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"There is no way to measure all the things that have changed" “We are all one big family here at Black Belt USA." -Master King That’s the one thing that stands out from my first class. It was a Tuesday night, and I had just been physically drained through one of the toughest workouts I’ve ever encountered. Yoga (April’s specialty), shadow boxing, Thai pad work, and circuit training were all included, yet somehow after the workout everyone from the class had the energy to come up and introduce themselves to me. That was when I knew I had found the perfect fit for me. Since I began training in Muay Thai, just over a year ago, I can honestly say I am a totally different person. There is no way to measure all the things that have changed, but I can tell a huge difference in my level of confidence, and my physical fitness. Those two aspects were the two things I was trying to address by training in Muay Thai. With my job as a fireman, I face different situations every day. No one call is the same as the last, something is always changing. By training at Black Belt USA I feel as though there is nothing that I will be faced with that I can’t confront and resolve. I’ve never had that self-assurance at any other point in my life, including all of the other sports I’ve played and competed in. Training in Muay Thai has taught me to rely on myself and trust that whatever situation arises, I can endure it. The other side of training at Black Belt USA is the physical fitness and skill required to train in Muay Thai. Those aspects are addressed every class without fail. There hasn’t been a class that I haven’t learned something new. I have been at a point in training when I feel as though I have one technique understood and one of the instructors gives me advice that totally changes my perspective on my skill set. My physical fitness has also grown exponentially through training at Black Belt USA; this has also contributed to my raised level of self-confidence. I do have to admit though; it seems like every time Master King finds a new way to physically drain me. Houstin Hefner

"Black Belt USA has helped bring out the best me." I have never found trips to the gym and conventional workouts particularly appealing. In college, I always enjoyed intramural sports and activities that combined physical activity with a social atmosphere. When I decided that a kickboxing class might be a fun way to get back into shape, a friend insisted that I visit Black Belt USA. What began as an attempt to get fit in a non-traditional environment has transitioned into a journey of pushing myself to the limit and then beyond. Attending a Muay Thai class always feels like an adventure and I am constantly presented with a new challenge. I believe that the motivation and encouragement I feel comes from each student working towards a goal and then collectively sharing in one another’s success. Regardless of whether I am just at class or attending an event, the level of camaraderie and respect displayed by all students of Black Belt USA never ceases to amaze me. Patient, caring, and attentive are understatements in describing the teaching style of both Master King & Dr. King. They have an amazing ability to alleviate the insecurity that can come with learning a new skill by helping students understand their potential and focus on the growth of one’s ability. Their enthusiasm for each student’s progress, the constructive feedback they provide, and the passion they exhibit make Black Belt USA an ideal learning environment. Muay Thai has been the catalyst in helping me adopt a healthier lifestyle. I consider joining Black Belt USA to be one of the best decisions I have ever made for my overall well-being, and after beginning almost one year ago, I feel as though I am just getting started. Not only am I proud that I now possess an invaluable skill of self-defense, but my frame of mind, confidence, and physical ability have all significantly improved. I don’t think this is a “new me” as friends and family have suggested recently; I just think my experience at Black Belt USA has helped bring out “the best me.” Audrey G.

"Black Belt USA will provide you with the tools you need to meet your goals" When I first enrolled at Black Belt USA I was finishing my final semester at UNC Charlotte and was searching for a hobby that could not only occupy my time but also help me stay physically active. The Muay Thai kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs at Black Belt USA were the perfect fit. After a few short months my new pastime had become my new passion. I began competing in Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu tournaments over the next year and a half. As I improved I moved on to full contact Mixed Martial Arts and am currently the Amateur Featherweight Champion for Ruckus in the Cage. Training under Master King and, his wife and fellow instructor, Dr. Ying King has provided me with a fun and challenging fitness program that rivals any traditional workout routine. Together the Kings expertly meld family oriented fitness programs with self-defense and competition quality training. The Kings treat each student as their own child, providing support and encouragement for each individual. This class structure breeds a family friendly culture of respect far too often lacking from modern martial arts academies. Whether you are looking to get in shape, maintain good physical condition, build your self- confidence, compete, or just make friends, Black Belt USA will provide you with the tools you need to meet your goals. Kurtis Cloward

"Making an Investment in yourself" Two words I will never forget..."Step Outside." I was an HGBC Sunday School Teacher talking with a young woman from my Singles class in a restaurant when her ex-boyfriend and his buddy came up to me and challenged me to a fight. To make a long story short, I did step outside with the two young men thinking how am I going to fight two at a time. The ex-boyfriend started talking, I was waiting for punches to fly and he kept talking, no fight took place that night. Two months after that incident, I made a New Years resolution (Jan 6/06) to myself to learn self defense. I found Black Belt USA through a church member and signed up for Taekwondo. The benefits I've received since joining Black Belt USA are; Being taught by Master King and Dr. King because they care about each student and have years of training and know how to bring out the best in you. Other benefits I've experienced are; Being more confident in who I am, Being more comfortable and relaxed when I'm at home or out on the town with my wife and daughter. Physically being more flexible and better conditioned.Taekwondo has taught me different kicks and self defense techniques. Muay Thai training has helped me learn the aspect of Boxing, Timing and Flow. Overall Master King and Dr. King have helped me make the best investment I can Physically and have helped me every step of the way to become a better person through fitness for the mind and body. Thank you Master King and Dr. King. Christian Sayles

"I will be 60 years old and still taking Muay Thai" I took my first Muay Thai class in July 2006. At that point, I knew I had found a workout that would last. I have lifted weights practically all my life and on most days, I dreaded it and over time became bored with it. However, with Muay Thai, I actually look forward to working out everyday. The combination of benefits that Muay Thai provides can’t be duplicated through any other workout. My overall level of strength, conditioning, and flexibility has improved substantially. In fact, I am probably in the best shape of my life. In addition, I am confident that I can defend myself and believe that the skills that I have mastered so far at Black Belt USA have equipped me to protect myself if necessary. And finally, Master and Dr. King create a family-like atmosphere that fosters cooperation and friendship among students that really makes class fun. If my body will let me, I will be 60 years old and still taking Muay Thai. I am very fortunate to have discovered Black Belt USA. Jessica Forrest

"They have encouraged me every step of the way" I would like to give a special thank you and say I am thankful for being a part of Black Belt USA Martial Arts Academy. Master Dan & Dr Ying Yaemsiri King are incredible teachers of Muay Thai and Tae Kwon Do. When you walk into the building and see Mr . King and his wife they welcome you with a smile and I fills the room with joy and life. I knew the first time I went there that this is where I wanted to restart my training. They have encouraged me every step of the way and kept me wanting to reach further for my goal. To quote a great teacher, “all things are difficult before they become easy.”. Martino Johnson

		"The atmosphere at Black Belt USA fosters cooperation, not competition, between students, and everyone is supportive and respectful of one another" I was bored with my traditional work out routine – running, weights, etc. A friend told me about Muay Thai classes at Black Belt USA, and I decided to give it a try. Not only has it been a great source of exercise, but it has been a wonderful social experience too.
		Muay Thai is a total workout, and I’m always soaked with sweat at the end of a class. It has really improved my strength, endurance, and stress level. Muay Thai is a simple, no-nonsense martial art, which makes it a very practical and effective form of self-defense as well. The Kings are excellent instructors who focus on the fundamentals and allow you to learn and progress at your own pace. The Kings are also very caring people, who treat you like an individual, and who genuinely want you to excel, not only in Muay Thai, but in all aspects of your life. The atmosphere at Black Belt USA fosters cooperation, not competition, between students, and everyone is supportive and respectful of one another. I really enjoy coming to class, not just for the exercise but for the people too. I highly recommend Black Belt USA. Kristen Trull

		"I knew this was a perfect fit for me" I really appreciate Master and Dr. King for their passion and patience in teaching all of their students. I met Master King at our school career fair. He spoke to a group of students about his business. I listened to his presentation and it interested me. I spoke with him after the presentation. Then, I visited the school and was impressed with the instruction and commitment to the students. Immediately, I decided to join. After attending the start-up classes as well as observing regular classes, I knew this was a perfect fit for me.
		After embracing the teachings and the culture of the sports, I have seen a very positive affect physically and mentally for me. The classes have provided an avenue for stress relief. At work one day, I was faced with a potentially explosive situation. Remembering the student commitments and practicing self-control helped me to handle the situation in a positive fashion instead of being a part of the problem. Seeing the benefits that I have experience so far, I look forward to the additional benefits of participating in the classes. My wife has commented on the many ways that she has seen the classes affect me in a variety of ways. I have encouraged my wife to join and she is looking forward to getting started. We are excited to see the ways that the classes will benefit us as a family. Ray Lee

"We hope Jacie and Jared both carry the valuable lessons they learn on this wonderful journey" Our 10 yr. old son, Jared, was diagnosed with a relatively minor Gross Motor Delay (affecting things like running, kicking, balance, over all strength, etc..) several years ago. However minor his difficulties are, some of the popular sports for boys have been increasingly difficult for him to participate in without ridicule and isolation from teammates and sadly even from coaches and other parents. As parents, these experiences made us very leery to ever sign Jared up for any kind of sport again; however, Jared decided he wanted to learn a martial art and set out to convince us to give it a shot. Eventually, we found Black Belt USA’s website. Master King assured us that Black Belt USA would be a good place for Jared. We don’t think he knew how good it would really be for Jared: In the almost 6 months that Jared has been studying under Master and Dr. King and the instructors, there has been a significantly noticeable improvement in his Delay! An improvement that has not been previously achieved through prescribed Physical Therapy sessions aimed to catch Jared up to his peers!! Specifically, in a few short months TKD has radically improved Jared’s coordination and flexibility. We are beginning to see his strength and stamina improve also! Perhaps most importantly, Jared’s self confidence is soaring as he passes rank tests, participates in tournaments, and is encouraged to do his best by everyone at Black Belt USA! The other students and instructors are simply a wonderful group that accepts every student despite different levels of ability! What a relief to us and a blessing for Jared! We believe in our hearts that Master and Dr. King and the instructors at Black Belt USA are significantly shaping Jared’s future in all areas of his life! Jared had been studying at Black Belt USA for about two months when we enrolled our 6 yr. old daughter, Jacie. TKD has been an equally positive experience for her! She feels so completely loved by the Kings and the instructors and absolutely loves them all, too. She constantly talks about class, Master and Dr. King, the instructors and the other students. We are so thankful for this positive experience for her and the positive role models she has! We see that the way of life of TKD is gradually but consistently becoming ingrained in our children’s hearts. We hope Jacie and Jared both carry the valuable lessons they learn on this wonderful journey, guided by the Kings, with them forever. To sum up, we are impressed. So impressed in fact, that I am committing to study Muay Thai under the Kings’ direction and my wife is considering joining the kids in learning TKD (she just has to get over her shyness! Alex and Cathy Santiago

"We are also very pleased with the positive attitude that you bring forth to your students" Mr. Coley and I would like to thank you for welcoming Shadae into your school. We think you both are two of the best TaeKwondo instructors here in Charlotte, NC. We are also very pleased, and feel we choose the best school for your daughter. Shadae really enjoys attending class, although she is such a little lady, she also has a very competitive side to her. Being in your class has taught Shadae the meaning of TaeKwondo, along with commitment, strength, but most importantly self control. Also with her knowing this skill is a good form of physical education. We are also very pleased with the positive attitude that you bring forth to your students along with the other instructors here at Black Belt USA. Kesha Coley I like my TaeKwondo School, and working with all the other children in my group, and how we have fun together. Two of my favorite moments are when I break the piece of wood, and get to test for my next level belt. I am happy when I get presented with certificates and awards because I know that I earned them. You are good teachers. Thank you. Shadae Hunt-Coley

"My immediate family grows stronger by learning, struggling and triumphing together" When my wife and I walked into a Black Belt USA for the first time, we knew right away that this was the place for our then 6-year-old son to learn martial arts. Master Dan King encouraged us to learn tae kwon do as a family. While not our original interest, we decided to enroll my son, daughter and their 38-year-old dad! I was immediately drawn to the character of Black Belt USA. The five principles connected with me right away: courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable Spirit. Today, it is clear that Master and Doctor King embody these principles and expect their students to do the same. Their standard has created an atmosphere among students that transcends us as individuals and binds us together. I want my family to continue developing and practicing this kind of character. The King’s are also excellent martial artists and effective teachers. Master King’s skill at Tae Kwon Do was showcased this year during testing for his 6th degree black belt. His skill, strength, commitment, endurance, and quickness made me proud and humble… he was awesome. The experience confirmed for me that our family was in the right tae kwon do school and that the right instructor was teaching us. It was also evident watching Master King that I have a long way to go. Anyway, my near term goal is to keep up with my kids! There are many benefits to learning tae kwon do at Black Belt USA. First and most importantly, practice of this martial art is at harmony my personal spiritual beliefs. Secondly, my immediate family grows stronger by learning, struggling and triumphing together. I am a proud papa when seeing the smiles on my children’s faces after completing a tournament or being promoted to the next belt. We also have the benefit to getting to know and trust an extended family as part of Black Belt USA. As we grow in tae kwon do, there is also the benefit of self-confidence that stems from accomplishing challenging physical and mental tasks. I am excited that my wife recently began Muay Thai (kick boxing) lessons at the Black Belt USA. I am very proud of her and glad she is joining us in martial arts. So far, I am counting this as a benefit. I might regret that later (smile). Physical fitness is another key benefit that makes TKD training worth the journey. Physically, my body is being transformed. I am stronger and more flexible than a year ago. I do seek a black belt. It will symbolize my proficiency at this martial art. However, I have already gained so much more than merely a black belt. I am eager to continue the journey not just to reach a destination but also to enjoy the physical, emotional, and spiritual elements of the journey itself. I am truly thankful to be a part of the Black Belt USA family and to be learning martial arts with my wife and children. Although our 4 year old is an unofficial member and regular attendee (complete with uniform), he too will eventually join us as students at Black Belt USA. I look forward with hope and enthusiasm to the challenging and rewarding days ahead for my family. Paul Latten

"Black Belt USA School is a wonderful place to be" I wanted to take this time to tell how wonderful your school has been for me and my children. We had an incident one day. That day opened up our eyes to just have vunerable our children really are. Turn your back for just a second and they could be gone! Not to go into much detail here but you hear it all the time on news that a child is missing although this incident turned out ok. We looked into ways that my children could defend themselves when that time, if ever, does occur. So we looked at your school and there was really no need to look anywhere else, we knew we'd found the right place. We enrolled Michelle and soon afterward we enrolled Michael. I wasn't interested in taking class, it was all about the children! My mom brought home a uniform one day and said you’re taking it too! Well after turning red in the face, (my MOM telling me what I'm doing…I'm 45 year old man duh! ) I started taking your classes as well. But it didn't take long after being there to see that this was going to be fun, spending time with the kids doing something together with them. I've lost 20 lbs too since I've started. I can see changes in both my kids in school and at home. Michael is now saying “Yes ma'am” and “No ma'am” and Michelle is more focused. I think she even has a boyfriend she found there! I thank you and the all the instructors who have been really caring and some have gone that extra distance to make sure you fully understand what it is your learning by giving one on one help and explaining what we did wrong and showing step by step what the correct way is. That's important. I could go on about the wonderful things your school has done for my family and me but I think you get the idea. Black Belt USA School is a wonderful place to be ! ! Scott Rippy

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