WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BLACK SASH TRAINING
A black sash is recognized as a significant milestone in martial arts. But contrary to what many people think, it doesn’t mean mastery in an art. The black sash is the beginning of further learning and discovery. Lifelong, in fact.
The true relevance of black sash training
Bruce Lee once described the significance of a black belt as, “nothing more than a strip of cloth to hold your pants up.”
NOT literally.
What he really meant is, the sash was literally a way to hold up our pants back in the day. But today it is used as measurable milestones. A black sash is a way to set measurable goals in martial arts training. Just like in school, you earn a high school diploma, then an associate’s degree, a bachelors degree, and so on. You don’t STOP learning when you achieve one of these goals, even if you don’t continue on to earn the next higher degree. A black sash does NOT mean you are done practicing.
The meaning of his words reinforces the fact that a black sash is a sign of your dedication to continuing your journey of discovery and learning. In today’s world, people thrive on convenience and using irrelevant things as a measurement of success. The black sash stands for something different and true.
Black sash training in martial arts schools helps us to set goals parallel to educating students. We build character and teach you a variety of life skills your K12 schools and universities might not. The combination along with your academic background empowers you for lifelong success.
Our martial arts school is designed such that students can engage in seasonal and recreational activities, alongside their black sash training to enhance their lives for the better. Martial arts specifically focuses on character development in a way other sports do not.
The benefits of black sash training are limitless, and they include:
- Ability to defend yourself physically
- Teaches SMART goal setting and achievement
- Confidence
- Ability to overcome negative peer pressure
- Discipline
- Self-respect
- Fitness
- Emotional intelligence
- Improved diet and nutrition
- Peace of mind and calm spirit
- A way to relieve stress
- Ability to build better relationships
- Mindfulness
- Focus
- Better performance in all areas of life
- Compassion
- And more
Black sash training helps you engage in a developmental process to promote your success in high school, college, business, and all areas of life.
Earning a spot in the black sash program
You have to qualify to participate in a black sash program. Our goal is to make sure we are a good fit for you and you are a good fit for us! In our academy, we look for students who have the right attitude and put in the proper effort. Physical skills are important for the mastery level of a black sash, but a student’s attitude and character is the most critical requirement. We aim to groom students that can be future leaders in their schools, community, and wherever they find themselves.
To be qualified for black sash training, you not only have to master combat and skill but are expected to show humility, patience, and respect. It lies in the hands of your teacher to determine if you are fit to be awarded this milestone. Being careful, respectful, committed, and conscientious shows good character and paves the way to attaining a black sash.
Continuous learning is also what makes the black sash hold any significance, otherwise it becomes nothing more than how Bruce Lee describes it, but in literal terms. Our black sash students don’t stop when they earn the black sash. But it is a moment to celebrate.
What’s involved in a black sash/belt?
Typically, a black sash demonstrates or represents advanced skills in Kung Fu. Students can often earn their black sash after three to four years of training. Also, sometimes advanced degrees of a black belt continues throughout the practitioner’s life.
Black sash requirements include advanced weapons work, philosophical development, and martial arts skills.
Start today. In a year, you’ll look back and realize you could already be a year into your life-changing black sash journey.
Owings Mills: (443) 394-9222
Marriottsville: (443) 545-5566
What Others Say About us!
One of the Finest Chinese Martial Arts Schools in the Country
Some of the best competitors and teachers that I've ever met come from this fine school. It has a tradition of excellence in all they do. Grandmaster Huang, Chien-Liang and the US Kuo Shu Academy build champions with integrity.
Nelson Ferriera
The School has Transformed my Life.
The school has transformed my life and made me a better man body and soul. It's really special to witness the transformation of the the youth at the school as well. The staff at the school really care about the students and each other. This is all so vital to our youth for they are the future of things to come.
Bruce Seward
USKSA is not just a Chinese martial arts school, it’s a lifestyle
How lucky it was, that we stopped by USKSA. Instantly it becomes an irreplaceable part of life. And not just for my daughter, mine as well, since I became a student too. USKSA is not just a Chinese martial arts school, it is a lifestyle. It is a family. The school changed my life I can proudly say: I am a better person now, stronger (mentally and physically), even happier than I've been before I joined the USKSA. There is not enough good words to say. Thank you.
Alex Reznikov
I am learning how to be a Better Person
I am proud to study at US Kuo Shu Academy for Three Main Reasons. The instructors provide superior quality teaching and have in-depth knowledge of martial arts principles The genuine passion for teaching authentic martial arts, The sincere attitude that permeates every class that I am not just learning how to be a better martial artist, I am learning how to be a better person.
Steve Smith
Made me healthier physically and mentally and more focused & organized at work
It has helped me keep my sanity! Made me healthier physically and mentally and more focused and organized at work. I am a better person, writer, and mother because of my experiences at USKSA. And it's been the "village" that has helped my sons learn about values and character and hard work. If you want to change your life for the better, if you want to give your children tools...then this is the place.
Xylia Hall
Nothing Short of Amazing
The US Kuo Shu Academy is an amazing, traditional martial arts school with stellar instructors and an incredibly well-developed curriculum. My experience there - both at Owings Mills and in Marriottsville - has been nothing short of amazing. The Tai Chi program provides an incredibly layered experience that combines both the meditative/health aspects of Tai Chi, along with the martial aspects of the form. They truly care about their students, and provide expertise and support in an environment that is both caring and rigorous. Whether your interest in Tai Chi or Kung Fu, meditation or martial practice, this is the place to be.
Margaret Boas
I’ve gained a sense of self-confidence I had never realized
My association with this system began 7 years ago. My only goal at the time was to have a form of exercise in my life that didn't bore me. I was very overweight and was in desperate needs of getting in shape. In addition to helping me lose over 100 lbs, I've gained a sense of self-confidence I had never realized was missing from my life. I've made friendships that will last the rest of my life. I've been mentored by some amazing people, and I've had the great honor to mentor some amazing people.
Jeramy Hansen
I’ve gained a sense of self-confidence I had never realized
My association with this system began 7 years ago. My only goal at the time was to have a form of exercise in my life that didn't bore me. I was very overweight and was in desperate needs of getting in shape. In addition to helping me lose over 100 lbs, I've gained a sense of self-confidence I had never realized was missing from my life. I've made friendships that will last the rest of my life. I've been mentored by some amazing people, and I've had the great honor to mentor some amazing people. Joining US Kuo Shu Academy was one of the best decisions I've ever made.
Jeramy Hansen
Nothing Short of Amazing
The US Kuo Shu Academy is an amazing, traditional martial arts school with stellar instructors and an incredibly well-developed curriculum. My experience there - both at Owings Mills and in Marriottsville - has been nothing short of amazing. The Tai Chi program provides an incredibly layered experience that combines both the meditative/health aspects of Tai Chi, along with the martial aspects of the form. They truly care about their students, and provide expertise and support in an environment that is both caring and rigorous. Whether your interest in Tai Chi or Kung Fu, meditation or martial practice, this is the place to be.
Margaret Boas
I am learning how to be a Better Person
I am proud to study at US Kuo Shu Academy for Three Main Reasons. The instructors provide superior quality teaching and have in-depth knowledge of martial arts principles The genuine passion for teaching authentic martial arts, The sincere attitude that permeates every class that I am not just learning how to be a better martial artist, I am learning how to be a better person.
USKSA is not just a Chinese martial arts school, it’s a lifestyle
How lucky it was, that we stopped by USKSA. Instantly it becomes an irreplaceable part of life. And not just for my daughter, mine as well, since I became a student too. USKSA is not just a Chinese martial arts school, it is a lifestyle. It is a family. The school changed my life I can proudly say: I am a better person now, stronger (mentally and physically), even happier than I've been before I joined the USKSA. There is not enough good words to say. Thank you.
Alex Reznikov
The School has Transformed my Life
The school has transformed my life and made me a better man body and soul. It's really special to witness the transformation of the the youth at the school as well. The staff at the school really care about the students and each other. This is all so vital to our youth for they are the future of things to come.
Bruce Seward
One of the Finest Chinese Martial Arts Schools in the Country
Some of the best competitors and teachers that I've ever met come from this fine school. It has a tradition of excellence in all they do. Grandmaster Huang, Chien-Liang and the US Kuo Shu Academy build champions with integrity.
Nelson Ferriera
The Best School of Martial Arts
My children have been students for more than 4 years now and they love this school of martial arts. US Kuo Shu Academy is their second home, learning not just Kung Fu but also developing one’s character as a good, responsible, respectful and disciplined citizen. Thank you very much Grandmaster Huang. Master Michael Hung and all the teachers and students for making this place the best school of martial arts.