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: 3/13/2008 Subject: preparing for a tournament
Question i am a student in a polytechnic, i have 6 year experience in taekwondo , but i have got a tournament coming up by 19th april, there is no dojang in my skoool though i do regular pad work with my friends, how do i go about a correct training programme in order to excel come the d-day,please u gotta give me the tips,i feel im not trainin enough though i feel my kicks are real good but sometimes the motivation is nt there , thank you.
Answer Kingsley,
Thanks for the question.
Since you have a short period of time before the tournament, I would recommend sticking to basic foot work, motions and kicking.
I understand that you don't have a place to train. See if your school has a gym or space you can use to train. If they don't have a heavy bag, purchasing a kicking shield wouldn't be a bad idea.
As for endurance, if you have a solid base of endurance training already, I would recommend intervals of rounds on a heavy bag or shield. Plus, sprint intervals (running) will increase your conditioning for the fight too.
This is a crash course on last minute tournament preparation.
