Your child can experience our program firsthand through a complimentary, no-obligation evaluation lesson at either our Owings Mills or Marriottsville / Ellicott City location. This initial session is the perfect way for your family to meet our instructors, tour our school, and see if our approach is the right fit for your child's goals and personality.

This is more than just a simple "trial lesson"; it is a personalized assessment designed to give you a true sense of our program. During the evaluation, one of our experienced instructors will work with your child one-on-one, guiding them through some basic movements to gauge their coordination, focus, and listening skills. It is a positive and encouraging introduction to the world of martial arts. Afterward, the instructor will speak with you to discuss your child's strengths, answer your specific questions, and explain how our program can help them grow. Booking is simple: you can use the "Free Lesson" button on our website or call the school nearest you to reserve a spot. We keep these sessions limited to ensure each new student receives our full attention.

Our traditional Kung Fu program is designed to develop the whole person—fostering a strong mind, a healthy body, and a resilient spirit. While students learn effective self-defense, the core benefits that parents see extend into every area of their child's life, including improved performance at school and better relationships with peers.

The primary benefits of our program include:

• Unshakable Confidence and Self-Esteem: As children master new skills and advance through our sash ranking system, they gain a tangible sense of accomplishment. Performing in front of their peers in a safe, supportive environment teaches them how to handle pressure and builds a quiet confidence that helps them navigate social challenges.
• Improved Focus and Discipline: In a world full of distractions, our classes provide a structured environment that teaches children to concentrate. The practice of learning "forms" (pre-arranged sequences of movements) and following clear instructions from our instructors strengthens their ability to focus, a skill that directly translates to better attention in the classroom.
• Character Development and Respect: Our school's motto is "Virtue, Wisdom, Humility, Martial arts". We instill traditional values of respect for instructors, fellow students, and oneself. Children learn self-control, perseverance, and the importance of a positive attitude.

Effective Anti-Bullying Strategies: We empower children by building their confidence, which makes them less likely to be a target for bullies. We also teach them the practical skills and awareness to de-escalate situations and, if necessary, safely defend themselves.

We have two convenient locations in the Baltimore area to serve our community. Both schools feature ample free parking directly outside the front door and are fully ADA-compliant, with wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms.

Owings Mills Campus

• Address: 10999 Red Run Blvd, Suite 214, Owings Mills, MD 21117
• Phone: (443) 394-9222

Marriottsville / Ellicott City Campus

• Address: 2470 Longstone Lane, Suite O, Marriottsville, MD 21104
• Phone: (443) 545-5566

Our front desk is typically staffed during the following hours, but please note that class times vary by program. We recommend checking our online schedule or calling for the most up-to-date information on specific classes.

• Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Yes, absolutely. Our program is exceptionally well-suited for children with ADHD, and we have a long history of being recommended by doctors, counselors, and therapists for this very reason. The inherent structure of traditional martial arts provides the external framework that helps children develop internal self-regulation, focus, and emotional control.

Many parents of neurodivergent children find our approach transformative. Here’s how it works:

• Structured and Predictable Environment: Classes follow a consistent routine with clear rules and rituals, such as bowing to show respect. This predictability helps reduce anxiety and allows children with ADHD to thrive.
• Short, Focused Drills: Our instruction is broken down into short, manageable segments. This keeps students engaged and prevents them from feeling overwhelmed, aligning perfectly with how a child with ADHD learns best.
• Individual Pace and Journey: In our school, the focus is on personal growth, not direct competition with others. Every student progresses at their own pace, which builds self-esteem without the pressure of having to keep up with a team.
• Positive Energy Outlet: The physical demands of Kung Fu provide a healthy and constructive outlet for hyperactivity. This intense physical activity, combined with mindful breathing exercises, helps improve emotional regulation and calmness.
• Strengthening Neural Networks: Studies have shown that complex physical activities like martial arts can strengthen the brain's neural networks, directly improving a child's ability to practice self-control and executive function.

U.S. Kuo Shu Academy is different because we offer an authentic, traditional martial arts education focused on character development, backed by an unparalleled legacy of excellence. While many schools teach fighting techniques, our primary goal is to build better people.

Here are our key differentiators:

• An Unmatched Legacy: Founded in 1973 by world-renowned Grandmaster Huang Chien-Liang, our academy has over 50 years of experience serving the Baltimore community. This half-century of stability and expertise is something very few schools can claim.
• Proven Excellence and Authority: We are known as the "Maker of Champions and Builder of Character" who become not only champions in martial arts but champions in life. Our students have won national, international, and world championships, and our dedication to excellence has earned commendations from multiple Presidents of the United States. This level of recognition is a testament to the quality of our instruction.
• Authentic Lineage and Global Affiliation: We teach the traditional Tien Shan Pai system and are charter members of the World Kuo Shu Federation and the United States Kuo Shu Federation. We also host the prestigious U.S. International Kuo Shu Championship Tournament, a major event that attracts competitors from around the globe. This connects our students to a legitimate, worldwide martial arts community.

A Focus on Virtue: Our teaching is guided by the motto: "Virtue, Wisdom, Humility, Martial arts". We believe the lessons learned in our school—discipline, respect, and perseverance—are more important than any physical technique. This philosophy creates a positive, supportive, and non-intimidating community where students build each other up.