on helping students build resilience, foster friendships, and understand the value of collaboration and mutual support. Master Paul emphasizes the importance of cultivating qualities such as **compassion, generosity, positivity, humor, confidence**, and a strong **sense of belonging**—traits that he believes are essential not just for surviving, but for thriving in today’s world. His approach is rooted in the belief that every child deserves to grow up with a clear sense of self-worth, empowered to face life's challenges with courage and grace.

Throughout his career, Master Paul has actively contributed to improving communities through his work. He believes that martial arts, when taught correctly, can be a powerful force for good, shaping not only individuals but entire communities. His influence extends beyond the walls of his school, as he continues to be an advocate for programs that promote personal development, anti-bullying initiatives, and community leadership.

With over 40 years of experience, **Master Paul Mitchell** has earned his place as one of the leading figures in the global martial arts community. His legacy is defined not just by his technical mastery of Taekwondo, but by the countless lives he has transformed through his teaching. His work continues to inspire martial artists, educators, and parents alike, demonstrating that the true power of Taekwondo lies not just in its physical techniques but in its ability to build character, instill values, and improve lives. 

Master Paul’s commitment to **“Building People, Not Fighters”** remains at the heart of everything he does. Whether teaching a class, leading a seminar, or writing his next book, his mission is always the same: to create a positive, lasting impact on every student, helping them to grow into confident, compassionate, and successful individuals.