The James Island Dojo
The James Island Masters Studio, located just one mile off Folly Road on Camp Road, is a unique martial arts facility offering a blend of traditional and modern training. Easily accessible and situated next to the popular Paisano's Pizza, the 2,200 sq. ft. studio features a welcoming lobby, a spacious dojo with a unique "moon door," and a back room for private lessons and Zoom classes.
The atmosphere is serene and distinctly Asian, with soft blue hues and wooden accents creating a calming energy. Under the guidance of Chief Instructor Master Reggie Westbrook, a 7th Degree Black Belt with over 40 years of experience, the studio focuses on teaching Karate, Kung Fu, and Tai Chi while emphasizing core values such as respect, discipline, and self-control.
The James Island Masters Studio stands out for its structured curriculum, commitment to mental development, and the long-standing dedication of its instructors, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a comprehensive and enriching martial arts experience in the heart of James Island.
James Island Masters Studio's Training Style and Philosophy
James Island Masters Studio, employs a training style that prioritizes the mental and emotional development of his students alongside their physical progress in martial arts. His approach is guided by core values such as respect, discipline, self-control, and kindness, which he believes are essential for success both inside and outside the dojo.
Reggie emphasizes the importance of focus, concentration, and self-discipline, often using memorable phrases like "when I focus, I do better" and "the three Bs of self-control: be still, be quiet, behave." He teaches his students that discipline is about doing what they should, even when they don't feel like it, and that this mindset is crucial for their personal growth and achievement.
While Reggie ensures that his students master the physical aspects of martial arts, such as kicks, strikes, forms, and weapons training, he stresses that the most significant benefits of training lie in the development of focus, self-confidence, and self-esteem. He believes that these inner qualities are the foundation for a successful and fulfilling life, and he works to cultivate them in every class.
Reggie's teaching style also incorporates the importance of listening skills, distinguishing between simply hearing and actively listening to understand. He encourages his students, especially children, to develop their listening skills by quieting their minds and focusing on the person speaking to them.
Through his engaging and supportive teaching style, Reggie aims to equip his students with the tools they need to make good decisions, believe in themselves, and face challenges head-on. His commitment to instilling core values and life skills through martial arts training sets him apart as an instructor and mentor.
Our James Island Martial Arts Instructors
Chief Instructor Master Reggie Westbrook 7th Degree
Reggie Westbrook is the director of the James Island Masters Studio, which was originally part of the Fred Villari's Studios system. In 1991, the studio separated from Fred Villari's and became Masters Studio under the leadership of Master Mike St. Almond and Master Phil Beauregard. Reggie, a 5th Degree Black Belt in the art of Shaolin Kempo, is also a certified instructor in Tai Chi, Kung Fu, and Fitness Kickboxing. Additionally, he trains in Wushu and Wushu Weaponry.
Reggie began his martial arts journey in 1981, studying Kempo at Fred Villari's Studios in Boca Raton, Florida. He received his 1st Degree Black Belt under the instruction of Master Herb McNeil and continued his training up to the 3rd Degree, as well as his instructor's training, under Master John Fritz.
In 1986, Reggie relocated to Columbia, SC, where he continued to teach Shaolin Kempo while also studying the Ed Parker Kempo system. He believes that the combination of Villari's Shaolin Kempo and Parker's American Kempo creates an unbeatable style.
Reggie moved to Charleston in May 1996, taking over the James Island Masters Studio. He received his 3rd, 4th, and 5th degree black belts under the guidance of Master Mike St. Almond, Master Phil Beauregard, and Master Bob Nohelty. The studio has been operating in Charleston since September 4, 1984, and will celebrate its 40th anniversary in September 2024.
Reggie's Tai Chi training comes from Laoshir Joshua Grant, the director of the Tai Chi and Internal Martial Arts program at the Boston Kung Fu/Tai Chi Institute. His Kung Fu and weapons training is under the guidance of Sifu Yao Li, who is also a director at the Boston Kung Fu/Tai Chi Institute.
Alongside his martial arts career, Reggie is a passionate musician who enjoys writing and playing his own music. He appreciates Christian music and secular songs with positive messages. Reggie has recorded and produced a CD of his original Contemporary Christian songs, titled "Feel The Spirit," which encapsulates his thoughts and lessons learned throughout his life. The album is available for purchase by emailing Reggie directly.
James Carver | Instructor
James is the Chief Instructor at the James Island Masters Studio. He is a 3rd Degree Black Belt in the art of Shaolin Kempo. He also trains in Kung Fu, Tai Chi, Wushu, and Wushu Weaponry. James has been teaching at Masters Studio since 2002. He has been studying Shaolin Kempo
since 1999 under the instruction of Master Reggie Westbrook and Master Bob Nohelty. Before moving to South Carolina in 1998, James studied Tae Kwon Do for several years under
the instruction of Master Roger Jarrett.
James Island Dojo
Master Reggie Westbrook
Fifth Degree Black Belt
Shaolin Kempo Karate
Address:
1238-F Camp Rd.
Charleston, SC 29412
Phone: 843-762-1640
Instructors:
Reggie Westbrook
James Carver