Natan, what technique do you use and why?

As a junior I fought over the top, sometimes with hook. In 2010 Tomek Szewczyk was preparing me for the Polish Cup in Kołobrzeg. I was doing a lot of work that suited the hook style, and I haven’t changed that since.

What are your three favorite exercises and why?

It’s hard to tell, I try to mix and switch my exercises. For the hook I definitely prefer working on the prayer bench, very good for working angles. I also like bars. Pullups are excellent for working the back, which helps with pulling your opponent. But the best technical workout is starting in competitions, it is there that you can verify your strengths and weaknesses.

What are your ways to regenerate before and after a fight?

I try to ease up for a week before a fight.

After a hard bout I try to relax my arm and not strain it till the next fight. After a competition I try to go back to training as quick as possible, starting with some light weights, expanders and light sparring, until my arms recuperate.

Have you had any serious injuries?

In 2012 in the Polish Championships in Grudziądz I fought in the 68 kg category. I was fighting Emil Wojtyra, I had to defend with and open wrist and I pulled a tendon really hard. For over half a year the pain was very severe, I had trouble falling asleep and couldn’t train. When I went to Germany, a doctor prescribed a wrist stabilizer for me. After a month the pain was gone and I could start training again.

What are your ways to regenerate?

I’ve only tried some ointments that just mask the pain for a while, nothing else.

Iza Małkowska