U.S. Taekwondo Academy — Attraction in Bel Air

I am a 50-year-old male. I have always wanted to try martial arts as there were many movies in that genre when I was growing up but as the years progressed, nothing came of it until my wife and I started watching the now famous Cobra Kai TV show. I realize it was entertainment on TV but at the time, COVID had everyone locked down and we were tired of sitting in the house for months on end, so we searched for a class to join.

We found U.S. Taekwondo Academy through a personal recommendation. We met with Master Chang for an initial consultation, and he described the program and asked us what we wanted to achieve. At the time, I weighed 385 pounds, so my primary goal was to lose weight. Master Chang was understanding of our needs and was excited for us to try the program; so, we decided to move forward.

We started at the White belt, as everyone does, and it was hard! I had to take many breaks during exercises and could hardly lift my legs for kicks. I felt depressed but it was Master Chang that was supportive. I suppose he could see the emotions on my face and always said to me, “if you make sure you come to class and give me your all, I promise you, you will feel much better”. So fast forward months later and I cannot wait for the next class! I practice at home, trying to perfect things we were taught in class. I wish there were a 3-day a week option! I have dropped 45 pounds and have progressed a few belts, take fewer breaks, and can kick so high one of Master Chang’s assistants said he was impressed.

Master Chang has instilled a new passion within me. While I still have aches and pains (and you will too if you put in the effort), I still go to class no matter what and put in a 110% every time. Classes are high paced, and action packed. I have decided that this is a long-term commitment for me and aspire to achieve more knowledge of the art. I owe those feelings to Master Chang’s commitment, dedication, support, encouragement, and providing a rewarding environment to those that will put in the effort.

If you are on the fence about joining, I invite you to try it out. The initial consultation and attendance to one class is free where you can kick and punch like the rest of us and decide for yourself. Everyone in our class at U.S. Taekwondo Academy is understanding, welcoming and supportive no matter what the age or knowledge level. Master Chang inspires all of us to support each other in becoming the...

I Can’t Thank USTA Chang for all they have done for my Grandson Carson Freeman. Carson has been in Taekwondo since he was 5 years old However when his First mentor and Master Left the Baltimore Area Carson decided to take a Break from Taekwondo. He was 12 at the time he is now 16. Carson asked me if he could go back to Taekwondo about 2 Years ago. At first, I was reluctant as there are so many Taekwondo Schools that really don’t care one way or the other about the Student except that they get paid. Carson has always been a Great Kid, Smart, Polite, Creative, Handsome, Respectful, and just an all-around Great Person…. Yes, I am Bias he is my Grandson after all, however all of this is True. I was concerned however as Carson didn’t really care for any Sports or Extracurricular Activities except maybe his XBOX. There is nothing wrong with that except no Growing Young Person should only have School and XBOX in their Life. So, I started looking for a Good Taekwondo School where Carson would be Happy, Learn but Learn the Right Way. I not only found a Good School but a GREAT SCHOOL in USTA Chang and a GREAT MASTER & MENTOR in Master CJ Chang. Carson has Grown so much and in Only the Best way being a Part of USTA CHANG. I am usually always at Carson’s Classes as I love to watch him Grow in his Sport. I have watched over the last 2 years as Master CJ Chang teaches his Students. Master CJ always takes the time to help each of his students and is always there to help & advise his students. That means so much to a Parent and/or Grandparent as our Young and Growing Children need the kind of Support Master CJ Chang gives them as they find their way into their teen years as well as into Respectful Productive Young Adults. I am Thrilled I made the decision to choose USTA Chang as the Taekwondo school for my Grandson and would Recommend it to anyone looking for the Best of the Best in Taekwondo Training as well as a Caring School, that sees All their Students and Student’s Families as a Part of their Own Extended Family. Carson certainly sees Master CJ Chang as his Master, Mentor and most importantly his Hyung. For that I am eternally grateful. I know what Master CJ Chang teaches Carson will stay with him throughout his Life! Thank You USTA Chang and Especially Master CJ Chang. I have put Carson in Your hands and You have not disappointed...

My 8-year old daughter Libby has been taking Taekwondo at USTA for about two and a half years. She is now one belt away from earning her black belt! When she started, she attended Master Jennifer’s Churchville school, but when she started 2nd grade, she transitioned to the After-School Program at Master Chang’s Main Street school. This program is very well run and incorporates after-school pickup, homework time, snack time, and TKD class time. They also pick a “Star of the Month” and reward a child with a certificate and gift for demonstrating respect, good behavior, and helpfulness, among other things.

In addition to the After-School Program, my daughter is part of Team Chang, which has special training on Fridays and Saturdays at the Main Street school. This training focuses on developing the skills that the athletes need to compete in both local and national tournaments. It pushes the students to new extremes, both physically and mentally. Master Chang, Master Jennifer, and their teaching staff have an amazing ability to motivate the team - they are on the floor working with the students and demonstrating techniques, not sitting on the side-lines. They want the students to be the best-of-the-best. They recognize the strengths and weaknesses of each of their students and have the uncanny ability to get through to the students while taking into account their individual idiosyncrasies.

Our experience at USTA has been amazing and has promoted the evolution of TKD as a “fun thing to do” into a competitive sport for my daughter. Not only does TKD at USTA develop strength, flexibility, and grace, it teaches respect, discipline, honesty, and self defense, all of which are invaluable assets to possess.

Master Chang and his USTA staff are outstanding role models for all their students and are well worth the...