Last Updated on December 18, 2012.
BY: TSMMA Midwood
Q:Tell us about your TSMMA school – what martial arts program does it specialize in? A: Our school in Midwood is proud to be the newest location for Tiger Schulmann’s – the 47th Tiger Schulmann’s school in our organizations proud history of nearly 30 years. We specialize in Mixed Martial Arts: MMA incorporates the techniques of Kickboxing and Jiu-Jitsu into a style that offers the most effective self-defense that can be found anywhere. In addition to self defense, MMA is incredible for building confidence, focus, discipline and physical fitness for all ages.
Q: Tell us about your introduction to the Martial Arts – what made you choose this profession or lifestyle?
A: I was introduced to the Martial Arts, particularly boxing, by my uncles and grandfather at 9 years old. I chose to devote my life to the martial arts because it’s an endless pursuit to improve myself and help others. My own achievements bring me great pride, but helping others achieve brings me a joy that nothing can replace. I always say: “If you want to live a joyful life, help other people”. I’m lucky to be able to do that every day.
Q: Why do you train or instruct? What motivates you? What keeps you going?
A: I train to become the best martial artist and person that I can be. I train because I want to achieve at the highest levels, both on the mat and off. I train because I want to live my life as a doer and not a talker.
Q: Are you actively involved in professional competitions? Do you compete in local, state or national level events?
A: I’m not currently competing, but I have competed numerous times across all the disciplines we teach, Kickboxing, Grappling and MMA. I look forward to getting back in the cage again and I’m proud to be a training partner for my brothers and sisters on the Tiger Schulmann’s fight team.
Q: Martial Arts for Kids – what is your advice for first time parents who would like to try out Tiger Schulmann’s?
A: We are experts at building strong, confident, self-disciplined kids. I believe with all my heart that this is the best program that parents could ever enroll their children in. It builds a foundation of self-confidence that will impact them in every other thing they do in their lives; whether it be in school, a sport, socially, etc. Confident kids are happy kids and confident kids don’t get bullied.
Q: What is your personal favorite style of Martial Arts? Why is it so?
A: At this point, my favorite style of Martial Arts would have to be MMA, but particularly the aspects of Jiu-Jitsu and ground and pound. The hybrid of Boxing, Kickboxing, Wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu and the transitions across those disciplines is endlessly interesting to me. A recent mantra of mine that I picked up from a fellow Sensei is: “get on top, stay on top”. To be able to strike and submit is the best place to be and that’s been my focus of late.
Q: What are your hobbies and interests apart from Martial arts?
A: I love running and cross training. In particular, I enjoy marathon training and adventure races, like the Spartan Race and Tough Mudder series. I’m also a big fan of music and have been playing guitar since the age of 11. When I’m not training, I’m usually spending time with my family and friends or doing something music related.
