Meet Mr. Reginald Wilkins: A National Karate Veteran Inspiring Students in South Elgin, Bartlett, Elk Grove & Roselle, IL
Grand Master Worley, Mr. Wilkins & Mr. Nelson
Mr. Reginald Wilkins, a 5th Degree Black Belt with 20 years of teaching experience, brings exceptional expertise and enthusiasm to National Karate of Roselle, Bartlett and South Elgin. His martial arts journey began under the expert tutelage of Master Cristian Nelson at the South Elgin National Karate School. After earning his Instructor Certification, Mr. Wilkins took charge of the South Elgin Park District satellite program, where he still teaches today.
Known for his high-energy teaching style, Mr. Wilkins strikes the perfect balance between fun and discipline. His engaging and motivating approach inspires students of all ages, whether they are participating in youth martial arts in Elk Grove, IL, or exploring adult martial arts in Bartlett, IL.
As an instructor at the Bartlett, South Elgin, and Elk Grove/Roselle National Karate Schools, Mr. Wilkins’ dedication ensures students receive the highest quality of martial arts training.
A Martial Arts Journey Rooted in Personal Growth
Let’s dive deeper into his inspiring journey with this short interview…
Q: When did you join National Karate?
A: I began practicing martial arts in January 2004 and have been involved ever since.
Q: How old were you when you started training in the martial arts with National Karate?
A: I was 36 years old when I began my journey in karate.
Q: What inspired you to begin martial arts training?
A: I was motivated by several factors, including the desire for self-defense and personal growth. Martial arts teach resilience, patience, and continuous improvement, which have been incredibly fulfilling for me.
Q: What degree of Black Belt are you, and when are you eligible for your next degree?
A: I’m currently a 5th Degree Black Belt and eligible to test for my next degree in January 2027.
The Meaning Behind the Belt
Q: What has earning a Black Belt meant to you
Mr. Wilkins on his 4th Degree Black Belt Exam
A: Earning my Black Belt is about continual self-improvement. It’s allowed me to perfect katas, sparring techniques, and self-defense moves while inspiring and guiding students in their own martial arts journeys. It’s especially gratifying to earn a Black Belt from National Karate because of their storied history and national reputation. My long-term goal is to become an owner/director of a National Karate School.
Q: How has National Karate impacted your life?
A: National Karate has motivated me to set and achieve personal goals. The consistent progress I’ve made, both as a martial artist and an individual, has profoundly shaped my life.
The Joy of Teaching Martial Arts
Q: What do you enjoy most about teaching karate?
Mr. Wilkins with one of his students
A: Teaching karate is incredibly fulfilling and I love seeing my students become stronger, more confident and successful people. Martial Arts requires focus, patience, and perseverance, which have helped me build mental toughness and I love passing on my skills and knowledge to others. The relationships I’ve built with students and fellow instructors have created a strong, supportive community.
The Diamond Nationals
Q: What’s your favorite memory of the Diamond Nationals?
Mr. Wilkins with his youngest son and Diamond Nationals Champion Hailey Glass
A: It’s always fun to go compete at the biggest and the best martial arts tournament in America. And it was really amazing seeing my son do well at the Diamonds. And judging at the Diamond Nationals was also an unforgettable experience as you see martial artists from all over the world.
Q: Have you met Grand Master Worley – the founder of National Karate?
Mr. Wilkins with his oldest son and Grand Master Worley at the Elk Grove school
A: I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Grand Master Worley and attending his training seminars and I am really grateful that National Karate has a very special historical legacy. It is very special to be part of that.
Beyond Karate
In addition to teaching martial arts, I’m working on completing my MBA at Olivet Nazarene University, which I will finish in May 2025. Outside the dojo, I’m an avid golfer, playing around 30 rounds per year in a men’s league. I also cherish spending time with my family and traveling to new destinations.
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For anyone searching for “martial arts in Elk Grove & Roselle, IL” or “youth martial arts in Bartlett, IL,” National Karate & Martial Arts offers the perfect blend of skill-building and personal development. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced student, our passion and expertise ensure an unparalleled martial arts experience.
Find out how martial arts can transform your life, just as it did for Mr. Wilkins. Reach out to our South Elgin, Bartlett, Elk Grove, or Roselle, IL National Karate Schools to start your journey.
3-Week Trial
We offer an Internet special to allow new students to try our karate class for 3 weeks for FREE and we will throw in a FREE karate uniform to complete the experience! National Karate’s industry-leading curriculum teaches children and parents how to stay safe in a challenging and dangerous world. This 3-week special allows the firsthand experience so you can determine the benefits of karate classes. You’ll even get to meet others in the Elk Grove / Roselle community who’ve been able to benefit from the disciplines of martial arts.
After three weeks, you’ll know if our program is right for you (We know you’re going to love it). You can click here for 3 WEEKS FOR FREE ! If you prefer talking to us directly, give us a call at (630) 539-9969, or feel free to stop by our location during operating hours. We can’t wait to work with you and your kids!
