Fight Noach Blyden

This is how a kickboxer prepares for a fight
Kickboxing trainer Noach Blyden of Het Gymlokaal will compete in a match on April 14th in Alphen aan de Rijn. Noach is 25 years old and has been fighting MMA (mixed martial arts) and kickboxing matches for several years. He has fought 20 bouts so far. Read all about the preparations for his fight here.
 
What kind of match are you going to fight?
‘A kickboxing fight in the “light heavy weight” category in the B-class. This is also my last fight in the B-class before I move up to the A-class, the highest class.’
 
How do you prepare for such a fight?
‘Train a lot, at least 5 times a week and twice a day. Luckily I’m already at weight, so I don’t have to watch what I eat too much this time. I can keep eating well and stay balanced by training a lot and hard.’
 
Do you watch videos of your opponent?
‘No, not really. I get in the ring and then we fight! I always adapt my tactics per fight. I react to the situation and my opponent can’t prepare for that. If my opponent thinks he has figured out my tactics, I change them immediately — that way you’re always one step ahead.’
 
Are you going to win?
Yes, of course! If you don’t believe that yourself, you’d better not step into the ring.
 
What do you love most about competing?
The adrenaline! It gives such a rush. You walk out and people cheer for you. You’ve worked so hard in the preparation and finally you get to go! That’s such a huge release!
 
Does the support of the people around you mean a lot to you?
Yes, a great deal, and you need it too. I’ve dedicated fights to people who are dear to me, but ultimately you do it for yourself. But knowing that people support and encourage you feels good.
 
Can members of Het Gymlokaal come and watch?
Absolutely, it will be a real spectacle with multiple fights. On top of that, it’s cool to experience one of these gala events. Members can buy tickets from me at Het Gymlokaal for 25 euros. 
 
Are there more matches planned?
On May 19th I have another fight, which will be in the A-class. In MMA I’m already A-class and soon I will be in kickboxing too!
 
What do you draw from your personal training to train others?
Everything! By training so intensively and frequently myself, I have endless inspiration for, for example, the training sessions I give at Het Gymlokaal.