Strength training is the practice of using resistance against muscle contraction by using free weights, weight machines, rubber resistance bands and hydraulic power to build muscular strength, endurance, resistance to injury, flexibility and overall strength of the body. By working the body muscles extra hard, you tend to make them grow and increase their efficiency. Strength training also helps to fortify the ligaments and tendons that support the muscles and bones and improves bone density or the amount of calcium and minerals in the bones. The goal of strength training is not to bulk up and should not be confused with weight lifting, body building, power lifting etc.
Strength Training for Martial Arts is a specialized branch which aims at increasing the efficiency of martial arts enthusiasts.
The martial arts lifestyle revolves around increasing the holistic health of the body by doing certain activities in our day to day life that boost our body mind and spirit. It also lays emphasis on avoiding things that can damage the overall well being of the individual. Strength training is incorporated in martial arts by performing hardcore resistance exercises such as push ups, pull ups etc. and boosts the overall martial arts performance. It is very important to do strength training exercises in order to increase your level of performance in this sport. Most commercial gyms, fitness clubs, community centers and other training facilities provide specific
Strength Training For Martial Arts.
Benefits of Strength Training For Martial Arts:
Martial Art lays a lot of emphasis on agility, mobility, speed, power and strength. Strength training enhances the overall performance of individuals in this sport and prevents them from ending up with an injury. The most prominent benefits of training for martial arts are:
It increases the body tone.
It enhances the strength of muscles, ligaments, tendons and makes them tough.
It significantly decreases the risk of injury.
It improves the metabolic rate of the body
It improves body awareness and concentration
It increases self confidence.
It increases bone density.
Strength Training For Martial Arts and the reduced risk of injury:
The emphasis in martial arts is on the development of the whole body. The sports it self based on calculated neuromuscular coordination. A lot of physical activities take place during martial arts training that increase the overall risk of injury. Progressive strength helps lesson the repetitive landing force in various weight bearing activities and training activities used in martial arts. The muscles are known as shock absorbers and balancing agents throughout the body. A decrease in landing force means a decrease in the risk of injury. This type of training also reduces the risks of unbalanced muscle development.
The risk of injuries automatically decreases with well balanced muscle development, controlled movement and calculated coordination. Training the core muscle group reduces the risk of injuries and works well for injury rehabilitation and injury prevention. A good strength training program aims at developing all major muscle groups in order to achieve maximum benefits.
The factors that affect strength are consistency, amount of training, application of the right technique, rest, proper conditioning, good posture, heredity, environment, balanced diet, stress levels etc.
Consistency: In order to develop maximum strength and endurance, it is essential for you to follow a specific exercise routine on a regular basis. Breaking your routine increases the inefficiency of the workouts and leads to little or no gains. It is essential for you to devote a particular time to the training sessions whether you choose to train at home or in a commercial gym. If the exercises are performed regularly, the strength and endurance of the body will be enhances otherwise it will decline.
Application of the right technique: Most strength exercises revolve around lifting weights. The application of the accurate technique plays a significant role in boosting performance and decreases the risk of injury. While performing strength exercises one wrong move can result in a fatal injury or accident. Therefore, it is essential for you to follow the instructions given by your trainer carefully.
Adequate rest: It is essential for you to take off days during the week. It is not recommended to exercise on more than three days. Intense strength training exercises exhaust the muscles and exercises tired muscles can build up muscular fatigue. Exercising tired muscles leads to soreness in the body and increases the risk of injury. It is recommended that you take a day off in case your muscles are feeling tired or sore. It is during the rest period that maximum gains take place. The body rebuilds itself while you are resting. This leads to the formation of fresh muscle tissue that is larger in size and stronger.
Proper conditioning: conditioning has a direct relationship with physical fitness. This increases the overall performance in exercises and leads to the development of maximum strength and endurance.