Coach Vs Fighter Experience

Understanding the Dual Experience of a Martial Arts Coach and Fighter

Hey there, fellow martial arts enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into an interesting topic that's been on my mind – the dynamic difference and similarity between standing in the coach's corner versus fighting in the ring. Some of you might be training just for fun, while others are on their way to becoming seasoned fighters. No matter your level, you'll find this perspective both relatable and insightful.

The Emotional Roller Coaster: Wins and Losses

As someone who's tasted the adrenaline of fighting and also the responsibility of coaching, I’ve often been asked: How does it feel when your fighters win or lose? The answer is: it's incredibly similar to what you feel as part of that action.

When your fighter wins, it feels like you won. When they lose, it feels like you've lost.

Feeling the Fight Without Throwing a Punch

Imagine you've been hitting the gym for months. You haven't even stepped into the ring yet, but you decide to support a teammate at their fight. Their victory feels personal, doesn't it? And if they lose, it stings just as much. As a coach, these emotions mirror those of a fighter's – times two because you're feeling it for your fighter and for yourself.

The Lighter Side of Coaching

Being a coach on fight day is, admittedly, less strenuous in some ways. For one, I can actually enjoy meals and don't have to be on the notorious fighter's diet trying to cut weight. There's a physical ease to not being the one under the lights, but emotionally, it can be a whole other battle.

Navigating the Nerves: Control Versus Coaching

Stress Over Control

One of the most surprising things I discovered about coaching is just how nerve-wracking it can be, often more so than fighting. As a fighter, even though there's the risk of pain or defeat, you relish the direct control over the outcome. But as a coach? You control the preparation, not the execution.

As a coach, you can't control the fight. You can only control what you've taught and how you've prepared your fighter.

The Unexpected Stress

This lack of control means stress levels can skyrocket. You’ve done all you can to train your fighter, but when they're in the ring, it's truly their show. It’s nerve-racking but also an eye-opener to how deeply invested you are in your fighter's performance.

Respect in Victory and Defeat

As martial artists, whether as fighters or coaches, respect and ethics must always remain at the forefront of our practices. When all is said and done, and the punches are thrown, our role in demonstrating sportsmanship – win or lose – is as important as any strike or technique we teach.

Handling a Tough Loss

Sometimes a loss doesn’t just hurt; you might feel it was unjustly given. A coach has to voice these concerns respectfully, just like when my fighter Victor competed in Mexico City. While I voiced my thoughts about that match, remembering to shake hands and respect the other team was paramount.

The Ethical Journey of a Martial Artist

The similarities between being a fighter and a coach extend beyond just feelings – they bridge into ethics. Whether you're guiding from the corner or directly in the midst of a match, your integrity as a martial artist should shine through every action.

It's all about maintaining the ethics of being a martial artist – either as a coach or a fighter.

Closing Thoughts and Continuing the Journey

Thanks for joining me on this introspective journey over what it means to be both a fighter and a coach. I truly enjoy making these types of videos and sharing my experiences. If you have any burning questions or topics you want me to tackle next, feel free to drop a comment!

And if you're new to martial arts or you're scouting for the perfect gym, don't miss out on my book, The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School and Instructor – the link is below to grab your copy.

Your support means the world; let’s keep growing and learning in this fantastic martial arts world together.

Thank you!

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts School and Instructor