Peaceful Lion

Thank you. Yes, I definitely need to be more conscious of defending and tightening the core before impact. In this case it was grappling, so not so easy to defend - but maybe tightening more would have been the key. Are there any specific exercises anyone does for the lower rib area? I like your combination of styles Bushido_man.

I have a knack for bruising my ribs and/or core muscles while training. I like to know what people do to try to AVOID rib injuries. The obvious is don't get kicked/punched/crushed there. Clearly, this is going to happen - so what should one do to prepare/strengthen that area? I'm looking for advice as specific as possible, things that have worked for others. Core strengthening? Core stretching? I'm thinking that's where this question will lead but there may be tricks the fighters know that help also. Any advice will be appreciated. Thanks, Sneezing is not an option