What is the most effective way to train your body for martial arts.?

Question

I have heard to drop the weights . Is this true

What should I do.

Answer 1

The answer to your question naturally depends on the type of martial arts you want to do; however, most arts share many of the same body development aspects. I would suggest that leg strength is the most important aspect of physical combat, due to the fact that power and speed from strikes come from the ground, generated by thrusting or pivoting the legs. Doing several squats with your own body weight should be sufficient, but if you want more you can add running, jumping rope, and kicking practice.

After that I would recommend core strength exercises (involving the abdominal and lower back muscles) because of the stability it provides for your entire body. These muscles actually offer protection to your vital organs; important when considering the mid-section as the largest target of the body. You will need to do a variety of exercises like V-ups, chinnies, and leg lifts.

I don't believe that weight lifting should be completely ignored; however, you must realize that some exercises can help you greatly with your performance, while others can impede or impair your techniques. With body building, the focus is on muscle growth, and it is the size that can cause tension in the body to slow movement from working against itself. Speed and power go hand in hand which are things clearly evident in any boxer's training regiment and physique.

After you can incorporate these basic elements you should infuse everything together with a good stretching routine. I highly recommend that you check out Yoga for these finishing touches. Good luck.

Answer 2

There is nothing wrong with weight lifting. Go light or go heavy, your choice. Just remember that weight training for Martial arts is not the same as lifting weights for bodybuilding; bodyweight excercises are also good.

Answer 3

Take martial arts classes.  You can find some in your area that aren't too expensive.  I took some for free in college.

Answer 4

Go to class and stretch.

Answer 5

well, if you are too heavy then drop weights, just do whatever your martial art teacher tells you to do...:))