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: 11/20/2007 Subject: advice for wtf sparring
Question hi, I am trying to get back in shape so i can come back into competitions again. I am a short player (5'6'') and weigh about 145-150 lbs, planning on sparring in fly weight class.
I'm currently a first dan black belt and used to compete, so i know basic of sparring. I though still have somewhat a hard time dealing with tall players, do you have any advice i can do, practice, or anything to deal with this problem?
Also, any good workout advice you can give me to improve my endurance? because just jogging or doing jump rope will get old after awhile.
Thank you for your time, have a good day
Answer Andre,
It's great that you've decided to come back to competing.
To answer the endurance question, I would complete sprints rather than a lot of long distance running. For example, sprint all out for 10 seconds, jog or walk for 10 seconds. If you are at a level below this example, then start slower or make your rest periods longer. There are many different ways to mix up interval training. You can also complete intervals wit your jump rope too.
Fighting taller players can be frustrating but it can also be a lot of fun when you have the right strategy. I've fought many tall players. Most of the opponents I've knockout came from fighting taller players.
The key to fighting tall players is making them throw a kick first then moving in past their range before they can throw their second kick. Taller players take longer to kick. The time it takes to extend and retract is also slower than shorter players. Thus, if you are quick and have great timing, you should be able to execute your attack before they can throw a second or third kick.
The best way to train is with taller players. That's the only way you will gain real time experience.
Best of Luck!
Please check back and let me know how you’re progressing.
