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
Question What are some of the mental and physical weak points one should be aware of while fighting?
Answer Max:
Thanks for the question.
Physical weakness can be over come with proper training and recovery time. Weaknesses to look for are conditioning, muscle development and tactical/ technique deficiencies.
As I stated, these can all be developed with the proper training program.
As for mental weakness, training and conditioning play a significant role in the mental aspect of a competitor. If an athlete is training consistently, seeing advancement in conditioning and techniques, they will most likely have a higher confidence level than someone who lacks the discipline to train consistently.
Another aspect of mental preparation is mental toughness. I've seen many athletes look good kicking paddles and hitting a heavy bag, but get to competition and freeze, fall apart or get so nervous they can't execute the game plan. There are many different ways to overcome the tournament jitters. You have to do what's best for you. Listening to music and meditation or two used by many top athletes.
A way to practice before you even get to the tournament is to simulate real tournament scenarios. If you practice as if you are there, when the time comes it will be no different then when you practice.
This takes discipline and work!
When you are resting or recovering from training visualizing the tournament, what chest protector color you will be, what techniques you and your opponent will throw and the sounds and smells you will experience will all help in the preparation for tournament fighting.
We encourage all of our athletes to use the techniques I've shared with you.
