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
I've recently joined tae kwon do at my local dojang. They had a tournament on this last friday 3.14.08. I had a blast and want to do more. I would like to compete in wtf and itf style sparring tournaments, but I don't know how to go about it. What level should I be at before I start trying to compete in tournaments outside my dojang? I've only been in class for two weeks, but I've been training about 5 days a week. I'm comfortable with side, front, and round kicks. Thank you for your time.
Answer Wade,
Congratulations on beginning your Tae Kwon Do career.
I would talk to your instructor first. He/she will have an idea for when you'll be ready to compete outside the school.
WTF and ITF are two totally different fighting sports with very different rules. I would pick between the two and focus your efforts on one.
As for the belt level and experience, there are beginners divisions in most local and regional tournaments. Again, your instructor will be able to assist you in locating tournaments that would be great for you to compete in.
