Monique Ricardo Interview

We sat down with Monique to ask her thoughts on what the biggest difference in her training has been and how she keeps her nutrition program on track.

By Sean Tierney, Team MuscleTech^®

Q: Are there any upcoming tournaments you're preparing for?

A: Yes, I am currently training for the North American Grappling Association (NAGA) Jiu-Jitsu World Championships in Texas on December 18 and 19, 2010.  

 Q: What type of training are you currently doing?

A: I train jiu-jitsu non-stop! I train at Cobra BJJ in Dallas, Texas. In my jiu-jitsu classes we train body movements, take downs, and extensive grappling. My coaches don't want me to be just average. They expect me to be in the top 3 percent. In order to become that, I have to do my homework, train extremely hard, and fully develop the psychological aspect of fighting, which includes lots of visualization. I also have a strength and conditioning coach, who helps me develop my strength and power. That is key in whatever sport you do!

Q: Are there any areas you are trying to improve in your fight game?

A: There is always room for improvement! The real secret is who you listen to! When you hire the best coaches, you get the best training! The plan is simple: If you're boxing, hit as fast and hard as you can. If you're wrestling, take the other person down as fast as you can. If you're doing jiu-jitsu, you have to submit the other person as fast as you can.

Q: What is your current training routine?

A: I go to jiu-jitsu classes on Monday to Thursday for a minimum of two hours each day and occasionally four hours. I usually start out with some light stretching and some basic drills. From there, my coach will teach me some techniques, followed by about 45 minutes of rolling on the mats.

Q: What are your future goals for BJJ?

A: My plan is to become a champion in Boxing, Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, Bikini and Figure!

Q:  What supplements do you take before your training sessions?

A: I've been taking naNO Vapor^® Hardcore Pro Series™ because it helps to give me the energy I need to train with intensity.