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: 10/13/2007 Subject: Preparing for sparring competition in a month
Question Hi,
I have train in taekwondo for about a year and now im preparing for my very first taekwondo sparring competition. I have exactly one month and would like to seek for advices on how i can effectively use this one month to prepare myself. I want to be well prepared in it and give a good fight. As i have been doing long distances running, i think my stamina is of good level. Can you advice me on how i should plan my training programme? where to focus on and etc
For your advice please.
Answer Stanley,
I apologize on the delay of our response.
Congratulations on your training for your fist tournament.
If you've been doing consistent long distance runs, change up to short distance intervals. This is where you'll sprint full out for a certain time or distance then walk or jog at a slower pace for time or distance. Then repeat.
The next several weeks should focus on strategy and timing, making sure you allow yourself time for proper rest and your nutrition is good.
If you have any other questions please feel free to send them our way.
Also, please let us know how you did.
