1)SBGI- Straight Blast Gym International (www.jagsport.com) Quek
Kon Hui
2)MMA Academy - BY Darren De Silva, i heard quite good
3)Farrer Park Boxing Gym- By some Ang Moh who won Submission
grappling contests, www.contactkinetics.com
Full Name: Quek Kon Hui
Jonathan:
Give us a brief introduction as to what Mixed Martial Arts
is.
Kon:
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) combines various combat sports including
Thai and Western Boxing, Wrestling, Judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
into a competitive format which resembles a “no- holds-barred”
fight. These competitions are increasingly popular in North
America, Brazil and Japan, where mega-production MMA events like
the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) and PRIDE regularly take
place.
Jonathan:
Give us a brief introduction of yourself.
Kon:
Well I’ve been in martial arts for awhile and have trained in a
variety of arts including Muay Thai (Thai boxing) and Western
boxing, Judo, Jeet Kune Do and some Kung Fu.
Jonathan:
When and why did you pick up MMA?
Kon:
I think it was just a natural progression from what I was doing
already. I was looking for a sport that combined all the ranges of
combat into a format that is as close to a real situation as you
can get. MMA seemed the obvious choice since it incorporates all
the ranges and you’re dealing against opponents who are fully
resisting your technique. There are no fantasy scenarios here as in
many traditional arts. You either knock, choke or tap the other guy
out, or he does it too you. It’s as simple as that.
Jonathan:
When and why did you decide to become an instructor? What is your
motivation?
Kon:
Totally by accident! I hooked up with Matt (President of the
Straight Blast Gym) while he was holding a seminar in Thailand.
Prior to this, I heard plenty of good things about SBGi and seen
some of their material on tape. Needless to say when I heard they
were putting on a seminar in Thailand, I jumped at the opportunity!
Things sort of evolved from there.
As far as representation in Asia, there are only two SBGi
affiliates; here in Singapore and one (recently) in Korea. In the
short time that I have been associated, SBGi has become like a
family to me. They’re one of the most innovative MMA gyms out there
and I’m immensely proud to be part of the group.
Jonathan:
Have you ever competed? If so, what's your best result?
Kon:
I have competed in a variety of combat sports like Kickboxing, Judo
& Submission Grappling and still continue to do so. Winning at
times, losing at others, but to tell you the truth if it was solely
about winning or losing I don’t think I’ll be having half as much
fun doing this!
Jonathan:
What's your typical training routine and diet?
Kon:
I teach about 3 times per week and sometimes more so it’s difficult
to maintain much of a steady training routine. Instead I make it a
point whenever possible to train along with my guys while I’m
coaching them.
Jonathan:
Do you incorporate any other form of training? Do you take any
supplements?
Kon:
I do plenty of yoga/pilates and some weightlifting. Not a
bodybuilder sort of program but focused more on strength and power.
In terms of supplements, I occasionally take some creatine and
protein, particularly when I’m training hard.
Jonathan:
How does MMA training improve fitness and conditioning? Does it
improve the mind as well?
Kon:
The nature of this sport requires a high degree of cardio vascular
endurance, strength and flexibility, especially if you want to do
this at a professional level. I encourage my guys to keep an
athletic mindset, try to cross-train and adapt best practices from
other sports. The better shape you’re in, the better you’ll be able
to perform.
MMA and especially Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has often been referred to
as a chess match. Train in this sport long enough and you’ll
quickly realize that being able to out think your opponent is just
as important as knowing the technique. It is as much of a mind game
as it is physical activity.
Jonathan:
Will training MMA give me a "ripped bod"? (Heh heh, sorry, but I
have to ask!)
Kon:
Will just working out give you a “ripped bod”? It depends on your
diet and training regime! Same with MMA.
Jonathan:
How effective is MMA in a nasty situation?
Kon:
Anywhere from being not effective to very effective. I’m still
working on mastering the art of bullet dodging LOL
The best strategy is not to get into these situations in the first
place. And if it takes a simple “I’m sorry” to avoid an
altercation…well, that’s good enough for me.
Jonathan:
Any future plans for MMA in Singapore?
Kon:
Continue what I’m doing now to spread the MMA & BJJ gospel to
even more people.
Jonathan:
Thank you for your time. Last words?
Kon:
There’s a common belief that you have to be “hard-core” or
incredibly fit to participate in MMA. Truth is anyone can do this
in a safe and fun way. The SBGi curriculum is purposely built
around models that are not based on individual characteristics like
size, strength or speed; all the attributes that a professional
athlete may possess over your average Joe. These are the heart of
our training methods and in line with our philosophy that anyone
should be able to do this. Whether you’re 15 or 50, training for
fun or professionally, whatever your training goals may be; you’ll
find something here!
If you're interested in knowing more about MMA or Brazilian Jiu
Jitsu, call or email:
Kon
Tel: 9677 1737
Email: [email protected]
For more info on the Straight Blast Gym, please visit
www.straightblastgym.com
Source:asiabodybuilding.com
