Michael Webster (center) and his kickboxing students. (Photo courtesy Webster’s Kickboxing)

Webster’s Kickboxing and Fitness was founded in 2021 by Michael Webster, a kickboxing and Muay Thai coach and a personal trainer. The gym, which recently moved to Cutchogue, offers a varied slate of workouts for all skill levels, including popular group kickboxing classes, private and semi-private sessions, strength training, heavy bag workouts, circuit training and mitt work.

Webster, a Greenport resident, came to kickboxing relatively late in life.

“I started training at 28,” he says. “I was out of shape when I joined a gym in Port Jefferson Station … I fell in love with kickboxing and it changed my life.”

Tired of the long drive to the gym, he began training on his own, jumping rope and running drills in local parks and learning Muay Thai, a style of full-contact kickboxing that uses elbows and knees. Webster eventually got his personal trainer certification and began coaching.

While a few fighters at the gym and Webster himself compete in International Kickboxing Federation events, “the vast majority of clients come for fitness and self-defense,” he says. “You don’t have to be a fighter or in great shape to start…I meet clients where they are to reach their potential. The hardest part is taking the first step.”

Kids’ classes for ages 6-10 and 11-14 are offered, as well. Webster focuses on drills for coordination, agility, and strength, and uses games to teach kids technique. “We keep it as true to the sport as we can, making sure it’s safe for young brains and bodies,” says Webster.

Webster notes that the ability to persevere through adversity is one of the great benefits of training. “There’s a mental benefit, stress relief, and positive feelings — those things resonate, and I try to pass that on to the students,” he says.

Webster’s Kickboxing and Fitness is open by appointment only. To arrange a session email [email protected] or call 631-887-9034. Keep an eye on social media for special offers on training packages.