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: 8/16/2007 Subject: most important techniques
Question hello sir,
my name is praveen,23 years old,been practicing taekwondo for the past 14 years,initially i was practicing itf,then for the past 5 years im practicing in wtf.here i find roundhouse kick as the primary weapon.,whereas spinning kick is my favourite.could u please tell me the basic and important techniques used here in wtf sparring.and also could u tell me about the basic effective feinting and footwork used in this sparring.
the techniques im currently concentrating are:
1.direct roundhouse
2.junjin step roundhouse
3.whojin step roundhouse
4.parambil roundhouse
5.back heel kick
6.spinning kick
what else should i do to improve my sparring?
Answer Praveen,
The most widely used kicks in Olympic TKD are round kick, fast kick, cut or push kick and double kick. Other kicks often used include back kick, axe kick, wheel kick.
The basic kicks should be practiced repeatedly as well as knowing the counters for each kick.
Spinning kicks should be used with caution and only when you have trapped you opponent.
As for improving your sparring there are many different aspects of training which can help you become a better TKD fighter.
Make sure you have a strong conditioning base. Running, jumping rope and completing rounds on a heavy bag are good ways to work on conditioning and stamina.
Working techniques and skills can be done by yourself or with a partner. Partner training is great because you can use real time scenarios and work on the different timing and distance involved in the sport.
Start with this and let me know your progress.
