Welcome to VITA – Victoria ITF Taekwon-Do Academy
At VITA, we believe that martial arts is not just about physical ability — it’s about who you become in the process. Our mission is simple:
“Improve physical and mental wellbeing.”
We are a Melbourne-based martial arts academy offering a holistic approach to personal development through the art of Taekwon-Do, Qigong and Tai Chi. We provide world-class, age-appropriate martial arts instruction in a fun, family-friendly, and inclusive environment that promotes mutual respect, personal discipline, and mental resilience.
Here, martial arts become a tool for building a balanced lifestyle, increasing self-confidence, and learning the values that shape not only great martial artists — but great people. Whether you’re a child taking your first steps into self-discipline, a teen navigating confidence and identity, or an adult seeking focus and strength, VITA offers a place where you can thrive.
Mission
Our Purpose. Your Power
Strengthening of character and values appreciation is at the heart of everything we do. Our commitment is to provide world-class, age-appropriate, and effective martial arts instruction to each and every one of our students.
Our vibrant culture creates an atmosphere that encourages, motivates, and inspires individuals of all ages to challenge themselves, leading to a healthy, balanced lifestyle grounded in strong values, virtues, and lasting confidence. This transformation is nurtured through the cultivation of a resilient mind, a strong body, and a nourished spirit, all through the disciplined practice of martial arts.
A Journey of Dedication and Purpose
VITA was co-founded by Mauricio, an internationally recognized martial artist with over 30 years of experience across Taekwon-Do, Kung Fu, and Tai Chi. A 5th Dan Black Belt and a lifelong student of martial arts history and philosophy, Mauricio’s expertise is rooted not just in technique — but in meaning.
His journey began in Chile, where he trained and later taught students from all walks of life, including children, teens, adults, and those facing adversity — from bullied students to individuals with neurodiverse backgrounds. When moving to Australia with his partner, Belinda, they pursed his dream of sharing martial arts knowledge with the community and VITA was born — a school dedicated to inclusion, transformation, and building the personal warrior within.
Beyond martial arts, Mauricio has studied counselling and community services in Melbourne and management of addictions to Alcohol and Other Drugs in Chile, bringing a deep awareness of social wellbeing into his teaching style.
Belinda, was inspired to train in Taekwondo, Tai Chi and Qigong when living in Chile over 12 years ago. She was keen to continue her personal development journey and integration with the local community. She liked how martial arts, and its associated philosophy, improved her own and others’ physical and mental wellbeing in a natural and holistic way.
When returning to Australia she was lucky to find her new instructor, Master Tang, Tai Chi for Life who suggested she also start teaching Tai Chi. She embraced the suggestion, leaving behind her previous career, and has since run classes in the VITA dojang, as well as for Melbourne and RMIT Universities and Northern Health. Belinda is also a black belt, assistant instructor in Taekwondo and student of Chinese Medicine (RMIT Bachelor of Health Science / Applied Science). She has worked in management of organisations in diverse areas, both in Australia and overseas and has enjoyed contributing to improved community and social wellbeing.
Mauricio and Belinda’s fluency in both English and Spanish helps connect with Melbourne’s diverse community, making VITA a space where everyone feels welcome and understood.
What We Believe?
Our philosophy is rooted in the five core tenets of Taekwon-Do: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control, and Indomitable Spirit. These aren’t just words — they guide how we teach, how we train, and how we live.
We believe martial arts should be accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background, language, or ability. We run small, focused classes tailored to children, teens, adults, seniors, and special groups such as neurodiverse students or gender-specific sessions.
The 4 Pillars of our Dojang
Each Student is UNIQUE
Our programs are thoughtfully designed to cover a range of disciplines, techniques, and levels — ensuring every student finds their individual path.
Passionate Instructors
Our team lives and breathes martial arts, bringing years of experience, heart, and personalised guidance to every class.
Driven Students
From young beginners to seasoned martial artists, our community is fueled by commitment, focus, and the will to grow.
Service CoMMITMENT
We prioritise respect, commitment, and creating a welcoming space for every student and parent, whilst building resilience and personal development.