Meet the Family Behind AR TKD – Where Tradition Meets Excellence

Welcome to AR TKD

AR TKD isn’t just a school—it’s a family. Founded by Master Preston and Kim Stiles, our school in Conway, Arkansas, is built on the values of discipline, respect, and personal growth. For over 25 years, we’ve empowered students of all ages to overcome challenges, achieve their goals, and develop as leaders in life and martial arts.

At AR TKD, our mission is clear: to transform lives one student at a time by fostering confidence, discipline, and respect in every class. Whether you’re joining as a beginner or an advanced martial artist, you’ll find a welcoming, family-oriented environment ready to support your journey.

Meet Our Instructors

Master Preston and Kim Stiles

Master Preston Stiles, a sixth-degree black belt with over 25 years in martial arts, and Kim Stiles, a fourth-degree black belt and internationally certified instructor, lead AR TKD with expertise and dedication. Master Preston is not only the Arkansas State Director but also a high-level judge for WAKO Kickboxing and the state director for WAKO, bringing an impressive depth of knowledge to our school. Both Preston and Kim are rooted in martial arts and family values, having raised three children who are black belts and national champions.

At AR TKD, martial arts go beyond kicks and punches; we’re committed to building leaders. Our mission is to empower students to develop confidence, discipline, and respect, both in and out of the dojang, while supporting families in raising strong, respectful black belts who excel in martial arts and life. Join us and discover how Taekwondo can transform your family—one black belt at a time.

Master (Dr.) AJ Stiles

Dr. AJ Stiles, a sixth-degree Master black belt and multiple-time national champion, brings a profound dedication to AR TKD, where he trains alongside his wife Mikayla, also a Taekwondo student. Dr. AJ holds a Doctorate of Ministry, a Master’s in Public Administration, a Bachelor’s in Sociology, and multiple graduate-level certifications. His mission is to empower students to reach their fullest potential, nurturing the next generation of leaders to serve their communities and families with integrity and strength.

AJ’s journey through personal challenges, including learning disabilities, has fueled his commitment to teaching Taekwondo and leadership skills with a heart for helping others achieve their best. To him, AR TKD is more than just a school—it’s family.

Alexis "Mrs. Lexi" Gill

Alexis Gill, known to students as Ms. Lexi, is a fifth-degree black belt, internationally certified instructor, and multiple-time national champion. Holding a Master’s in Media Management, as well as an Associate’s and Bachelor’s in Graphic Design, she also serves as AR TKD’s dedicated weapons coach and tournament team coach, focusing on weapons training and forms. As an internationally certified judge, Ms. Lexi is passionate about guiding students to break through mental barriers, pushing them to excel as leaders and martial artists. For her, Taekwondo is a family sport, and she strives to build lasting friendships and create memories her students will cherish for years to come.

Andrew "Coach Drew" Stiles

Andrew Stiles, known as Mr. Drew, is a fourth-degree black belt, national and international champion, and tournament coach at AR TKD. Married to Lilly Stiles, a fellow Taekwondo student, Mr. Drew is a leader for the Tournament Team, regularly competing and training across multiple Taekwondo styles. He is an internationally certified judge with a Bachelor’s in Kinesiology and Nutrition. After overcoming a serious injury and knee surgery, he prioritizes the health and well-being of his students, emphasizing flexibility and mobility training to prevent injuries. Driven to help students push beyond their limits, Mr. Drew is dedicated to developing both their martial arts skills and physical fitness.

Sean "Mr. Sean" Hopkins

Sean Hopkins, a fifth-degree black belt and internationally certified instructor, brings over 20 years of martial arts experience to the AR TKD team. Known as “Uncle Sean” to the Stiles family, with whom he shares a close friendship, Mr. Sean is an invaluable presence at the school. He is especially skilled at working one-on-one with students, helping them advance in Taekwondo with personalized guidance. As a certified tournament judge, he has a passion for supporting students with disabilities, believing that Taekwondo is for everyone. He also plays a key role in our instructor training and self-defense programs, fostering an inclusive and motivating environment.

Why Choose AR TKD?

A Family-Run School with Heart:

Owned and operated by the Stiles family, AR TKD provides a unique, family-centered experience. Our instructors not only bring expertise to the mat but also share a genuine commitment to helping students achieve their best.

World-Class Instruction:

Led by Master Preston Stiles, our team includes internationally certified black belts, national champions, and dedicated coaches who bring over 20 years of experience. Each instructor is passionate about nurturing students’ growth in skill and character.

A Legacy of Leadership:

With decades of experience and leadership roles in organizations like WAKO Kickboxing, AR TKD offers students the chance to learn from some of the best martial artists in the field. Whether it’s building discipline or competing in tournaments, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Our Core Values

Discipline: The foundation of every class at AR TKD, teaching focus and accountability.
Respect: We foster an inclusive environment where every student is valued and supported.
Perseverance: Through challenges, our students learn resilience and the power of never giving up.
Community: We’re more than a school; we’re a family that grows together.

What Our Students and Families Say

The Stiles family bring it all to TaeKwonDo. Traditional focused TKD, sport style and other modern and classical techniques and weapons training blend this style of TKD into a special style. If you are looking for the ITF style of TKD with Chang Han they teach that, if you want to learn tournament style sparring , continuous style, self defense or WAKO they can teach it. They are family friendly and have years of experience teaching children and adults. You cannot go wrong with ARTKD, I learn here, my wife learns here, and so does my daughter.

This place is amazing my son been going here since he was 5 he’s now 9. His love it’s so much never wants to miss a day of practice. The amazing family that owns it is caring, and has lots of experience in Taekwondo. They all work together pushing, and teaching their students to be the best, in many ways not just in the sport but in there daily life’s. Being Respect, responsibility, caring of others. I highly recommend do anyone to take the children r them self to this business.

AR TKD has been absolutely amazing for my son. Not only is he learning a great sport and has gotten so much stronger, but he is learning how to be a better person. I am so impressed by the standard they hold the athletes to in terms of respect. I highly recommend AR TKD.

I’ve been a student here for 4 years and earned my black belt here as well. This is been a very good experience and the AR TKD family is very respectful and kind to me and all of the other students. I would highly recommend this place for you or your kid.

My girls have been at ARTKD for 3 years now! They are family, we have learned so much and have grown in confidence and self-defense. We highly recommend ARTKD

Join Our Family Today!

Ready to start your Taekwondo journey? Experience the difference a family-run, community-focused martial arts school can make. Contact us today to schedule your free trial classes and see why AR TKD is the right fit for you.