About
My service stands out as an outlet for people of all ages and sizes to release their energy in a positive and safe manner.
Exercise should always be fun, productive, and meaningful. If it's not, then the results will be painstaking and short lived. So, I focus on creating experiences that keep people coming back for more.
By combining strength and conditioning principles with martial arts training, my students enjoy learning valuable skills while improving their fitness and athleticism at the same time.
I focus on mobility with movements that are efficient, balanced, and powerful at the same time. At the same time, my first priority is to avoid injury at all costs.
There is a very nuanced balanced between pushing a student to be their best while also avoiding injury. This is why it's very important to hire an instructor that has experience with different ages and experience levels.
With my background in kinesiology, strength and conditioning, and martial arts, I am able to provide a fun, productive, and meaningful experience for people of all ages and experience levels.
I enjoy having a positive impact on the way that my students see themselves. The way we move and train has an effect on the way that we think, feel, and behave. So it's very fulfilling to see someone improve the way they interact with the world, due to the way they moved and trained.
Giving students the tools to succeed in life and in competition is very rewarding. I really appreciate being part of the positive transformation process, and I enjoy being the best part of many people's days.
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Ana O.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Each student has their own needs and goals. I always start by setting goals and expectations. This way, we both know what we want from each other.
After the goals are set, we begin slowly, increasing the challenge gradually. I always strive to minimize any trauma in those first 3 or 4 workouts to create positive feelings and establish correct technique.
I always gauge the comfort of the student, to make sure that he or she is experiencing the proper amount of challenge and stress. Once we're past the first few sessions, I will be pushing you to your limits, but not past them. This way, you will stay healthy and you will maximize your growth and expansion.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been coaching wrestling/martial arts/MMA for over 15 years. I am a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with the National Strength and Conditioning Association. I recently became a Certified Functional Strength Coach as well. I graduated from Purdue University with bachelor degrees in Health and Fitness, as well as Movement and Sports Science.
Currently, I am teaching children and adults at Xtreme Martial arts. I also teach strength and conditioning at Trilogy, in Los Gatos.
I have worked with high-level athletes at the collegiate and professional level, but most of my experience is with inexperienced adults.
How did you get started teaching?
In high school, our wresting team ran an 8 week camp for the elementary school kids in our township. I enjoyed teaching my favorite art to young people that were enthusiastic and energetic.
Throughout college, our team taught the local regional training center (RTC), where I gained more experience teaching high school and middle school kids. I also worked as a personal trainer in college, training the faculty and students.
After I moved to California, I began teaching mixed martial arts, jiu jitsu, and kickboxing at the American Kickboxing Academy. I have been teaching at a variety of gyms since then, and am now teaching at XMA, in South San Jose.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with college athletes and football players, professional fighters, engineers, moms, and kids. I have trained with all ages, but kids are my favorite.
I currently teach children at XMA, but I also still train with the pro fight team at the American Kickboxing Academy.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A student of mine encountered a bully trying to fight him at recess. My student subdued the bully without hurting or striking him and held him down until the teacher could come. At lunch, the other kids in the class started teasing the bully, but my student gave him a hug and sat next to him. They are still friends.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Ask the trainer what their priorities are. If a trainer loves enforcing intensity, discipline, and strict technique, but you're looking for someone to provide more encouragement and positive feedback, you're not going to get the desired results.
Most trainers can give you a good workout, but if they're not delivering the right type of experience, they're not going to be worth the money.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What do you really want? Be honest and specific to yourself and the trainer. Tell me about the exact change you're wanting to see, and why you want to see that change. Your reasons might be very personal and even embarrassing, but being upfront with what you want is the best way to get it.