AboutNathan J. Nowak Expertise We can answer any questions pertaining to Olympic Tae Kwon Do sparring. Questions about fitness and nutrition as relating to TKD training and preparation for tournaments and competition. Specific techniques and tactics while training, weight training and agility, mental toughness and visualization exercises and "day of" preparation.
Experience I have been in martial arts for over 23 years. I'm a master instructor (4th Dan) in TKD. I also have a black belt in karate. I've competed in Olympic TKD since '91.
As and athlete:(highlights) Winning a silver medal at Jr. Olympic nationals ('92), AATU National champion ('94), over 10 GA State Championship and GA Games medals. Won a bronze medal at the U.S. Open (2000). With drew from the Olympic Qualifier in 2004 from a torn ACL.
As a coach: (highlights) I've coached a women's TKD team since '99. With over 30 members spanning the eight year history of the team, we have 7 National Championship Gold medals, 2 Silver and 1 Bronze. The team medals at every state and regional tournament they attend. Several members have been undefeated for several years. Our training covers strength and endurance workouts, tactics and strategy, nutrition and supplementation, mental toughness and visualization, and maintaining weight while leading up to competition.
I've been a certified personal trainer since "98 and have worked in the fitness and nutrition arena since '94. The team has their own training center that they share with the gym that I own. Trinity Fitness in Atlanta, GA
Organizations USAT
AAU
USSSA
NSCA
Publications Atlanta Sports and Fitness Magazine, CBS46 News Atlanta, FOX's Good Day Atlanta, Atlanta Journal and Constitution and in newspapers across the United States.
Education/Credentials Personal Training Certificate (School of Fitness and Nutrition)
4th Dan Black Belt (Kukkiwon)
USAT Certified Level 2 Coach
AAU Certified Coach
Former USSSA Certified Coach
Member of NSCA
Awards and Honors Coach of 2001 AS&FM Athlete's of the Year "P.T.S. TKD Team"
First runner up 2001 AS&FM Fittest Male of the Year
Expert: Nathan J. Nowak Date: 2/3/2008 Subject: sparring footwork
Question hello sir,
your previous two answers are pretty worthy for me.this time i have come with the question of sparring footworks.i would like to know about the predominantly used sparring footwork,and how and when,and in what scenarios to use them?expecting ur worthy advices.
yours
praveen
Answer Praveen,
I apologize for the late response. We are still having problems receiving emails from allexperts.com.
It's difficult to describe footwork through email. I will do my best. If you need a follow up, please don't hesitate to ask.
One of the most commonly used motions is a forward motion without changing stances. For example, left leg forward fighting stance. You push off your back foot moving forward. After completing the motion you can then through a front leg kick (fast kick) or a back leg kick (round kick). There are many variations in kicks that can be used.
This allows you to gain more distance and close the gap between you and your opponent. It works well when you are fighting an opponent that moves backwards as you advance.
Another motion is called a running step or fast step. You literally run towards your opponent for one to two steps then deliver your technique. This motion is great for moving quickly and covering a lot of distance before your opponent has time to react.
Try these two motions first. Let me know if I can assist you further.