Master Andrew Johnson has been studying the art of Taekwondo for 34 years. He started his martial arts journey at the age of 8 yrs old in Alton, Illinois under the instruction of Master Sonny Hatten (who at the time was a 4th Dan Black belt) at Piasa Martial Arts. Due to a close death in the family and life changing events, Master Johnson stepped away from martial arts for some years. But, during this time, he continued to practice his art that he loves so dearly. Upon returning back to his practice, he began at The Way Martial Arts, under the instruction of Mr. Jordan Brown, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Here, he tested for his 3rd degree/level 2 Black belt under the Ultimate Leadership Martial Arts Association (ULMAA), learning a style called Chidoryok and began instructing classes at the school. Never forgetting his traditional roots and upbringing in Taekwondo, Master Johnson was determined to teach the traditional art. His love of martial arts and teaching is what brought him to open Strength Martial Arts Academy under affiliation with United World Taekwondo Association (UWTA) where on October 4, 2019, Master Johnson tested and earned his 4th Dan Black belt. Master Johnson also tested and earned is 1st Dan Kukkiwon on May 1, 2020 through the US Kukkiwon Association. Here at Strength Martial Arts Academy,  Master Johnson teaches the history and techniques of traditional Taekwondo. 

"Martial arts is a way of life not just about techniques. There is history with this art. A student must not only know how to perform a poomsae and do kicks but must understand the history behind Taekwondo. This is when a student understands and appreciates "the Korean Way of Hand and Foot". - Master Andrew Johnson, 4th Dan -