Ask Master Ryan MacEachern

My greatest influences were Master Yeong Choi Rhee who was my first teacher and he would call me`Lion`because he could not pronounce my name. His calmness and sharp technique caught my focus, and I would listen to his every word and study his every movement.
 
Master P.Hollohan was my second instructor that taught me to `break the barrier`within myself inorder to attain a  focus that would allow myself to adapt to situations for example; competing against a stronger challenger in a tournament, pushing past my fears as a young child, and to persevere past many challenges in my life.
 
Finally my present teacher is Kwan Jang Nim J.Cariati President of the ICTF. His attention to detail both in technique and protocol is second to none. The way Kwan Jang Nim Cariati moves is sharp, swift, and forceful. He is also of course always envisioning ways of promoting the Art of Taekwon Do throughout the world. He never rests... I could not see myself training under another Master after him due to the fact of the effort,energy and passion that Kwan jang Nim has displayed over the past 12 years that I have been able to honourably train under his guidance.
 
I never forget where I have come from and I owe everything that I have learned in the martial art aspect from my Teachers in Taekwon Do. I THANK YOU...

What keeps you training and teaching?

The students that I have seen grow beginning at young ages when their parents enroll them and put the responsibility of molding them into stronger technical, moral individuals. This is what brings me back with greater focus and zest. What makes me continue to train is that Taekwon Do allows me to keep youthful , flexible and reminds me that good sharp technique needs to be sharpened and maintained like any weapons or tools. Also I have had to on occasion utilize my Taekwon Do to defend myself in the streets and as I age I hope that if additional episodes arise that I am still able to call upon my apst training to keep me safe.

Favorite quote

`Great spirits always encounter violent opposition from mediocre minds` Albert Einstein

What is your training routine like?

There is great importance of the utilization of cardiovascular training combining  running on level surfaces and hills,jump rope, swimming and cycling. Also strength training especially body weight or greater resistance training and flexibilty routines. Also the patterns keep me limber and allows the constant refocusing of my mind to remember the finer movements  that are very subtle to the untrained eye but can be learn especially when you attend to the details of your teacher and when you attend a seminar. Kicking drills with the interaction of a good strong training partner is also an exceptional way to keep your techniques very well timed   The favourite routines of mine are the old Bruce Lee book. The Art of expressing the Human Body`composed by John Little. Another book that has allowed me to progress is `Chi Running`by Danny and Katherine Dryer. Of course the highy utilized Encyclopedia of Taekwon Do by General Choi Hong Hi.

What is the importance of nutrition in TKD training?

This is highly important due to the recovery and repair portion of everyones`training. Everyones`body is very different especially in regards to food sensitivities and allergies. My own body changes over the years is very dynamic certain foods when younger are no longer tolerable now. The important factor is this. Adapt your food intake to your specific training needs and body type and food intake beliefs

What are the best ways to avoid injuries while training?

Contrary to past experiences dealing with Martial Art injuries in the early 1980`s your Martial Art Instructor may have attempted to fix and or cure your injury. Or you may dealt with the pain and continued through the activity. But Medical research has come along way in 30 years and Martial Art practitioners have adapted the internet information for may injuries..
The main idea is to remember this `LISTEN TO YOUR BODY` Joint pain is never good. muscle pain can be good and can be bad... You need to know the difference Delayed onset muscle soreness ( What is it... look it up) Rest is VERY important again listen to your body. If you are not sure if the pain you are having is good or bad. Speak with a trusted Medical Practitioner in your area..

Once again thank you for this opportunity in sharing some of my thoughts and experiences.
Keep practicing and LIVE PASSIONATELY..
Master MacEachern VII Dan