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 QUESTION:
i am a brown belt at an ATA academy. I really like martial arts and i want to go to a tournament there having in a few months. my question is what are some good ways to start off in a tournament sparring. like what combination? and good ways to get physical condition. thanks in advance Cam
ANSWER: Cam,
I'm sure I understand the first part of the question. What combinations are you referring too? During training or competition?
As for the second question, how old are you? What have you been doing during TKD training and outside the dojang? Do you have any physical limitations or injuries?
I need to know a little more about you before I can give you specific answers to these questions. Competition training would be different for a 7 year old compared to an 18 year old, for example.
If you can answer these questions, I can assist you better.
Here are the basics to training for a competition.
Tae Kwon Do training is always first. We are fighters and we fight. So, make sure your training reflects techniques, combinations and motions you will use during competition.
Second, depending on your age, which I don't know, you can incorporate running, plyometric training and weight training.
These types of training methods can make you stronger and faster.
Finish Strong!
Nathan
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: for competion i need some ideas of how to start off. like my starting now is a sidekick reverse hookkick.im 14 i push myself over my limit. i have no physical injuries.during TKD training i have been sparing, doing forms, weapons training and ground fighting outside of it im a biker and i do a little cardio pushups sit ups ,the basics.
Thank you Nathan,
Cam
Answer Cam,
I apologize for the long delay in returning you follow up question. I was looking at this and though it was the original question. Which we have already answered. I apologize again.
Alright, let's get started.
Your conditioning training and the variety seems good. Make sure it's TKD first. Always!
For the combinations question, use checking and fainting motions to draw your opponent out. (try making them attack first) You can usually find they will throw techniques they are most comfortable with. If you've trained correctly, then you will have counters for each of the basic kicks.
You through a check get the opponent to commit with an attack, and then you counter his attack with kicks you've practiced.
For example, you and your opponent are in a closed stance. Through a front leg check to get him to either through a fast kick or a back leg round kick.
If the fast kick comes you could cover punch and kick on the way out. If the back leg round kick is used. You would execute a pada chagi (back leg round kick) and score to his chest.
