FAQ: Martial Arts - U.S. Kuo Shu Academy

Looking for class times or booking? Visit our home page.

Location and Contact

What are your exact addresses and directions?

Owings Mills campus
10999 Red Run Blvd, Suite 214, Owings Mills, MD 21117.
From I 795 take Exit 4, keep left onto Owings Mills Blvd. South, right on Red Run Blvd, then first left into Red Run Corporate Center.

Marriottsville campus
2470 Longstone Lane, Suite O, Marriottsville, MD 21104.
From I 70 take Exit 83 onto Marriottsville Rd, Keep right onto Marriottsville Rd North, right on Warwick Way, right on onto Longstone Ln.

What are your hours?

Front desk is usually staffed Monday to Friday 11 AM 9 PM, Saturday 9 AM 1 PM, Sunday 9 AM 1 PM. Class times vary by program. Check the online schedule or call for the day’s lineup.

Is there free parking and wheelchair access?

Yes. Both academies have free lot parking right outside the front door. Entrances and restrooms meet ADA guidelines.

Do you offer a free trial lesson and how do I book it?

New students go through a free evaluation lesson. Use the “Free Lesson” button on our site or call either school. We’ll contact you and confirm your spot as spots are limited.

Can I tour the school before signing up?

Absolutely. We also provide a tour during your evaluation lesson have a school tour video on our site.

Choosing the Right Program

Do you have beginner only classes for adults?

Yes. Beginner Kung Fu and Tai Chi classes run every week. No fitness level or experience is required.

What age groups do you accept, and are kids separated by age?

Kids start at age 4 and have students up to 80 years old. We group classes for kids, families, and adults of all experience levels.

Do you offer programs for seniors or students with limited mobility?

Our Tai Chi program is one of the best programs for seniors and those with limited mobility. The low impact exercise can be modified for joint issues, balance concerns, or post surgery recovery. Private instruction is also available.

How will Kuo Shu training help with weight loss, stress relief, or confidence?

Classes mix cardio, strength drills, and mindful exercise with breathing known as Qi Gong. Students often report lower stress, improved posture, steady weight loss, and a big boost in day to day confidence after as little as the first three months.

Is Kuo Shu safe for children with ADHD or other special needs?

Yes. The class structure offers short, focused drills and clear routines. We have been recommended by many counselors and doctors throughout the years for those who have ADHD and other special needs. The best part is everyone is on their one pace and journey. Let us know any concerns on the information form so we can accommodate your needs.

How Classes Work

What is the typical class size and student to instructor ratio?

Classes vary, but rest assured that every class has a small student to instructor ratio. Typically there is one instructor for every ten students.

How long does it take to earn new sashes in Tien Shan Pai?

Sash advancement varies depending on the level. In general, beginners can be promoted on a six to eight week basis. Everyone is on their own pace. As the rank goes up, so does the level of requirements and time investment.

What weapons are taught, and when does that start?

Every student will learn the four primary weapons that include the long staff, broadsword, straight sword, and spear. Weapons practice starts at green sash after solid basics are in place.

Do you teach self defense specifically for women?

Yes. We run women only seminars that cover situational awareness, escape techniques, and legal basics.

Can experienced martial artists skip levels or test in?

Part of the evaluation is to determine the right level and program for new students.

Tuition and Policies

What membership options and pricing plans are available?

We offer many different types of programs for each student. Many of our families train together because of the family plans we offer. At your evaluation lesson, we will go through everything with you if you are a good candidate for our school.

Are there extra fees for uniforms, testing, or tournaments?

We do our best to have an all-inclusive program. Testing and sashes are all included in the tuition. We participate in outside tournaments, which are not included as part of the tuition.

Do you offer family, military, or student discounts?

Yes. We offer family plans for students.

What is your cancellation or extension policy?

We offer a three-day cancellation policy along with our Love It or Leave It Guarantee. We understand that sometimes life brings up unexpected circumstances and offer students the ability to extend their training time without any fees.

Trust and Credentials

Who are your head instructors and what are their credentials?

Grandmaster Huang Chien Liang is a 10th degree black sash and has trained numerous world champions. The school has been called the Maker of Champions and Builder of Character because of the students success inside and outside of the school. Today the school is led by Master Huang, who is the Master Instructor and has over 40 years of training. You can read their bios here: (LINK)

Are you affiliated with any national or international federations?

We are charter members of the World Kuo Shu Federation and the United States Kuo Shu Federation and host the USA International Kuo Shu Championship since 1988.

How long has the school been operating and how many students have graduated?

Grandmaster Huang opened the academy in 1973. We have taught tens of thousands of students and traveled to over 30 countries teaching and promoting martial arts.

Student Support

How do I access the student portal or schedule makeup classes?

After enrollment you’ll receive a login link. Use the portal to see lesson videos, book makeups, and track sash progress.

What equipment or uniform do I need on day one?

Wear workout clothes that you can move in and a pair of tennis shoes. If you enroll, you’ll receive a full uniform package.

Do you sell sparring gear on site?

Yes. Gloves, shin pads, and headgear are stocked in the pro shop at both schools.

How can I prepare for my first class?

Getting started has never been easier. Arrive 15 minutes before your lesson so you can check out the school and get started on time.