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 hey nathan.
srry im asking u another question.
ummm
for my acl i got patella
instead of hamstring
im a 2nd degree black belt in taekwondo
and i love going to tournaments and sparring
i got surgery about 1 month ago
im 17 years old
and im very confused
i know this guy
who had the exact same surgery as me
and he said now hes back to 100 percent in taekwondo
and i know this other guy
who said that my knee will never be the same again
he said it will feel loose and weak
he told me not to believe what the doctors say
that im never gonna be the same again
i dont know who to believe
im really worried that i will not be able to go back to competing
do you know anything about this?
thanks alot
Answer Tariq,
First, you shouldn't listen to anyone that speaks negative about situations. Being a TKD black belt I'm surprised you would listen to him. You didn't say in your question, but has he ever had surgery on his knees?
The other person that had surgery and is back fighting would probably help you and encourage you through the recovery process. However, every person's situation is different and surgery and recovery times may vary. When it comes to surgery there are general guidelines for recovery times. However, your body will recover as fast as it wants to and that's it. Period. The way to make recovery times shorter is to listen to your doctor!
Obviously, you've read my profile. I've had knee surgery and I'm fighting again. It took a little longer because I tried fighting too quick after surgery. I was on crutches for 14 weeks due to my torn meniscus. (rather than cutting the torn area away, Dr. Griffin stitched it back together) I re-injured my knee and was put on a stricter training protocol with "No" TKD!
Other than none professional opinions, you didn't call your doctor or physical therapist. I asked you to do that.
If you listen to them you're recovery time will be quicker than if you try doing things on your own.
