A Champion is Created!

Alexander "The Great" Enriquez

FIGHT NIGHT with Alexander “The Great” Enriquez.

It’s another Sunday afternoon. The gym is closed, and as we turn the keys, all three of us know we’d rather be at the beach, at the park, or eating cheeseburgers. But like devout churchgoers, we are here.  For my brother George and I, it is a Sunday ritual to train our fighter Alexander “The Great” Enriquez.

He is about 125 pounds, quiet, serious and has never fought; all reasons people might assume he is paltry. At first, I wasn’t sure if his unassuming nature was a form of arrogance or respect. I couldn’t read those green eyes of his. But as time went by, I learned he has the heart of a lion and the determination of a wolf.

“How are you feeling?” I ask him.

“Good,” he responds, and I nod. 

We all know where we’re going and somehow not just for the day. Alex steps on the mat, I rush to the office computer to see what the NFL is doing, and my brother puts on some coffee. The Pats are winning, the air smells like caffeine and I soon hear the familiar tick tock tick tock of Alex’s jump rope.  As seconds wind up to minutes and the bells of the timer bob and weave into our ears and subconscious minds where the stillness is - I believe we make time move.

Stiff jabs rip the air, introductions to combinations of hand movements bound by fists, followed by graceful angles of cutting and moving that have us lost in the paradoxes of blind mirrors and shadow boxing with no shadows. The slip ball, lateral movement, sit ups, pushups, bag work… his warm up.

Eventually I get off the chair and put on the gear. I’m getting too old for this, but I want to give him some good sparring. So we step into the ring.

“Don’t hit my head. I want you to do only body sparring” I tell him - as I’m still feeling the pain of a car accident a few months ago. He nods. I lift my shirt and show him a bruised rib and hip, courtesy of yesterday’s training session and his left hooks.

 “I’m coming for you, cause of this,” I tell him and put on my gloves. “I’m gonna knock you out.” He smiles that freaky mouth piece smile. My brother readies the camera. We record it and my brother points out our errors afterwards on the TV, while we deplete the boss’s supply of waters and peanuts.

“Don’t throw punches you know won’t land!” “Keep your hands up!” “Look at me in the eyes!” “Don’t circle into your opponent’s power!” we pop off instructions. We bark out praise and criticism. I punch his face. We do this for 18 minutes. 

He listens, he implements and soaks up every word the way canvas soaks up blood on fight night. After this, he will run three miles on the treadmill. I push him as the wheels spin, eight miles an hour, then ten miles an hour, I put him on full inclines that reach in and try to rip out his lungs. I stand still next to the machine, but chase him worse than a hound chases a fox or a ghost a live soul - till he almost falls off.

“If you fall off, you will break your arm or your foot, and your six months of training will be for nothing” I tell him as he limps dangerously close to falling off the treadmill. He tries to tell me he has a cramp, but he has no air left in his lungs. The treadmill is hurting his insides, but I am sure he is doing the same thing to it; all his sweat, puddles and pools, fall on this machine rusting up its bolts. He will break it someday, or at least that’s what I tell him.

Fight night is Friday. “Friday, Friday, Friday” I say like it is not a day on the calendar but the end of the world. “You need to hurt this man.”

Our first fight was cancelled, as our opponent got cold feet. Three weeks later we drove over an hour to a gym, but were not put on the card, and now it is finally here. We have a scheduled fight for sure.

“Are you nervous?” I ask him. “Yes,” he tells me, and I admire him for his honesty because I was nervous the first time I fought.  “That’s OK,” I tell him. “I want you to be nervous. You eat eggs in the morning, to gain power for training, and a few minutes before you step into that ring, you will eat the nervous and you will have power for winning.” He nods. He listens, he soaks up every word.  My brother starts talking to him now. He teaches him combinations and secrets of the sweet science, something I watch play out in front of me, over and over and over and over.

I won’t describe all of Friday to you. Not the way I lived it anyhow, for it would take too long. But I will tell you Alexander’s family is there. A few diehards from the gym are there. We are there. And Kobi Julian – the owner of XTC gym – is there. She smiles proudly and I catch her admiring “her fighter.” I give her a thumbs up as we plan where we are going to film our fight from. 

The night is electric. Somebody has already been knocked out; he beat the count, argued with the ref for stopping the fight, and then stumbled towards his corner - before collapsing on his face, untouched; doctors rushing to see if he is OK.  

After three bells, Alex lifts the trophy, and he looks at us and smiles - the biggest smile ever. He exits the ring and is hugged and kissed by all who love him. He doesn’t want us to cut his wraps off, not yet anyway. He is 1-0 now and wants to savor this moment like a glass of wine.

Later as he sits in the car, still with his hands wrapped, he asks my brother “how did you know I wasn’t breathing?” My brother smiles and pats his head. “Take the day off tomorrow, Sunday, we will do it all over again.” And we do.

Since writing this article, Alex is now 2-0. He won his second fight by TKO in the second round. If you have ever wanted to compete, or simply learn how to box, please come and inquire at XTC gym.

XTC GYM 2131 Colorado Boulevard Eagle Rock CA 90041-1221

info@xtcgym.com    +1 (323) 259-9009

 By: Evangelos Giovanis

The Art of Capoeira

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chegado and I have been training the art of Capoeira for 14 years, each of us stumbled upon the art in different ways but stayed for the same reason, it is truly a captivating art.  It is an art form that challenges you physically and intellectually.  Each person that trains Capoeira is drawn to it for their own specific and personal reason, it develops  your rhythm, strength, agility, reflex, as well as your musical, acrobatic and dance skills.  But for most, it is the history, the tradition, the cultural and the profound sense of community that are sticking points. 

Capoeira is the art of survival, with a history that dates back more than 500 years to the slave trade in Brazil.  It was and is an art of empowerment, a celebration of the African roots in Brazil; from the music to the movement it tells the story of a people oppressed, enslaved and later liberated through their strength and will.  

We made the decision to pursue the art form professionally because we believe Capoeira is a vehicle for positive change and cultural enrichment.  The art form promotes diversity, understanding, creativity, health, and discipline for youth and adults alike. Northeast Los Angeles is a vibrant and eclectic community that appreciates and searches out cultural diversity in the arts and we are blessed to have found our home here.

 

 

Recognize the Importance of Rituals

 Much of everyday life is made up of rituals-established, predictable, patterned behaviors that structure the day.  There are morning rituals (brushing your teeth, showering, reading newspaper), midday rituals (everything from the so-called "power lunch" to a simple sandwich in your office), and evening rituals (a cocktail or two, dinner at 6:00 pm, a few minutes of intimate time with your spouse, and -if you are lucky---sex).

 

Rituals are a form of structure that actually make life flow more easily.  They are mindless- you do them without thinking. Perhaps most important of all, they orient you as to where you are and what you should be doing.  Rituals are like an invisible watch- if you are taking a shower, it must be morning! Without rituals, every day is a new day full of unpredictability, uncertainty, and the possibility of unhappiness.

 

Here are some examples of what rituals you can incorporate into your life:

• Exercise first thing in the morning, join a gym with group classes, and make sure the instructors are certified and know their discipline.  Being in a group environment motivates you to keep going, and you have a partner who is accountable.

• Sitting for a few minutes of quiet contemplation, in meditation or prayer. 

• Getting a professional massage once a month.  Relieve stress from your body and relax your mind.

• Browsing through your favorite bookstore every Saturday morning (you gotta hurry before they close them all down)

• Checking in via email or text with loved ones once a day.

• Taking an afternoon nap.

• Enjoying some quality, one-on-one time with your pet.

• Spending five minutes every day reflecting on all the things you have to be grateful for.  Count your blessings.

Don't become a slave to rituals; otherwise they become tedious.  If something more interesting comes along at the same time you normally take your afternoon nap, go for it!  You can always nap tomorrow.

In the Face of Challenges, Rivise Your Life Plan

Major life challenges and trials disrupt your life and force you to redirect your energies, interests, and commitments.  But how do you do that? It's not easy to revise your life and move into a positive, more satisfying future.  But these steps can get you moving in the right direction:

• Create a positive mindset by sitting quietly with your eyes closed while opening your mind to the possibility of hope, optimism, and creative behavioral change.  Take ten exaggerated breaths, breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth while silently repeating the word relax each time you exhale.

• Identify a short list of valued life goals-for example, being closet to your family, becoming a more spiritual person, reconnecting with old friends, and getting in shape. Goals give you a sense of direction in terms of the changes you want to make.  Basically, you are deciding what you want your life to stand for from this point on.

•  Surround yourself with people who have positive energy, who can push you and direct you toward your goals.

• Decide what the incentives are for you to reach these goals.  What is the end game?  Will you have greater peace of mind?  Will you be happier? Will you live longer?  Be specific.

• Ask yourself how committed you are to achieving each goal.  The more committed you are, the more successful you will be.

• Ask yourself how confident you are about making these changes.  Commitment and confidence are not the same.  You can be committed, but not all that confident- or, the other way around.

• Consider what specific things you would need to realize each goal.  Where would you start?  How much support do you need?  If you have several goals, which one do you begin with?  Make it easy on yourself-start with the smallest, easiest thing and work your way up to the big changes.

• Identify any obstacles to meet your objectives.  Do you have physical limitations that might interfere?  Are other people's attitudes holding you back?

• Begin-Just Do It.  It does not matter what you do; the important thing is that you just do something. Change takes effort, so you have to persist, even when going gets tough.  There is no easy way to accomplish change.  Change also takes time, so be patient.  As the saying goes, "Rome wasn't built in a day."  You Cannot reconstruct your life in a day either.  Focus on the destination, but enjoy the journey.

• Reward yourself for whatever changes you make no matter how small.  If changes is rewarding, keep at it-if it isn't, quit.  It's just that simple.

Put Your Mind to Work for You

What is it that you want in life?  

A debt-free life, new friends, a loving partner, a knock-out to die for healthy body, plenty of money, a new car, or the dream job- whatever the person desires will manifest. When someone decides to accelerate the process and works out a plan to allow for that manifestation, myriad opportunities begin to present themselves.

 

A person who wants to get to the next level, whatever the goal might be, needs only to change his or her mindset and be aware that the opportunities for manifestation of his or her desire will become more commonplace.  It is as if the universe is working with you, putting wind in the sail of your dream ship to take you anywhere you want to go and give you the experiences, relationships, money, wealth, and things you most desire.

 

Fernando Reis

Fernando Reis, who teaches Brazilian Jiu Jitu here at Xtreme Training Center, has changed his mind set, moving forward full force to manifest his desires and dreams, has this to say, "The personal development program 'Your Wish Is Your Command' dramatically improved the quality of my life. In only a few months after I started listening to the CDs I tripled my income, I  have better relationship with everybody around me, I re-connected with my family, and found myself excited about what is coming to my life in the future. I feel truly empowered."

 

             What is stopping you from reaching the next level of your life?

Through People's Eyes

 

To see you through my eyes, I must define myself!

I am a sailboat in the middle of a long exhausting journey.... shortly after a big storm, I find myself stranded.... in the middle of a dark still ocean….with a tough able crew together...alone...

There is no wind, no movement, no hope of reaching home….
So from nowhere comes a big beautiful perfect wave.  Bringing with it.... a temporary breeze, a smell, a light's reflection, a flicker of strength,  and with it a needed motion to the vessel.
 

And although it will pass and continue on its course.... it lifted this boat as high as this waves strengths allow, and reminds me what it’s like to move with the wind that will one day come and take me to wherever my home is:)  

I am this boat and you this wave....thank you for hitting my side and holding me to rise.  Even for a short time. Even for an easy gesture for a wave as beautiful as you;)

The Power of Multiple Martial Arts!

George Giovanis:
He started boxing at the young age of 12 where he became a member of Rhode Island Boxing.  This east coast gym was the home of legendary five time world champion Vinny Pazienza.  During his many years training, George learned the importance of belonging to a gym environment, acquired the discipline to excel and experience to teach. 
  
As time passed, George’s interests expanded into Kickboxing and Muay Thai.  He devoted many years to these sports and he fought out of the Sampalis Kickboxing Academy where he helped train professional fighters.  In his spare time, George also made three feature films that went on to screen at various film festivals and win many accolades by critics and judges alike.  

He moved to California in search of the sun and the pursuits of all his passions.  He happily works at XTC Gym.  George loves to see his students mature, hour by hour and week by week - while they achieve their own personal fitness goals, and gain the knowledge of personal protection.

David Bensimon is the new addition to our XTC Kickboxing Team.  We are excited to have him training our wonderful clients.  Everyone who has taken his class loves him.  Come and join us for a great workout.  Here are the benefits:

• Xtreme Training Center™ Kickboxing classes are the most popular class we offer.
• They consist of 50-60 minute interval training sessions including cardio-vascular and resistance training, as well as plyometric exercises.
• Each class includes a warm up, several rounds of combinations on your choice of different punching bags, finishing with at least 10 minutes of abdominal exercises.
• These classes are designed to maximize your workout while having a competitive group environment.
• Depending on your body’s metabolism and caloric intake you will burn approximately 600-800 calories per hour.
• These classes will improve your strength, flexibility, cardio and self-defense skills regardless of your experience level.

2011 National Championship & Junior Olympics Tae Kwon Do

Tae Kwon Do is a form of Korean martial arts with an emphasis on using kicks, quick foot work and flexibility. Tae Kwon Do is an excellent martial art that teaches discipline, etiquette, self confidence and self discipline. XTC is proud to offer Tae Kwon Do with an exceptional master.  Our Tae Kwon Do class challenges your mind and body, yet is suitable for all learning levels.  Get yourself involved in a practice that shows honor and courage. Classes available for all ages!

Xtreme Training Center is the ultimate destination for Tae Kwon Do for ages 3 &up. Our classes are taught By Master Bobby Vargas whose training had paid off greatly.  Our students brought home 4 gold, 1silver and 2 bronze. 
We are proud of our competition team.  XTC Rocks!!!!!

Capoeira Brazil!

Are you looking to develop your flexibility, coordination, reflex, rhythm and strength? Come and join Jessica and Sean here at XTC.

The traditional Afro-Brazillian martial art of Capoeira incorporates athleticism, music and history.  Capoeira's fusion of historical roots, fluid movement, graceful acrobatics, powerful kicks, and lethal take downs provide a unique and challenging workout surprisingly accessible for all fitness levels.

The art of Capoeira began its development over 500 years ago during the South American slave trade in Brazil. The fusion of African and indigenous cultures during the colonial period produced the perfect climate for the development this unique and complex art form. Africans, stripped of their freedom and tribal identity, meshed the music, culture, and traditions of their diverse tribes, creating a new and distinctive Afro-Brazilian identity. Capoeira was a fundamental element of their lives in the New World.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Rocks!

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a very practical and comprehensive ground fighting system practiced around the world.  Jiu Jitsu incorporates a variety of strangles and chokes, sweeps and throws, joint locks and submission techniques.

You will develop a solid mastery of the fundamentals that is essential in creating a foundation upon which the more advanced techniques can be built. Fernando Reis who rightly earned his Black Belt in BJJ in his early twenties teaches at XTC Gym.