Life Outside the Dojo: A Balanced Approach to Coaching
Karate is my life, but balance is the fuel. See the moments behind the medals—where I recharge, spend time with family, and find inspiration to lead the next generation of champions.
Taking a moment to enjoy the incredible view at SAI Shillong, also known as the Scotland of the East. The beautiful surroundings make the hard work here even more rewarding.
Enjoying the pleasant weather in Shillong. Sometimes you just need to take a walk, breathe in the fresh air, and reset.
A casual walk on the track with a friend. These moments of simple conversation and relaxation are just as important as intense training.
Another walk on a foggy day in Shillong. The weather here can change in an instant, but the path forward always remains clear.
A collage of memories with friends over the years. These are the bonds that last a lifetime, forged through shared experiences both in and out of karate.
A Guru Purnima post dedicated to my gurus, parents, and teachers. I am grateful for the guidance and support from everyone who has shaped my journey.
The closing ceremony of the 2nd Northeast Olympic Games. The energy of the crowd and the celebration of sport is always an amazing experience.
Our participation in the Fit India Freedom Run. Promoting fitness and a healthy lifestyle in the community is a responsibility I take seriously.
About Life Outside the Dojo
Discipline in the dojo requires a calm mind, which is why I prioritize recovery just as much as training. Whether it is a quiet walk in the hills of Shillong or family time at home, these moments of reset are what keep me sharp, focused, and ready to push my students to their absolute best.
Achieving excellence in competitive karate isn't just about endless repetition of Katas or grueling sparring sessions. As a coach who has competed at the national level and now judges for the Asian Karate Federation, I have learned that the best athletes are the ones who understand the rhythm of rest and hard work.
My life is split between the high-altitude training environment of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) in Shillong and the energetic 99 Martial Arts Hub in Najafgarh, Delhi. At both locations, the training is intense. We focus on WKF rules, point-scoring tactics, and physical conditioning, but we do it with a philosophy of 'Thoda mazaak, thoda dedication.'
When you train with me, you are not just learning technique. You are learning a lifestyle of discipline. We talk about recovery, mental toughness, and the patience needed to handle tournament pressure. I believe the dojo should be a place where you feel supported as a person, not just a competitor. Whether you are prepping for SAI selection trials or simply refining your skills, my goal is to help you reach your potential while keeping your love for the sport alive.
Similar work from other experts
Browse through Curated picks from other experts on mytribe
From Local Mohalla to National Karate Arena
9My Journey and Philosophy of Martial Arts
Professional Karate Coaching and Sports Mentorship in Gurugram
12
Our Martial Arts Philosophy and Coaching Team
18
Finding Balance: How I Maintain My Mindset and Physique
19
Fitness is about living, not just lifting
More from Competitive Karate Coaching by Sunil Rathee