Monday 12 August 2013

Holiday Training

Many students ask what type of training should they do over their holidays. Clearly the answer to the question is specific to the student and their specific circumstances. I think the following guidelines cover the majority of cases. If you need more specific advice please get in touch.

1) Swimming does not count as training for a martial artist. It is a low impact aerobic activity that does NOT translate to the speed and and explosive power required by any fighting sport. It is ideal for recuperation purposes. If it is the only type of exercise for extended periods (more than 2 weeks) it will slow you down and remove any sharpness from your kicks and punches.

2) If you have trained regularly and at a sufficient level of intensity over the last six months a short period of rest (1-2 weeks) could actually be necessary to allow for recovery and build up of your discipline reserves. If you have not seen any improvement for some time despite training hard, a break could be something you actually need.

3) If you really want to train then design 2 short sessions 10-20 min a day. One early in the morning and one      early in the afternoon.  Using a combination of 2 of the following exercises:
    a. Interval running on the sand or uphill
    b. small explosive forms focusing on speed and technique
    c. Upper body work involving lots of pull-ups, chest dips, lifting large stones, or any heavy irregular object
    d. Core work using press ups, sit-ups, hanging leg raises
    e. Finish every session with a few intense stretches - been in a hot climate can do miracles for your    
        flexibility over a very short period of time.

Bottom line --> If you decide to train on holiday work hard for short intense sessions and then reward yourself with resting, a relaxed swim and good quality high in protein diet.

Gonf Fu training is for life so learning how to balance intense training with appropriate rest periods