Martial Arts Stretching - The Methods of Stretching That Will Make You Flexible Fast! , Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 8:28 PM, in

The proper knowledge of modern scientific stretching applications applied to a martial arts stretching routine can help the new martial artist achieve maximum flexibility, or allow the experienced martial artist to easily move up to the next level in a fraction of the time it used to take with traditional stretching methods.
There are several methods used for improving flexibility which should be incorporated into a martial arts stretching routine. Stretches are either static which means the stretch uses no motion to achieve extended flexibility or dynamic which means they use movement to increase the range of motion. There are several variations of these categories to be used to increase your flexibility and we will include an explanation of the primary methods.
Static-Passive Stretching

Static-Passive stretching (also referred to as relaxed stretching) uses the process of extending a muscle group to the maximum point of flexibility and holding this position until the muscle tension relaxes.
Ballistic Stretching
Ballistic stretching uses a rhythmic bouncing or bobbing motion, relying on the momentum of the moving limb or body part to forcibly move the concerned muscle group to a position beyond the normal limits of flexibility. Ballistic stretching can be dangerous and although it was once a popular method used by martial artists it is not recommended. The risk of injury far outweigh the potential for gains in flexibility using this technique.




Dynamic Stretching
Dynamic stretching involves moving a body part or limb in a controlled manner. Dynamic stretching is similar to ballistic stretching but does not use any bouncing or bobbing motions. Movements are typically performed using a full range of motion at near full speed and typically imitate specific motions used in the martial art itself. Examples of dynamic stretches are leg raises or arm swings beginning with slow controlled movements and quickly moving up to a full speed and range of motion.

Isometric Stretching
Isometric stretching is a form of static stretching which uses resistance or tension of the muscle groups being stretched. Isometric stretching increases the strength as well as the range of motion of the muscle groups being worked on and is much more effective than simple static or dynamic stretching for the modern martial artist.
PNF Stretching
PNF is short for proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and is the most effective and fastest method known to achieve maximum flexibility as part of a martial arts stretching regimen. PNF was initially developed by the American Neurologist Herman Kabat with physical therapists Margaret Knott and Dorothy Voss in the mid twentieth century as a treatment for paralysis in stroke patients. These techniques have been modified since the 1970's for effective use as a sports flexibility method. PNF stretching is a combination of passive stretching and isometric stretching methods to achieve maximum static flexibility.
The proper application of the stretching methods discussed can help the modern martial artist realize rapid increases in flexibility far beyond what could have been accomplished just a few years ago. With the knowledge of which method to incorporate into his or her martial arts stretching routine the modern martial artist can accomplish mastery of their art in a fraction of the time it used to take.

I invite you to use these methods to increase the benefit of your stretching routine

And I also invite you to visit MartialArtsStretching.com to complete your knowledge of the martial arts stretching methods, routines and applications needed to rapidly increase your flexibility to the point of performing full splits easily and mastering high kicks and effortless technique.

From Donald Borah - The Martial Arts Stretching Master and MartialArtsStretching.com.

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Yakusokugeko - The Proper Roles of Uke and Nage , at 8:24 PM, in

Since Aikido is about avoiding struggle and performing a technique with the least amount of effort, we must consider our roles as both Uke and Nage.
As Nage, first and foremost, it is our responsibility to protect Uke. If there is resistance, if one is off balance or if the technique just is not going as it should, just relax, slow down and find your "way." Aikido is about power - an inner power - rather than force. Try not to force a technique. As Nage it is our responsibility to smoothly establish and maintain a connection with Uke throughout each technique.
As Uke it is our responsibility to provide a realistic attack (but not overly aggressive), and then move our bodies in relationship to Nage's movement so as to be in the safest position possible, while maintaining a sense of connection.
Grabs by Uke should be firm, but not rigid. The hand and wrist will be used to control whatever is being grabbed. The rest of the body should remain loose and able to adapt to the situation.




Strikes by Uke should have good extension, without locking out your own joints. Locking out joint can lead to injuries. Always try to keep some bend in the elbows, and give about 95% of your full energy. You do not want to over commit and not be able to react.
The loss of connection is an opportunity for either Uke or Nage to commence a new attack. Therefore, maintaining the connection is of the utmost importance.
Remember, you take ukemi to avoid injury only. Uke must be able to respond appropriately to the situation. This requires much training and introspection as how to do this best.
"Free of weakness ignore the sharp attacks of your enemies: Step in and act!"
- Morihei Ueshiba

Sean Hannon is a student at Castle Rock AIKIDO. http://www.craikido.com/

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The Ancient Art of Kickboxing , at 8:21 PM, in

Kickboxing, as it was known by the name of "Muay Thai"', originated as the national sport of Thai society, with competitions held as early as 1257-1377 AD.

You might also say that Muaythai was the sport of kings in its early days. King Pha Chao Sua was so involved in the sport he used to disguise himself as a commoner to participate.

He was further so supportive of the sport he ordered his army to be trained in the art, and interest swelled. In 1774, Nau Khanohm Tom, as a captured prisoner of war, fought his way in contest, defeating 10 of Burma's very best.

The Burmese king, King Mangra, himself so impressed, applauded his achievements, and granted Nau Khanohm Tom his freedom.

Certainly this may have given Mauythai enormous new attention and status to survive in history over the next centuries.

In 1921, although the fighting style had not changed, new transformations were applied with the inclusion and standardization of the 20 Glove 20ft roped ring.

Gloves were introduced as standard in 1923 by order of the police of the interior ministry.

By the 1930s groin protection was introduced. International enthusiasm grew slowly; it was as late as 1995 when the first world Amateur Muay Thai Championships were held.

As a martial art, there is very little equipment required of participants, although it has come a long way since the early days.

Kick boxers will use hand wraps, i.e. pieces of cloth to wrap around their hand beneath gloves.

Today the gloves are much thicker for the protection of an opponent, but light gloves are also available for training against bags.

Shin guards, and groin protectors are also worn. Female boxers may choose to wear a chest or torso protector, although some discussion about these claim they often do more hurt than give protection.

Certainly uniforms should be worn with pride.

Kickboxing is phenomenally popular today. It is possible to find an active kickboxing school near you. Classes may be offered at your local gymnasium, or police and citizens youth club, alongside all respected martial arts classes.

Certainly a grading system exists today as with other martial arts. Grading and competitions are held regularly.

The grades, called belts, are from white-red-yellow, and then continue to orange-green-purple and blue-brown-back.

You continue to further levels beyond black as a master of the art. Kickboxing as all martial arts, is suitable for everyone from children, to women and men.

Full contact is strictly and safely controlled, and participants do not fight outside of their ability. Certainly kickboxing training is an ideal exercise that can be performed at your own individual pace and ability. Many classes are offered as either contact or non contact training.

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Infighting Panic - When a Boxer Gets Too Close to a Martial Artist , at 8:17 PM, in

There has long been a debate as to whether a traditional karateka or a boxer would win in a fight.
The karate folk believe that their kicks, knee strikes, and elbow hits, would give them an advantage. The boxers wouldn't be prepared for these martial variations. Since the boxers aren't allowed to kick in the ring, they wouldn't be prepared.
On the other hand, a boxer feels that he has an advantage with his infighting skills. His flurry of punches to the body would be too much for a karate practitioner. Also, a karate practitioner wouldn't be able to handle feints and fakes. At least not with the finesse that a boxer would employ.
Let's discuss one aspect of this debate, one subsection of the controversy -- the barrage of punches that a boxer lets fly to his opponent's body. This is definitely a question of experimenting. Specifically, how will you respond to someone who fights very close with a "load" of punches to your midsection?




Get a partner for this exercise.
Your partner will be punching at your stomach or to your sides -- on the kidneys and sides of the trunk of the body.

 Note: You have seen boxers who fire off a lot of punches, first with one fist and then with the other. The punches alternate, each very fast and powerful. They don't always fight with alternating punches, but we have to start somewhere.

If you come from a blocking style, then your job will be to block and then counter. I want you to try to defend yourself by blocking one or more of those fast punches that the boxer is unloading on your midsection.
Why would I have you try this?
Because I see traditional martial artists attempt to block as their first move a lot. Even when going against a boxer, they try to block.
If you haven't guessed by now, I don't think that blocking a boxer in infighting range is the answer, especially when he is punching from the chest down, and on the sides.
Now, you know one strategy that isn't the most efficient for this type of situation.
I'll post more articles discussing this topic.

Keith Pascal is the author of How to End The Fight With One Hit.

Keith also edits a Free ezine on practical martial arts: Keith Pascal's ezine. (You get a great free martial arts ebooklet, when you join.)

Pascal has taught martial arts for over 25 years. He left his job as a high school teacher in 2000, to become a full-time writer.

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Bob Body Opponent Punching Bag - The Perfect Solution For Practice , at 8:13 PM, in

The Bob body opponent punching bag is the perfect solution for boxing or martial arts practice. Now you can actually practice with a sparring Bob that doesn't punch back. I like that! Seriously though, I am quite impressed with Bob the punching bag.
This human like punching bag comes on a stand that you can fill with water or sand, whichever you prefer. This gives a good solid base for practicing. He's also adjustable from 5'10" up to 6'2" so you can set him at the height that you want to practice with.
I really love how realistic they have made boxing Bob. His proportions and shape are just like a real person. This is perfect for practicing body shots, or training in self defense. Even his skin feels real so when you are practicing you get a better idea of how the punch would actually feel if you were sparring with someone. This is a great advantage compared to most conventional punching bags.
He's great for learning all your techniques and shots with. You can even throw uppercuts to the chin and body. Many people buy a separate upper cut bag to practice these shots but with the Bob body opponent punching bag you wouldn't need one. So it really saves you money in the long run. I really like that.

Because he is so lifelike, you can actually target your punches towards specific parts of his body. You can't do that with a regular punching bag.
What I really like the most is the new design they have given Bob. He use to be just an upper torso punching dummy but now they have what they call a "Century Bob with groin". Along with the upper torso they have added the upper thighs and lower torso complete with boxer shorts.! Now the Bob body opponent punching bag really looks human!

Ready to start practicing with the Bob body opponent punching bag and take your skills to a whole new level? Get started now at http://squidoo.com/century-bob

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