There is a stereotype with Mixed Martial Arts, or MMA, that is akin to a comic caricature . Blistered knuckles drag on the floor, over developed muscles burst from the uniform and testosterone drips from its nose like sweat. Like all caricatures, it is an exaggeration that is built on a partial truth and here is where that truth is dispelled.
Like any sport, hobby or art, there are those that are like a bloodhound on a scent. They live and breathe their pastime with more intensity than everyone else, but they are also the exception to the rule. The average Mixed Martial Art student works a day job, has a career, may be a student, a mother or a grandfather. MMA students come in every size, shape, age and gender. There are so many people participating in this sport, that you likely know someone who is training, but they never told you. And if they are a woman, then they may not have wanted to have to explain themselves.
This is Nicky. She is an insurance advisor. She works in a competitive field, where she focuses on delivering the best results for her clients. Some of her workdays extend into the evening and may be followed by an early breakfast meeting. For Nicky, going to N1 Thai at 401 Preston Street in Ottawa, is the best opportunity for her “to burn off a little steam and be with her friends.” When asked about training with men she responded, “we are like family here. Muay Thai is an ancient martial art that begins and ends with respect.” And when you see her kick, it is evident that Nicky can dish out whatever she takes in. “I feel like I have a lot of brothers now that are looking out for me,” she shares. “They help me to be better.”
There are many levels of Muay Thai Kickboxing and unlike most Martial Arts Schools, N1 Thai builds the curriculum to suit the individual. Naaron Fijalkowski is the owner of N1 and when asked about the schools structure said, “It’s really about each persons goals. I studied with Masters in Thailand and learned that everyone needs a combination of group instruction and personal attention to develop skills.” When I asked one of the students what they thought they responded with, “Naaron gives the kind of attention that every student wants. Firm yet supportive”
Shotgun Show…
N1 Thai Boxing Academy at 401 Preston Street in Ottawa is where MMA and Mixed Martial Arts are the vehicle, but personal development is the goal. They can be reached at 613 233 6981
So, you tapped out on your New Years resolution. Just an FYI, over ninety percent of New Years resolutions crash in flames. Obviously a New Years resolution is not the correct motivation. What you really need to uncover is the real reason why you wanted to make a change it in the first place.
At least once every week the average person makes one resolution to improve themselves, to get back into shape or to feel better about themselves. We think of it when our clothes feel a little tight or when we find ourselves pausing for air after a flight of stairs or when we have trouble getting up to speed after lunch.
At those moments we are aware of ourselves in ways that do not make us feel good about who we are, and we make a silent vows to make a change. Our bodies are talking to us, and deep in our minds we know that things are slipping. It is a part of the human condition. Let’s face it, there are a large number of factors that sap our strength. These include the weather, work, school, families, girlfriends, boyfriends, and sometimes all of them at the same time. We use them as excuses to avoid getting in shape, when we should be using them as the reasons TO get in shape.
A New years resolution is about telling everyone else that you are going to make a change. But true motivation is a pact with yourself to improve your well being. If you have done a little internal work, then you know what I have said is true. Now all that you have to do is act upon it.
The obvious benefits are that you will feel better about yourself, you will be able to fight disease more efficiently, you will have fun, you will be stronger, you be more in control, you will be more confident, you will have more stamina, you will meet new people with similar interests, you will, you will, you will. You will be prepared to live your life fully, every single day.
N1 Thai Boxing Academy at 401 Preston Street in Ottawa Ontario is the home of MMA Kickboxing and Muay Thai Boxing in Ottawa. It is a specialized gym that focuses on an individuals goals and helps to coach it’s members to achieve their goals. Mixed Martial Arts is the vehicle, but personal development is the goal.
