About Us

Who We Are

About Lone Star Institute of Taekwondo in Arlington, TX

Lone Star Institute of Taekwondo is a family focused martial arts school located in Pantego, TX, proudly serving students in Arlington, TX and across the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex. For more than 15 years, families have trusted LSIT to help children, teens, and adults build confidence, discipline, and respect through traditional Taekwondo training.

Led by Master David Kestenbaum, our instruction goes beyond physical technique. Students train in a safe, structured environment that emphasizes focus, emotional control, humility, and personal responsibility at every age and experience level.

Our Taekwondo programs combine clear structure, consistent routines, and positive reinforcement. Students learn real, age-appropriate self-defense while developing self-control and respect that carry beyond the mat into daily life.

Instructional Heritage

Our Lineage and History

Lone Star Institute of Taekwondo follows a direct instructional lineage rooted in traditional Korean Taekwondo. The school is led by Master David Kestenbaum, founder and head instructor, whose training reflects decades of study under respected Taekwondo masters.

Master Kestenbaum trained under Grandmaster Roy D. Kurban, a prominent figure in Texas Taekwondo and long-time leader in competitive and traditional instruction. Grandmaster Kurban studied extensively under Grandmaster Won Chik Park, one of the most influential Taekwondo instructors in North Texas.

Grandmaster Won Chik Park began his Taekwondo training in Korea at Pusan Jidokwan under Grandmaster Hyong Chong Park, a senior master within the Jidokwan tradition. That foundation continues through each generation of instruction at LSIT, shaping classes that prioritize strong fundamentals, clear standards, and disciplined training.

Master David Kestenbaum headshot

Owner / Head Instructor

Master David Kestenbaum

7th Degree Black Belt

United States Taekwondo Grandmasters Society • Kukkiwon Certified

Master David Kestenbaum has trained in Taekwondo since age 5 and brings more than 20 years of experience to the mat. Recognized at age 24 as one of the youngest Taekwondo Masters in the world, he has trained on two continents and studied under Grandmasters Won Chik Park, Roy D. Kurban, and Martin Hall. His background blends traditional instruction with high-level competitive experience.

Ms. Jenny Yu headshot

Program Director / Head Instructor

Master Jenny Yu

5th Degree Black Belt

Ms. Yu began training in 1999 under Grandmaster Roy Kurban and has been an integral part of Lone Star Institute of Taekwondo since 2011. She leads programs at multiple recreation centers and plays a key role in student development and instructor training. She holds a degree in mathematics from the University of Texas at Arlington.

Master Bradford Woods headshot

Program Director / Head Instructor

Master Bradford Woods

5th Degree Black Belt

Master Woods began Taekwondo as a parent and quickly committed to training and competition. He leads the Elzie Odom Recreation Center program and has ranked among the top competitors in the Traditional Karate League. He is known for his leadership, consistency, and commitment to student growth.

Mr. Joseph Louis headshot

Assistant Instructor

Master Joseph Louis

5th Degree Black Belt

Mr. Louis began training in 1999 and joined Lone Star Institute of Taekwondo as an instructor in 2011. He teaches at multiple locations and continues to train and compete. He is a dedicated instructor and valued member of the LSIT teaching team.

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예의

Courtesy

Ye-wee

Courtesy (예의, ye-wee) reminds us to show respect in the dojang and beyond through sincere etiquette and kindness.

염치

Integrity

Yom-chee

Integrity (염치, yom-chee) calls for honesty, strong morals, and the courage to do what is right even when it is difficult.

인내

Perseverance

Een-nay

Perseverance (인내, een-nay) is the willingness to keep pushing toward every goal despite obstacles in training or life.

극기

Self Control

Gook-gee

Self control (극기, gook-gee) keeps thoughts, emotions, and actions in balance so we can respond with a steady mind and body.

백절불굴

Indomitable Spirit

Baekjool Boolgool

Indomitable spirit (백절불굴, baekjool boolgool) is to be defeated a hundred times yet never bent — the heart of true strength.

예의

Courtesy

Ye-wee

Courtesy (예의, ye-wee) reminds us to show respect in the dojang and beyond through sincere etiquette and kindness.

염치

Integrity

Yom-chee

Integrity (염치, yom-chee) calls for honesty, strong morals, and the courage to do what is right even when it is difficult.

인내

Perseverance

Een-nay

Perseverance (인내, een-nay) is the willingness to keep pushing toward every goal despite obstacles in training or life.

극기

Self Control

Gook-gee

Self control (극기, gook-gee) keeps thoughts, emotions, and actions in balance so we can respond with a steady mind and body.

백절불굴

Indomitable Spirit

Baekjool Boolgool

Indomitable spirit (백절불굴, baekjool boolgool) is to be defeated a hundred times yet never bent — the heart of true strength.