Conditioning is one aspect of MMA which is present in every workout. Whether we are hitting the bag, throwing a dummy, using focus mitts, or rolling everything is non stop. The less you rest the more you improve your stamina.
Today we were pummeling and looking for take downs. My shoulders do NOT like pummeling but it is a necessity when we are fighting, so, I have to learn how to do it effectively. The take down tournament at the end of class acted as conditioning for the day. Winner stays in to face as many people as possible.
Key things to improve upon:
Take downs
Hip turning over for round kicks
Side kick mechanics
Cross
Fights are probably going to happen at the end of February or beginning of March. Asylum show is Feb and another promotion is March.
We need a new space and a better schedule. Dedication leads to domination.
(weight is 179 this morning)
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us and of course this will impact my training. With the team shooting to compete in Jan/Feb my goal is to get to 175 by my Christmas in July in December party on Dec. 11. This way at least my weight will be good should I falter at Christmas dinner. Having it after my birthday will be fine, I don't need to drink. My grappling is getting better and now that I have returned to contact at least the ring rust will get shaken off quickly.
Can't wait for my schedule to improve so I can attend fight nights on Fridays. Rib feels good, even when it gets hit and laid on. It is sore but I have dealt with aches and pains my whole life, what's one more.
John's fight is the day before Thanksgiving in AC. Can't wait. GO INNERG
Can't wait for my schedule to improve so I can attend fight nights on Fridays. Rib feels good, even when it gets hit and laid on. It is sore but I have dealt with aches and pains my whole life, what's one more.
John's fight is the day before Thanksgiving in AC. Can't wait. GO INNERG
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Its all coming together. . .
The Cage is coming together nicely. We have a splash for the website up, www.NYCtheCage.com, and the full website is coming soon. I will be in charge of all things internet (Twitter, Facebook, Blog, etc) and there is some pretty cool stuff planned. I want us to be head and shoulders above the other gyms in the area. We will offer training like no other and communication that is unparalleled.
Floor mats should be in by the end of the week and The Cage will be in by the end of the month. Walls are painted, awesome red and gray color scheme (big fan!).
Can't wait to be healed up so I can have fight night. Slowly but surely things are coming together, couldn't be happier.
Floor mats should be in by the end of the week and The Cage will be in by the end of the month. Walls are painted, awesome red and gray color scheme (big fan!).
Can't wait to be healed up so I can have fight night. Slowly but surely things are coming together, couldn't be happier.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
BBQ ribs are way better than injured ones
I usually rebound from injury pretty fast. Have never broken anything, thankfully. About two weeks ago I caught John's spinning back kick to the right side just below my armpit. Aside from knocking the wind out of me it was the single more painful thing I have ever felt. The good news was that nothing was broken, no bruising and minimal swelling assured this. The bad news was on the low end I would have to avoid contact for at least a month. Guess fighting at the beginning of Nov is out of the question. I wanted to work on my technique anyway but not like this. Missing training is not conducive to my personality. I need it, like a drug. I have too much free time and nothing to do with it. I have been going to the gym just to WATCH. Looks like I might be able to participate starting next week. THANK GOD!!
On a separate note, I will be taking over Twitter and Blog updates for The Cage. Apparently, me being on Facebook, FourSquare, etc actually caught the eye of my coaches and they were going to approach me, but I beat them to it. NYC The Cage is going big time baby!
TEAM INNERG!!!
On a separate note, I will be taking over Twitter and Blog updates for The Cage. Apparently, me being on Facebook, FourSquare, etc actually caught the eye of my coaches and they were going to approach me, but I beat them to it. NYC The Cage is going big time baby!
TEAM INNERG!!!
Monday, September 20, 2010
I'M BACK
After a couple months away from posting I make my triumphant return. I had my first MMA fight on September 11 in Atlantic City. I won by unanimous decision 29-28. It was, quite possibly, the best feeling I have ever felt in my life. I thank all my family and friends to supported me, my team and coaches who trained me, and my opponent, Robert Pugh, for a fantastic fight. See you all in The Cage.
Check me out on Twitter for more frequent updates: PrgThruAggressn
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Spinning heel kick? Don't mind if I do!
Tuesday are my favorite days. Have I said that before? Doesn't make it any less true. KB leads into Boxing (with X), then we have KB 2 and SPARRING! 3.5 hours of fun.
Working today on more refined techniques and speed was my goal. Frederik even commented on my improved speed during boxing. I believe the quote was, "Damn, I can't get over how fast you got." I am starting to notice the footwork needed to land combinations.
For example, on a 1-1-3 (body), 3 (head), 5 it took me almost the full 4 min to figure out why my uppercut had no power. Once I remembered to recoil after the hook I laid into the focus mitt with a solid THWACK! It isn't as fast as what I was doing but it is much more effective. Causing my body to move allows for better positioning and helps me avoid an answer, kind of like a slip. I showed Frederik and he concurred that was the reason neither of us had any power in our uppercut. I hope he gets a fight soon, he needs it.
In kickboxing we learned how to throw a spinning heel kick. I might be in love. I would be lyng if I said I didn't throw some while sparring (3 actually). If I can learn to throw them faster I might have another weapon in my arsenal, watch out!
The first sparring session since my fight went well. I saw,more,openings and tried to string together combinations, even the body kick-cross combo (it keeps working). Because I am sparring beginners Sifu wants me to back off when I am overwelming them but understand what I would throw should it be a real fight.
Improvements:
Spinning heel hook, side kick flexibility, footwork
Positives:
Learned a new kick, "fight vision" continues to improve
Working today on more refined techniques and speed was my goal. Frederik even commented on my improved speed during boxing. I believe the quote was, "Damn, I can't get over how fast you got." I am starting to notice the footwork needed to land combinations.
For example, on a 1-1-3 (body), 3 (head), 5 it took me almost the full 4 min to figure out why my uppercut had no power. Once I remembered to recoil after the hook I laid into the focus mitt with a solid THWACK! It isn't as fast as what I was doing but it is much more effective. Causing my body to move allows for better positioning and helps me avoid an answer, kind of like a slip. I showed Frederik and he concurred that was the reason neither of us had any power in our uppercut. I hope he gets a fight soon, he needs it.
In kickboxing we learned how to throw a spinning heel kick. I might be in love. I would be lyng if I said I didn't throw some while sparring (3 actually). If I can learn to throw them faster I might have another weapon in my arsenal, watch out!
The first sparring session since my fight went well. I saw,more,openings and tried to string together combinations, even the body kick-cross combo (it keeps working). Because I am sparring beginners Sifu wants me to back off when I am overwelming them but understand what I would throw should it be a real fight.
Improvements:
Spinning heel hook, side kick flexibility, footwork
Positives:
Learned a new kick, "fight vision" continues to improve
Friday, June 11, 2010
Post (First) Fight Thoughts
This past week has been a blur. Let’s recap.
I am 1-0 after my first fight. I delivered a TKO in the third round via a body kick-cross combo. I didn’t come back to southpaw after throwing the left body kick but rather planted my foot right next to my opponent and unleashed a right cross. This was possible, mostly, because when I first started training at Fit 2 Fight I learned how to throw my punches in the orthodox stance. Fighting southpaw was a tactical decision, messes up my opponents and allows me to utilize the fact that I can kick with both of my legs pretty equally.
I knew that the fight would be a milestone. I would come out of it with a different perspective on fighting than before. I came out of the dressing room knowing I was not going to throw any head kicks, Ahmed said that specifically. He wanted me to stay in my comfort zone and not do anything too risky.
When the bell sounded I came out ready to throw the first punch. I think the first thing that landed was a foot jab. I attempted to keep him back from me with foot jabs and regular jabs. I was moving well and only once did he get a solid shot in. It was a left hook that hit me on the right side, a good punch. I took it and came right back at him with a short 1-2 combination. I attempted some leg kicks but it was mostly to gauge my distance. At the end of the first round I could tell he was far more tired than I was.
The second round slowed a bit, mostly because of my opponent. He kept getting in close and clinching me while trying to uppercut or jab out. At one point I threw a hook and he came in at the same time. My bicep caught him on the head and aside from my shin it was the only thing that hurt the next day. I kept my hands up during the clinches until the ref broke us up. I landed more body shots, right to the ribs while in the clinch and some decent crosses. At the end of the round I hit him with a stiff jab that flung his head back. He had his hands down and I heard his corner yell at him, “It’s a FUCKING FIGHT.” The third round was where I would have to end it.
I came out with a plan to attack his body. I knew that the left body kick was open because he was tired. I landed one and followed with a missed hook. I threw another and kept my stance, waited half a second for him to open his hands, then unleashed the cross. I saw his eyes roll back as his feet gave out from under him. Once he hit the floor I jogged over to a neutral corner. When the ref waved his hands it was clear the fight was over.
I was ecstatic. I actually saw the weakness of my opponent, developed a game plan, saw my opening and executed. I had never seen any openings while sparring John or Ahmed, probably because they are far and few between. But the adrenaline helped me focus and actually made me more controlled. My family and friends went nuts. I saw immediately that at least 4 of them rushed up to the ring; my dad, Pat, Gerry, and Bill. Along with my corner, Victor and Ahmed, they were all freaking out more than I was. I just wanted my gloves off so my hands could be raised and I could let it all sink in.
People asked me if I had an adrenaline dump afterwards. Being on such a high from the TKO, being with my family and friends and reveling in the win may have cause other people to crash but not me. I went out and celebrated with everyone who was willing. I finally went to bed at around 5 am.
I already notice a change in myself. This week while doing boxing partner work my hands went instinctively back to my face for protection. They were planted firmly on my jaw no matter what the combination called for. It is probably the first instinctual thing I am doing as a fighter. In my mind, that is a good thing. Defense should come naturally. This way I can protect myself and counter my opponent.
Sifu could not be there but he sent me a text. It read, “Now you can see what we all saw.” Now the real journey begins. I know that I can flip the switch and attack my opponent, let’s just hope the next one ends a bit sooner. It is time to get back in the gym and hit the streets for some cardio.
Improvements:
Stepping out on round kicks, flexibility for head kick possibilities, conditioning
Positives:
TKO Round 3, saw weaknesses, body kicks and punches landed hard, NO MERCY
I am 1-0 after my first fight. I delivered a TKO in the third round via a body kick-cross combo. I didn’t come back to southpaw after throwing the left body kick but rather planted my foot right next to my opponent and unleashed a right cross. This was possible, mostly, because when I first started training at Fit 2 Fight I learned how to throw my punches in the orthodox stance. Fighting southpaw was a tactical decision, messes up my opponents and allows me to utilize the fact that I can kick with both of my legs pretty equally.
I knew that the fight would be a milestone. I would come out of it with a different perspective on fighting than before. I came out of the dressing room knowing I was not going to throw any head kicks, Ahmed said that specifically. He wanted me to stay in my comfort zone and not do anything too risky.
When the bell sounded I came out ready to throw the first punch. I think the first thing that landed was a foot jab. I attempted to keep him back from me with foot jabs and regular jabs. I was moving well and only once did he get a solid shot in. It was a left hook that hit me on the right side, a good punch. I took it and came right back at him with a short 1-2 combination. I attempted some leg kicks but it was mostly to gauge my distance. At the end of the first round I could tell he was far more tired than I was.
The second round slowed a bit, mostly because of my opponent. He kept getting in close and clinching me while trying to uppercut or jab out. At one point I threw a hook and he came in at the same time. My bicep caught him on the head and aside from my shin it was the only thing that hurt the next day. I kept my hands up during the clinches until the ref broke us up. I landed more body shots, right to the ribs while in the clinch and some decent crosses. At the end of the round I hit him with a stiff jab that flung his head back. He had his hands down and I heard his corner yell at him, “It’s a FUCKING FIGHT.” The third round was where I would have to end it.
I came out with a plan to attack his body. I knew that the left body kick was open because he was tired. I landed one and followed with a missed hook. I threw another and kept my stance, waited half a second for him to open his hands, then unleashed the cross. I saw his eyes roll back as his feet gave out from under him. Once he hit the floor I jogged over to a neutral corner. When the ref waved his hands it was clear the fight was over.
I was ecstatic. I actually saw the weakness of my opponent, developed a game plan, saw my opening and executed. I had never seen any openings while sparring John or Ahmed, probably because they are far and few between. But the adrenaline helped me focus and actually made me more controlled. My family and friends went nuts. I saw immediately that at least 4 of them rushed up to the ring; my dad, Pat, Gerry, and Bill. Along with my corner, Victor and Ahmed, they were all freaking out more than I was. I just wanted my gloves off so my hands could be raised and I could let it all sink in.
People asked me if I had an adrenaline dump afterwards. Being on such a high from the TKO, being with my family and friends and reveling in the win may have cause other people to crash but not me. I went out and celebrated with everyone who was willing. I finally went to bed at around 5 am.
I already notice a change in myself. This week while doing boxing partner work my hands went instinctively back to my face for protection. They were planted firmly on my jaw no matter what the combination called for. It is probably the first instinctual thing I am doing as a fighter. In my mind, that is a good thing. Defense should come naturally. This way I can protect myself and counter my opponent.
Sifu could not be there but he sent me a text. It read, “Now you can see what we all saw.” Now the real journey begins. I know that I can flip the switch and attack my opponent, let’s just hope the next one ends a bit sooner. It is time to get back in the gym and hit the streets for some cardio.
Improvements:
Stepping out on round kicks, flexibility for head kick possibilities, conditioning
Positives:
TKO Round 3, saw weaknesses, body kicks and punches landed hard, NO MERCY
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
June 4th
Bring it on. Weight is on point. Training is going well. Cardio is good. Friends and family are out for support. Next post will be after the fight. Hopefully with pictures and video.
Leave it in the ring and out of the judges hands.
Leave it in the ring and out of the judges hands.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Psychosis
This Monday Sifu sent me a text that read the following, "You are on for the fight." Those 6 words had an effect on me, to say the least. I sent out an invite and email to my friends and family letting them know the details. I have no idea what time I am fighting but I really don't care. I have been training every day, with some very experienced teammates. John and Ahmed are very skilled and fantastic teachers. They have helped me step me game up to a new level in the past few days. I have so many things to work on but anyone who knows me knows how much I love a challenge.
Tuesday during sparring I gave people a glimpse inside my head. After Ahmed connected with some sort of punch I pivoted out, slammed my gloves together, and yelled something intelligible. Immediately I overhead the "calm down, take it easy, relax" typical banter.
I will start by saying that few people have seen me train intensely. I push myself every day, that goes without question but sometimes, every once in a while, a switch goes off inside, and I become consumed with something. Do not mistake this for a clouded, veil of emotion that prevents me from seeing what is before me. This is a clearing of my mind. A way to expel the cobwebs and distractions. I am sure I get a "look" in my eyes, although no one has ever told me nor seen it myself. What I can say is this. . . stay away. Don't come at me with a lot of talk. None of this, "Adam do this" or "Adam relax." It serves a purpose you cannot fully understand.
I am my biggest critic. I have pushed myself for long enough, alone, to know this. I know what works for me and what doesn't. Don't confuse me screaming, pounding my fists, or any other typical showing of "losing control" as just that. It is, in fact, the opposite. I know I can be better than I am today. And tomorrow I will be better still. Call it passion, call it attention seeking, but do not call it weakness. Believe me, when you hear me clear the air, know that I am focused. I become a man possessed, obsessed with bettering myself in any aspect.
I have been called many things. Crazy, an asshole (most common), loud, obnoxious but all of those things carry an air of negativity from the announcer. I take those negative things and flip them. I let them fuel me. No one can push themselves harder, faster, longer than I. Striving for perfection is what causes us to be better people. When you settle for mediocrity, you have already lost the battle.
Psychosis is defined as a loss of contact with reality. In the ring is where my reality will be realized. My screams and yells, my barks and outlandish behavior are evidence of a war, a reality you are not a part of.
This is my psychosis, I embrace it.
Tuesday during sparring I gave people a glimpse inside my head. After Ahmed connected with some sort of punch I pivoted out, slammed my gloves together, and yelled something intelligible. Immediately I overhead the "calm down, take it easy, relax" typical banter.
I will start by saying that few people have seen me train intensely. I push myself every day, that goes without question but sometimes, every once in a while, a switch goes off inside, and I become consumed with something. Do not mistake this for a clouded, veil of emotion that prevents me from seeing what is before me. This is a clearing of my mind. A way to expel the cobwebs and distractions. I am sure I get a "look" in my eyes, although no one has ever told me nor seen it myself. What I can say is this. . . stay away. Don't come at me with a lot of talk. None of this, "Adam do this" or "Adam relax." It serves a purpose you cannot fully understand.
I am my biggest critic. I have pushed myself for long enough, alone, to know this. I know what works for me and what doesn't. Don't confuse me screaming, pounding my fists, or any other typical showing of "losing control" as just that. It is, in fact, the opposite. I know I can be better than I am today. And tomorrow I will be better still. Call it passion, call it attention seeking, but do not call it weakness. Believe me, when you hear me clear the air, know that I am focused. I become a man possessed, obsessed with bettering myself in any aspect.
I have been called many things. Crazy, an asshole (most common), loud, obnoxious but all of those things carry an air of negativity from the announcer. I take those negative things and flip them. I let them fuel me. No one can push themselves harder, faster, longer than I. Striving for perfection is what causes us to be better people. When you settle for mediocrity, you have already lost the battle.
Psychosis is defined as a loss of contact with reality. In the ring is where my reality will be realized. My screams and yells, my barks and outlandish behavior are evidence of a war, a reality you are not a part of.
This is my psychosis, I embrace it.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Sparring Party: Part 2
This past Saturday (5/15) was a great turn out for sparring. John brought some of the guys he trains with and I got to work on my San Da. Even though the fight I get, soon hopefully, will be low kicks; I still want to practice San Da. I felt like I was floundering a bit against John (two 3 min rounds) but according to Sifu I actually was doing much better than expected (even Victor made comments on my improvements). I tried my hardest to answer back and not just throw kicks. This came after I was caught many times and taken down. Getting slammed on the mat has a way of resonating points made by your corner. Near the end of the second round, although exhausted, I managed to avoid one take down with a sprawl and got in a few shots of my own. I literally rolled out of the ring and rested until I got in another 2 rounds with one of John's friends, also named John.
All total I did 6, 3 minute, rounds. The rest was only 30 sec which definitely showed how much conditioning I need. Which is fine, I just need to find time to run.
Monday I got the gym early and did a mile on the treadmill at 7:30 pace and then did 5-30 sec HIIT, with the final one at 15% incline (lots of fun). Along with about 5 rounds of bag work before MMA.
Tuesday, started of with 10 rounds of bag work then boxing (with X) and Kickboxing 2. We worked on low kick defense and then sparred. I was pretty tired after classes and it showed during sparring. At one point, I got hit (not especially hard) and stopped for a second, thinking I got my bell rung. Sifu said if that happens to just shake it off and look ahead as if to say "Bring it on." I think I was just tired and the shock of getting hit kinda "took the fight" out of me. However, I did not let that happen again so in fact it put the fight in me.
I could not answer Ahmed in the first 2 rounds, whenever he kicked me. I got frustrated and angry during the third round after Sifu kept telling me to answer. My response "He's too fucking far away." His comeback, "Then move closer." Simple yet effective. I, more or less, said "Fuck it" in my head and just moved in; blocking kicks until I was close enough to box. I would hit him and then move back out, eating some kicks and punches but also giving some of my own. I ended the round much better than I started and then moved on to another opponent. After Ahmed I sparred just 2 rounds with a new person, Greg (?), who wanted to try it out. I worked on answering and distance as well as defense (per Sifu's recommendation).
Hopefully, my opponent will be somewhere in the middle of Greg and Ahmed. Either way, I cannot wait on my fight. I told Sifu to contact the promoter and tell them that I will take the low kick fight. Why not take what is offered. Get it out of the way. Then move on to the next fight after a good showing in this one. At least it will give me more time to work on my clinch, take-downs, and wrestling.
Improvements:
Take down defense, clinch, answering kicks with punches, distance/range, setting up kicks with punches
Positives:
Conditioning is better, sprawl looks good (when I use it), Improved greatly from last week
All total I did 6, 3 minute, rounds. The rest was only 30 sec which definitely showed how much conditioning I need. Which is fine, I just need to find time to run.
Monday I got the gym early and did a mile on the treadmill at 7:30 pace and then did 5-30 sec HIIT, with the final one at 15% incline (lots of fun). Along with about 5 rounds of bag work before MMA.
Tuesday, started of with 10 rounds of bag work then boxing (with X) and Kickboxing 2. We worked on low kick defense and then sparred. I was pretty tired after classes and it showed during sparring. At one point, I got hit (not especially hard) and stopped for a second, thinking I got my bell rung. Sifu said if that happens to just shake it off and look ahead as if to say "Bring it on." I think I was just tired and the shock of getting hit kinda "took the fight" out of me. However, I did not let that happen again so in fact it put the fight in me.
I could not answer Ahmed in the first 2 rounds, whenever he kicked me. I got frustrated and angry during the third round after Sifu kept telling me to answer. My response "He's too fucking far away." His comeback, "Then move closer." Simple yet effective. I, more or less, said "Fuck it" in my head and just moved in; blocking kicks until I was close enough to box. I would hit him and then move back out, eating some kicks and punches but also giving some of my own. I ended the round much better than I started and then moved on to another opponent. After Ahmed I sparred just 2 rounds with a new person, Greg (?), who wanted to try it out. I worked on answering and distance as well as defense (per Sifu's recommendation).
Hopefully, my opponent will be somewhere in the middle of Greg and Ahmed. Either way, I cannot wait on my fight. I told Sifu to contact the promoter and tell them that I will take the low kick fight. Why not take what is offered. Get it out of the way. Then move on to the next fight after a good showing in this one. At least it will give me more time to work on my clinch, take-downs, and wrestling.
Improvements:
Take down defense, clinch, answering kicks with punches, distance/range, setting up kicks with punches
Positives:
Conditioning is better, sprawl looks good (when I use it), Improved greatly from last week
Monday, May 10, 2010
Leave it to the experts
The main concern most people voice, when they learn I am training for MMA, is safety. This is an excerpt from “Blood in the Cage” by L. Jon Wertheim explaining the difference between boxing, “The Sweet Science”, and MMA.
While boxers don’t battle in a steel cage or punch opponents when they are on the ground, they do something much more perilous; they trade head shots for three-minute rounds. Factor in sparring sessions, and the cumulative effect is devastating. If Muhammad Ali, the sport’s most decorated champion, is an uncomfortable reminder of boxing's brutality, there are thousands of others who share his fate.
Mixed martial arts might involve more blood and broken bones, but repeated head trauma is not part of the equation. A downed fighter isn’t given a standing eight count to ‘clear the cobwebs’ before his opponent delivers more blows to the head; rather, he can take the fight to the ground and ward off punches with wrestling moves. A staggering fighter can clutch and grab all he wants. And if he’s truly in dancer, he can tap out without being stigmatized as a coward. What’s more, the average boxing match is more than three times as long as the average MMA fight. “You’re going to see worse cuts in MMA than in boxing, especially with longer rounds, and there are more knockouts,’ says Dr. Margaret Goodman, past chairwoman of the Nevada State Athletics Commission’s Medical Advisory Board. ‘But overall, is it safer than boxing? I think so. Absolutely. You don’t have ten rounds of guys taking shots to the head.’
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Painting the town Red
Even though I have given up drinking while training for my fight I still go out. Last night was Cinco De Mayo and Amanda was in town from San Fransico, I was obligated to go out. I met up with some HS friends, Bill I have known since I was 7, and Amanda's sister Lisa. Everyone kept asking "When is your fight? I can't wait to see you fight. Tell me about your fight. I know you are going to win." What I have come to realize is two things.
First, my friends are really excited to watch me fight. I have heard everything from "Dude you are crazy in real life I can't imagine you in the ring," to "You are just going to go nuts on whoever you face." In every conversation I have with friends or strangers it is only a matter of time before someone asks about an update on the fight date. I wish I had an answer. The only person who is more excited about this then them. . . is me. I want to thank everyone in advance for their support. You will all know as SOON as I do when my fight is.
Secondly, I have come to realize that I want to fight not just to win or to prove myself. I want to fight because it is the next logical step in my training. I have amassed enough skills in the gym to finally use them during practical application (fighting another person). I am eager to test myself against another method. To push myself harder. I overheard a conversation yesterday that John was having with Les. He was telling him that if he wins and beats someone he learns less than if he loses. As good as you are you learn more from losing to someone who is better than by beating someone who is worse. You improve more from a loss than from a victory. As sweet as a victory would be, and that's what I am shooting for, I do not fear a loss. I will learn from the experience no matter the outcome. I just want it to happen.
First, my friends are really excited to watch me fight. I have heard everything from "Dude you are crazy in real life I can't imagine you in the ring," to "You are just going to go nuts on whoever you face." In every conversation I have with friends or strangers it is only a matter of time before someone asks about an update on the fight date. I wish I had an answer. The only person who is more excited about this then them. . . is me. I want to thank everyone in advance for their support. You will all know as SOON as I do when my fight is.
Secondly, I have come to realize that I want to fight not just to win or to prove myself. I want to fight because it is the next logical step in my training. I have amassed enough skills in the gym to finally use them during practical application (fighting another person). I am eager to test myself against another method. To push myself harder. I overheard a conversation yesterday that John was having with Les. He was telling him that if he wins and beats someone he learns less than if he loses. As good as you are you learn more from losing to someone who is better than by beating someone who is worse. You improve more from a loss than from a victory. As sweet as a victory would be, and that's what I am shooting for, I do not fear a loss. I will learn from the experience no matter the outcome. I just want it to happen.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Take This Down
So I missed the open MMA class on Monday but was told that I didn't "miss" much. Tuesday was fun, although my sleep schedule was completely messed up by the overnights and I felt like shit. I did feel better after but during was rough going. Definitely hard to focus and my stamina was most certainly lacking. Working on clinch work at the end was fun and I cannot wait to use it.
MMA today was good, the first 5 exercises of the 300 Workout were PR'ed, while the PR's I made last week in the last 5 were only 1 or 2 seconds faster. My overall time was a bit slower only because I had to remind Xavier what the drills were. We then did a short grappling competition. X slammed me on my head during a guillotine choke and I got my first stinger since RHS Football. Ahhh the memories. I was a little dazed but mostly it helped sink in the choke so I had to submit.
Sparring has been sparse at the gym as of late and I hope people stick to coming when they say they will. I need to get work in using all the techniques in a real situation before my fight. I haven't sparred in a few weeks and I know I am rusty. Hopefully this Saturday will be different.
Improvements:
Take downs, not getting caught in a guillotine, stepping out on round kicks, EATING PLAN!!!!
Positives:
Improvements on 6 of the 300 exercises, got the "skaters" drill down on the balance ball, bought a bike and taking it EVERYWHERE
MMA today was good, the first 5 exercises of the 300 Workout were PR'ed, while the PR's I made last week in the last 5 were only 1 or 2 seconds faster. My overall time was a bit slower only because I had to remind Xavier what the drills were. We then did a short grappling competition. X slammed me on my head during a guillotine choke and I got my first stinger since RHS Football. Ahhh the memories. I was a little dazed but mostly it helped sink in the choke so I had to submit.
Sparring has been sparse at the gym as of late and I hope people stick to coming when they say they will. I need to get work in using all the techniques in a real situation before my fight. I haven't sparred in a few weeks and I know I am rusty. Hopefully this Saturday will be different.
Improvements:
Take downs, not getting caught in a guillotine, stepping out on round kicks, EATING PLAN!!!!
Positives:
Improvements on 6 of the 300 exercises, got the "skaters" drill down on the balance ball, bought a bike and taking it EVERYWHERE
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Just Me, Myself, and I
I got my schedule changed around for the next two weeks of work and I am going to miss a lot of regular classes. No classes at all tomorrow or Monday due to the fact that I have to do two overnight shifts. NO MMA!!!! Monday is an open class they are offering and I will be missing it! Oh well, guess that means I get to work out on my own, not a new thing for me.
I have made the decision that I will be doing bag work, solo, during KB1 classes. I will get more out of it and I won’t need to depend on other people to keep the workouts intense. Sifu also said that working the bag will be good to get my rhythm down and to see which way combinations should flow because the bag will move with me.
Working on kick catches and throws yesterday was very helpful. I like the double leg almost as much as the hip toss. Something about seeing a person go up and over then slam to the ground, that is very satisfying. “Don’t let them hit you more than twice without an answer of some kind.” Sparring is going to be very different on Saturday, I promise!
MMA today started a little late but I got the 300 workout done in my fastest overall time yet. I felt like shit at the beginning but awesome at the end. I need to remember that no matter how bad I feel before the gym I always, ALWAYS, feel better after. We worked on another warm-up routine and then drilled take-downs. I need to remember to use my opponent’s momentum against them. I wish I had someone to drill with outside of class. Maybe I can just go out there and mix it up with some randoms.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Off Week, not in a good way.
This is what my life has been reduced to, going to work and then training. Planning my meals and sleeping are the most fun things I do. I could not be happier!!!
I realized this week that although I am physically fit (best shape of my life) my mental fitness needs some work. I had three "breakdowns" this week in terms of meals. I prepared as best I could for the tempting cookies and candy that work presents but I folded Monday and Wednesday. My body is not used to eating so much sugar and it reacted, unfavorably. I felt like SHIT during the following days. That is especially bad because Tuesday and Thursday are my hardest workout days. The one thing which saves me is that I have not really gained any weight as a result. I have maintained. I still have enough time to make the weight I need to. I, admittedly, fantasize about what I will be eating the days/week following my fight. First stop. . . Beer Garden, win or lose.
I would also like to answer the numerous questions of my family and friends about the information. Apparently, many people are interested in seeing me fight. Not sure if they want to see me hit someone or get hit (as neither have happened).
I have been lucky my entire life in one crucial aspect. My parents. Both Kathy and my dad have been hands down my biggest fans while playing soccer, football or running track. They would come to every game and meet that they could. This is the first thing I have undertaken in my life where I do not have their support. It feels odd. I know that Kathy won't be at any of my fights, ever. She just can't stand to watch them. And my dad used to pick my brain about everything track related and listen intently as I droned on and on about meaningless small details of sprinting. Now, he just closes up and has a disapproving look on his face whenever the topic of fighting comes up. I think the lack of support comes from not understanding. I hope that IF they do make it to a fight they will see it is not as barbaric as they think it is now.
While on the topic of fight day. I cannot wait. I am amped beyond amped. I feel like I have turned a corner in my training and I want to "test my metal" against a real opponent. Time to get the conditioning up so I can go all out for the three rounds. RUNNING HERE I COME!! I need to press Sifu about when my fight date is so that way I can request off of work. I would be miserable if I had to pull out at the last minute because I have to work 3 hours on a Saturday/Fight Day.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Work (out) Week
This week was eventful, so let's break it down in list form day by day.
Monday:
John showed up late to class so Les, myself and Alison rolled. Les called me out first and I was more than happy to oblige. We grappled for about 6 minutes until he got me in a arm triangle and I tapped. I was EXHAUSTED after just 6 minutes. John showed up and we learned how to do a flow drill. It works in this manner. Person 1 takes Person 2 to the ground and attempts a submission. Person 2 lets the take down happen but explodes out of the submission attempt, which Person 1 allows. Person 2 then takes on the role of Person 1 and Person 3 takes on the role of Person 2. It was fun, I just need to learn more submissions. My favorites would have to be the Guillotine, Kimura (above), and Rear Naked Choke. Nothing fancy but they are VERY effective.
Tuesday:
Got to class late and stared with Warrior Fit. Went right into boxing which was good because Titus came back today after rehabbing his broken toe. Sparring for Kickboxing was after. Frans, a competitive karate student, sparred with me. I got some good throws in. Realizing being taken down drives the wind and heart out of a person I followed up the throws with kicks and punches. I ended our round with a stiff cross to Frans' chin. We hugged it out at the end and nursed our egos til it was time to work again.
Wednesday:
Went to do the 300 workout during a long lunch break. Finished in about 26 minutes. Need to work on my form during push ups. After the 300 we did 3 minute grappling rounds. The rules here are much like sparring. You try and get your opponent to the ground and submit him. Take downs are 1 point while a submission is 3. First to three points is the winner and continues. I need to learn how to do more submissions from the top or at least set them up from the throws I like to use so much.
Thursday:
Boxing led into Warrior Fit (which I ran due to staff obligations) and then into Kickboxing with Mike. It was a good day all in all. I noticed that even though my hip hurts it does not prevent me from participating in any drills, as it did in the past. Gillian let me know they were awarding me a free personal training session for winning the Workout Challenge a few weeks ago. I split it up into two stretch sessions (30 mins).
Friday:
Stretch session 1 with Sifu. Afterward I felt the best I had in weeks. My hip was pain free walking around the city and I just felt relaxed all over. He suggested I bring a notebook to classes and jot down what hurts and how I hurt it so that he can figure out how to stretch it during our sessions. It is well worth the money it costs and I will definitely do it at least once a month, more as fight day approaches.
News:
Upon talking to Gerry and Pat this weekend about my nutrition plan I am going to post excerpts here for people to review. It will be a multi-part series in which I break down what I have learned and give insight into eating in a more healthy manner.
Positives:
Throws from clinch in sparring, hip pain is dissipating and not preventing workouts
Improvements:
Hands up during kickboxing (Ahmed kicked me in the throat, not fun), notebook at class or near by, keep stretching on my own
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Better Late Than Never
My computer crashed so that's what took so long with the update. Since the last post it has been business as usual. Losing weight is not as challenging as I thought. I saw sub-180 for the first time since High School this past Saturday after sparring and running. This past week was spent training for a few days but I did manage to run 3 days. My word schedule has finally changed which means I can do MMA on Monday and Wednesday (awesome). I need to concentrate on my defense for July because Sifu said he is going to be getting me a "San-Da" kickboxing match. That means there will be kickboxing as well as throws and grappling. The clinch is awesome and I am in love. I personally like using my knees and then ending with a throw.
I sparred with Luch and Xavier on Saturday. I know why they have weight classes. Luch weighs around 250 and Xavier weighs about 220. They threw me pretty easily while I had a hard time throwing them (maybe got X down once). Luch said aside from the take downs I would have won the round with striking due to my kicks. That made me feel good. Also Sifu asked him to attack me with wrestling so that I could work on my takedown defense. I think my sprawl is pretty good but we shall see.
Nothing has changed on the running front. I still love doing it and even got in some sprints before my football game on Sunday. This will definitely help with shedding the pounds. I am consistently below 183 pounds and I hope by this Saturday (4/17) to be consistently below 180.
My weight goals are as follows:
May 1: 175
May 8: 172
May 15: 170
May 22: 168
May 29: 165
June 5- Fight day: 165 +Lifting
Positives:
Running started, dropping weight, not hungry, hip hurts less
Improvements:
Throw Defense, Kicking with good form and power to avoid kick-catches, constant head movement (UFC 112 Frankie Edgar!!!), regular running regimen leading to HIIT
Thursday, April 1, 2010
How soon is too soon?
This week I was given off due to the student being away. That can only mean one thing: TRAIN EVERY DAY!!!
Monday was MMA. The class was small because it is still getting a following. It runs along side the kickboxing and boxing class. We use the ring and they are outside doing bag and partner work. I hope all of the people who watch us roll sign up for the class. It is hands down the best workout available in the gym for one class. We practiced throws, take downs, locks and chokes.
Tuesday was a good day for two reasons. The first being that my hip didn't hurt until KB2. Granted I was in a severe amount of pain at the end while working with Sifu and had to bow out at the end. He helped me with some stretches to increase the flexibility. He mentioned that it was a good thing because my body is doing things it has never done before. It will not hold me back from training. I will just have to be smarter and allow more time to stretch and do more work on my own.
The second thing that happened: Sifu said he is looking for a Kickboxing fight for me . . . soon! The news was broken while Fredrik and I were doing partner work for boxing. Sifu found Fred a fight for the beginning of May. He then, while walking around the corner away from us, mentioned that he had "not forgotten about me" and was looking for a fight for me too. I asked him when and he replied, "Soon." Guess I will have to be more diligent with weight monitoring and running. No way I am fighting at 185. 170 here I come. As can be expected I did not sleep very well that night, just in anticipation for what an amateur kickboxing match would be like.
Wednesday was a great day. MMA was beneficial because I was all alone. I got to work One-on-One with John. We worked on single leg sweep take downs and conditioning our body to take kicks in different places. Then we went through the entire 300 workout. It is 10 different exercises done for 30 reps each. It took me about a half hour. The core focused exercises were the easiest but the ones dealing with my shoulders were the hardest. I will be working on this more than once a week. The drills incorporate legitimate techniques and it is essential to fine tune the movements while doing the drills. After class was finished I purchased my ticket to John's M-1 show in AC for this Saturday. I am pumped. Right now it is Myself, Luciano, and Fredrik headed down to see the match.
Sparring was good. I went two rounds with Fredrik because I was so shot from MMA and the 300. I was not happy with some things but Saturday I will work on them.
Positives:
Hip pain delayed, 300 completed, better round kicks, stretching regimen made on PowerPoint
Improvements:
Technique for 300 exercises, head movement, running
**Videos will post after upload is complete**
Friday, March 26, 2010
Back in the Hiiiiiiiigh (Kick) Life Again
Tuesday was my first day back to train after vacation. It went well. I stretched my hip as much as I could yet it still hurt by the time we got to KB2/Sparring. Classes were easy. There was little to no intensity and a lot of goofing off by the other people there. These kinds of things frustrate me, mostly because I want to train and get better so I can fight while others are just there for fitness. I take it very seriously but I have to remember that some people don't.
When sparring came around the only person who was available was Titus. He is not a fan of kickboxing, prefers boxing, but he indulged me. I think that's the last time he will do that. He lazily threw a back round kick the same time I threw mine. He is orthodox and I am southpaw so when he threw his kick it hit my knee with his toe, fracturing it he later found out. If he had thrown it correctly and with some power it would have been a more bearable contact and he wouldn't have been hurt. I feel bad cause I convinced him to spar but I know its all good.
Wednesday was MMA Grappling with John Salgado. We pummeled a lot, which I am getting better at. He is going to post the 300 Rep workout so we can chart our progress. We practiced some single underhook techniques and even tried a Tee Pee submission (similar to a triangle). I rolled with Les who trains with John on a regular basis. I really enjoy the grappling, it makes sense to me.
Boxing sparring was a different story. I felt like shit for the first two rounds with Luch. I looked at the video (not worth posting) and noticed that I failed to land most of my punches. My range was off. I joked that next time I take vacation I will just stay home and train rather than travel but that might be the case. I then sparred with Rashawn which was better for my combination.
At the end I sparred for two rounds with Eric (amateur?). He has a lot of really good head movement and he hits hard. I got my ass handed to me the first round, getting it topped off with a body shot with 15 sec left that dropped me. WOW, need to work on my core strength so that doesn't happen again. Sifu gave me some pointers and the second round I actually felt like I won. I landed a bunch of hard crosses (odd) and had good movement around the ring. I covered up and tried to keep my head from staying stationary. Also, I felt very confident in my jab footwork. I was stepping to the right very well which helped me keep my base (worked on on Tuesday) and set up my cross.
I feel like after I get hit I get more aggressive. I don't get mad at the person that hit me, I get mad at myself for getting hit and then promise to be more aggressive. I need to learn to flip that switch on my own and keep in mind the first time I get hit,might be the only one that needs to land, if its a KO.
Improvements:
Core Strength, Head Movement, Aggressiveness, Pummeling
Positives:
Conditioning, NEW GEAR (compliments on the boxing shoes), jab footwork
When sparring came around the only person who was available was Titus. He is not a fan of kickboxing, prefers boxing, but he indulged me. I think that's the last time he will do that. He lazily threw a back round kick the same time I threw mine. He is orthodox and I am southpaw so when he threw his kick it hit my knee with his toe, fracturing it he later found out. If he had thrown it correctly and with some power it would have been a more bearable contact and he wouldn't have been hurt. I feel bad cause I convinced him to spar but I know its all good.
Wednesday was MMA Grappling with John Salgado. We pummeled a lot, which I am getting better at. He is going to post the 300 Rep workout so we can chart our progress. We practiced some single underhook techniques and even tried a Tee Pee submission (similar to a triangle). I rolled with Les who trains with John on a regular basis. I really enjoy the grappling, it makes sense to me.
Boxing sparring was a different story. I felt like shit for the first two rounds with Luch. I looked at the video (not worth posting) and noticed that I failed to land most of my punches. My range was off. I joked that next time I take vacation I will just stay home and train rather than travel but that might be the case. I then sparred with Rashawn which was better for my combination.
At the end I sparred for two rounds with Eric (amateur?). He has a lot of really good head movement and he hits hard. I got my ass handed to me the first round, getting it topped off with a body shot with 15 sec left that dropped me. WOW, need to work on my core strength so that doesn't happen again. Sifu gave me some pointers and the second round I actually felt like I won. I landed a bunch of hard crosses (odd) and had good movement around the ring. I covered up and tried to keep my head from staying stationary. Also, I felt very confident in my jab footwork. I was stepping to the right very well which helped me keep my base (worked on on Tuesday) and set up my cross.
I feel like after I get hit I get more aggressive. I don't get mad at the person that hit me, I get mad at myself for getting hit and then promise to be more aggressive. I need to learn to flip that switch on my own and keep in mind the first time I get hit,might be the only one that needs to land, if its a KO.
Improvements:
Core Strength, Head Movement, Aggressiveness, Pummeling
Positives:
Conditioning, NEW GEAR (compliments on the boxing shoes), jab footwork
Saturday, March 20, 2010
California Love
Here in San Diego I have been distracted by plenty of other things besides being inside on a computer and blogging. This week off has been great.
Tuesday was the workout challenge. Gerry came to the gym right from work and took 3 classes. He talked with Gillian about joining up and last we spoke he was seriously considering it. He said it was a great workout. The challenge was awesome. We only had 5 minutes between classes to rest. We did new and more intense exercises for each class. A couple people did all the classes and some even stayed to spar at the end. I did two rounds with only kicks. Its odd when you rely on your punches to set up your kicks and then you don't have them.
My hip felt great mostly because I stretched for 30 minutes prior to class starting. I focused on technique for all the motions to make sure I was doing them correctly so I did not aggravate my injury (yes I consider myself injured not hurt now).
Wednesday I flew out to San Diego. I went for a run and long bike ride upon arrival. Thursday I jumped rope and shadowboxed for a few rounds. Took a bike up to a point on the beach to stretch and then rode back just in time to play football for a couple hours. The picture above is where I stretched. Jealous?
Saturday I woke up ar0und 9 am and did some jump rope pyramids, shadowboxing, and two leg trees with push ups. My hip feels sore (mostly from football) but working it out manages the pain a bit. Tomorrow I will most likely go to play another couple hours of football unless it conflicts with my flight.
Positives:
Hip stretches work, staying active
Improvements:
Getting hungry every1.5 hours rather than every 2.5
Monday, March 15, 2010
Picture me Rollin'
I got my hip checked out today before leaving CT and my IT band is very "closed." I got some stretches to "open" it up and will be working them every day.
Today brought about my first day of grappling/submission wrestling. Thankfully a lot of the class is focused around stretching and conditioning which will help with my IT band issues.
We worked on single leg lifts and basic take down defense. John let us know that we would be learning 10 different exercises for a workout he calls 300's. Each exercise is done 30 times in succession for a total of 300 reps, hence the name (complicated I know). I loved this class and cannot wait for the next one. Stretching on off days and doing the exercises will help with my progression.
Here are videos from this past Saturday's sparring.
3/13/10
Round 1
Round 2
Positives:
IT Band issues diagnosis, ordered personal equipment (headgear, shin guards, etc)
Improvements:
Swim move, single leg lift/take down
Today brought about my first day of grappling/submission wrestling. Thankfully a lot of the class is focused around stretching and conditioning which will help with my IT band issues.
We worked on single leg lifts and basic take down defense. John let us know that we would be learning 10 different exercises for a workout he calls 300's. Each exercise is done 30 times in succession for a total of 300 reps, hence the name (complicated I know). I loved this class and cannot wait for the next one. Stretching on off days and doing the exercises will help with my progression.
Here are videos from this past Saturday's sparring.
3/13/10
Round 1
Round 2
Positives:
IT Band issues diagnosis, ordered personal equipment (headgear, shin guards, etc)
Improvements:
Swim move, single leg lift/take down
**Challenge tomorrow**
Friday, March 12, 2010
Hip, Hop. . . no Horay
Hopefully this is my last Thursday session. Not because I don't like it but because when I get back from CA I am looking forward to being able to work from 9-5 on Monday and Wednesday so I can do multiple classes on those days, including MMA Grappling.
My hip really hurt today. It is an odd pain that is more acute than lasting. It prevents me pivoting or really putting any weight on it while kicking or even punching. I told Sifu about it on Tuesday and he was perplexed as to the cause of it. He mentioned it might be my hips "opening up," which would be a good thing. I might go see Darin on Monday while in CT and take an early train back.
Sifu addressed the class today about something special for next Tuesday. They, the gym, are issuing a challenge (God knows how I love challenges) to all members. Guest instructors will make an appearance for the 4 classes (Kickboxing, Warrior Fit, Boxing, and Kickboxing 2) making sure that members push themselves. Tuesdays I normally do all four classes but this made me very excited. They will also be judging participants and there might be some kind of "prize" awarded. I would be fine with pride and rising to the challenge but a tangible reward? Bring it!
Here is my attempt to load some video from my YouTube account (ProgThruAggression). The videos are from 3-6-10 sparring.
Round 2
Round 3
Round 4
My hip really hurt today. It is an odd pain that is more acute than lasting. It prevents me pivoting or really putting any weight on it while kicking or even punching. I told Sifu about it on Tuesday and he was perplexed as to the cause of it. He mentioned it might be my hips "opening up," which would be a good thing. I might go see Darin on Monday while in CT and take an early train back.
Sifu addressed the class today about something special for next Tuesday. They, the gym, are issuing a challenge (God knows how I love challenges) to all members. Guest instructors will make an appearance for the 4 classes (Kickboxing, Warrior Fit, Boxing, and Kickboxing 2) making sure that members push themselves. Tuesdays I normally do all four classes but this made me very excited. They will also be judging participants and there might be some kind of "prize" awarded. I would be fine with pride and rising to the challenge but a tangible reward? Bring it!
Here is my attempt to load some video from my YouTube account (ProgThruAggression). The videos are from 3-6-10 sparring.
Sparring w/ Ahmed
Round 1Round 2
Round 3
Round 4
Sparring w/ Luch
Round 1
Posititves:
Challenge on Tuesday (3/16), 100 Kicks in 1 minute with left leg
Improvements:
Hip Pain, Footwork
Posititves:
Challenge on Tuesday (3/16), 100 Kicks in 1 minute with left leg
Improvements:
Hip Pain, Footwork
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Weight, its not over
The first weight workout of the week brought some challenges.
- First, I am dumb and read the workout wrong. Completely messed up the inclined bench/Spider-Man Push-Up Super Set. I left out the regular Push-Up entirely. Its OK though cause my mess up caused the exercise to be torture.
- Second, when you pay $20/month for a gym membership you get LOTS of people in the gym who don't know what they are doing. There is lots of standing around and socializing. I feel like I am back in McCann @ Marist. Hands down, my biggest pet peeve in the gym is people who don't clean up after themselves. The dumbbells are slim pickings anyway but when some coiffed up 20 something leaves a set in the corner, far out of view, how are the other people supposed to use them? Enough bitching, here is a dissection of the workout.
Warm Up
Leg Press (M): (15-20)Legs
Frog Jumps (D): (3 sets 12-15 reps) *Worth the looks you get from people while doing them*Single leg extensions (M):(3sets 10-12reps)
Weighted lunge jumps (D): (3sets 15 reps) *I did 2 sets of 30 cause I am smart and can read=pain*
Chest
Inclined press (D): (3-4 sets 10-12 reps)-before each set do 10 spider-man push ups (LOVE! Check the picture above) *Totally fucked this up by combining the following exercise and this one. Imagine if you will; holding each at 90 degrees for 10 sec then exploding up = 1 rep. Very effective in making your arms hate you but not for completing a workout*
Push up hold: (3sets 10reps) *Didn't do these cause I can't read YET AGAIN*
Core
Bridges: (Front 1min, Side 30 sec, 3 sets)
Crunches: (3 sets 15reps)
Side bends: (3 sets 15 reps)
Tonight is Boxing->Warrior Fit->Kickboxing. Love it.
Weight this Morning= 185 lbs
**UPLOAD OF VIDEOS TO YouTube (ProgThruAggression) TONIGHT**
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Knocked Out vs. Knocked Down: Defined
"There is actually very little known about what exactly causes a knockout but many agree it has to do with minor trauma to the brain stem. This usually happens when the head rotates sharply, often caused by a strike. There are three general manifestations of such trauma - the typical knock out which results in a sustained loss of consciousness (comparable to general anesthesia - where the recipient emerges and has lost memory of the event), a "flash" knock out where a very transient loss of consciousness (of less than three seconds) occurs (where the recipient often maintains awareness and memory of the combat) , and lastly a "stunning" where consciousness is maintained despite extremely distorted proprioception, visual fields, and auditory processing. A basic principle of boxing is to defend against this vulnerability by keeping both hands raised about the face and the chin tucked in."- Wikipedia: "Knockout"
"A knockdown occurs when a fighter touches the floor of the ring with any part of his or her body other than his or her feet following a hit. The term is also used if the fighter is hanging on to the ropes, caught between the ropes, or is hanging over the ropes and is unable to fall to the floor and cannot protect him or her self. A knockdown triggers a count by the referee; if the fighter fails the count, then the fight is ended as a K.O. A flash knockdown is a knockdown where the fighter hits the canvas but recovers quickly enough that a count is not started."- Wikipedia: "Knockout"
To correct, on Saturday (3/6/10), it was more of a Flash Knockdown than a Knockout.
"A knockdown occurs when a fighter touches the floor of the ring with any part of his or her body other than his or her feet following a hit. The term is also used if the fighter is hanging on to the ropes, caught between the ropes, or is hanging over the ropes and is unable to fall to the floor and cannot protect him or her self. A knockdown triggers a count by the referee; if the fighter fails the count, then the fight is ended as a K.O. A flash knockdown is a knockdown where the fighter hits the canvas but recovers quickly enough that a count is not started."- Wikipedia: "Knockout"
To correct, on Saturday (3/6/10), it was more of a Flash Knockdown than a Knockout.
Post-Tuesday Blues
Yesterday was a hard Tuesday. Kickboxing made way for Warrior fit (not bad) then boxing crept into Kickboxing 2.
The new layout of the gym allows for lots of bag work which is great because we can get more rounds in rather than switching up on Thai Pads. The downside is the bag moves like a bag and not a person. It does help with timing though, in a different manner though.
Boxing was fun because Titus and I worked in the ring. Ahmed helped me with my hook and my footwork. Sifu's mats came in and they were set up just in time for boxing class. Having mats in the ring makes a world of difference.
Kickboxing brought the beginning of sparring on Tuesday. I went 4 rounds back to back to start after doing some partner work on defending different kicks. The footwork is different for kickboxing and boxing but it is something I need to work on for each. While sparring I tried to throw a kick followed by hand combo and end with a kick. It worked most of the time and I hope more people show up on Saturday who want to spar for kickboxing.
Positives:
4 rounds for sparring and felt fine
Improvements:
Hook- elbow higher, rotate at waist more, General footwork for boxing
Pains:
Knee and hip (feels better at time of posting)
The new layout of the gym allows for lots of bag work which is great because we can get more rounds in rather than switching up on Thai Pads. The downside is the bag moves like a bag and not a person. It does help with timing though, in a different manner though.
Boxing was fun because Titus and I worked in the ring. Ahmed helped me with my hook and my footwork. Sifu's mats came in and they were set up just in time for boxing class. Having mats in the ring makes a world of difference.
Kickboxing brought the beginning of sparring on Tuesday. I went 4 rounds back to back to start after doing some partner work on defending different kicks. The footwork is different for kickboxing and boxing but it is something I need to work on for each. While sparring I tried to throw a kick followed by hand combo and end with a kick. It worked most of the time and I hope more people show up on Saturday who want to spar for kickboxing.
Positives:
4 rounds for sparring and felt fine
Improvements:
Hook- elbow higher, rotate at waist more, General footwork for boxing
Pains:
Knee and hip (feels better at time of posting)
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Cherry Popped: ROCKED
Sparring Saturdays has becoming something I look forward to all week. The chance to see if my skills have progressed further than last week is the only real evaluative tool I have. After filming Brad last week I decided to ask Jessica to film me this week. I remembered when I was learning how to kick, for football, the coach would have me watch video of myself and dissect it. I would be able to see the subtle issues I was having with foot placement and follow through. Fighting is different. I know that I am making BIG mistakes (eating an overhand is a pretty immediate indication) but I have no idea what it looks like. I need to see what it looks like so I can know what it feels like so I can know NOT to do it.
The purpose of these videos is to help me evaluate my technique. They are not ways for me to boost my ego by posting how awesome I am at boxing/kickboxing. As of right now the only people viewing this blog are my friends but maybe later others will find their way over here and give me some tips and possibly learn things themselves. * No videos yet cause they don't want to upload to the blog. I will post them on YouTube and embed them here*
Let the videos speak for themselves. The thinner guy is Ahmed, he is an instructor and pro Kickboxer from Egypt. The taller one is Luciano, he just had his first boxing match a couple weeks ago. I call him Bunny Foo Foo (don’t ask why cause, I really have no idea) and is fast becoming a person I will be training a lot with. As of right now we are the only two signed up for MMA Grappling. Should be interesting with me at 185 and him at 265 (when I get him running he will shed weight like WHOA).
The one video Jess did not film is the one where the fun happened. I was tired in my last round. I tried to sneak one more in so that I could get some work. I should have listened to my Dad’s advice. “When you want to do one more (ski run), don’t. When you say one more that’s when you need to stop. Its in the “one more” run that you get hurt.” I didn’t get hurt, I got . . . knocked out. I was fighting Ahmed and was way more tired than I thought. I had my chin raised and my arms swinging wildly. I heard Sifu in the sorner screaming for me to “ANSWER. THROW BACK.” I just couldn’t. Not from fear of being hit (I really don’t have that) but just from the fact that when I get tired my form, in anything, goes to shit. Sure enough, Ahmed ducted under and caught my chin, which was sitting on a silver platter, and I dropped like a fucking sack to the floor. If you take a look at the first video, he tags me on the left side with a right hook almost immediately. The punch that knocked me out/down hurt way less than that one but it was just so textbook my brain said, “Nope, if you won’t stop you then I will. To the floor with you , you stubborn ass.” **Correction, upon further research what happened would be considered a Flash Knockdown**
One thing I got out of all this is that I need to work on my footwork. I know that but I just don’t know how to or what that means right now. Sifu held mitts for me after we ended the sparring session which really helped with my placement of the cross and not to look “surprised” when someone throws a punch. Also, he is trying to get me to answer. It hasn’t become reflex yet but it needs to if I want to stop becoming a tenderized Pak-steak.
While changing, I asked Ahmed to clarify a statement he made about me being “stubborn.” I wasn’t sure if it was meant as a compliment or an area of improvement. He assured me it was a compliment and a good quality I have. ”You don’t stop. You don’t give up.”
Why would I.
Positives:
Weave, stubbornness
Improvements:
Footwork, keeping my chin down, close off my shoulders in fighting stance
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