The Martial Artists' Training Log

[baronbvp]

I guess that is why we keep at it, huh?

I ordered a book on boxing today, and I am excited to see what it will offer me on that stuff.

True dat. I have been reading about Pilates to try and lengthen my long muscles and become more flexible. I plan to add Pilates concepts to my stretching regimen. There's a good book I checked out of the library called Pilates for Men, by Elyse McNergney. It adds dumbbell weights and leans out the moves to those that will help men specifically build core strength, flexibility, and power.

[bushido_man96]

Sounds great, Baron. Maybe I should look into Pilates as well.

[baronbvp]

Looks boring but effective.

[James Bullock]

I like to use a blend of Pilates and Yoga...it is boring...but very humbling when you are starting out because it requires a great deal of core stability and strength to do.

I noticed a large increase in overall body power in my martial arts skills after including Pilates and Yoga into my training.

[James Bullock]

Hey Baron..

When I first started JKD in 1996 it screwed me up big time switching to power side forward..all except my left leg being my rear leg. For some reason I have been much more adept at kicking with my left leg than my right. And in most cases I am right legged and right handed...lol..

I also remember the first time I through a rear cross with my left....My instructor said....what was that?...made me feel wonderful.....ha...

[baronbvp]

Ah, motivation! Pilates and JKD. Thanks, James.

Would you say it was worth it to fight power side forward as a primary style?

[bushido_man96]

Hey Baron..

When I first started JKD in 1996 it screwed me up big time switching to power side forward..all except my left leg being my rear leg. For some reason I have been much more adept at kicking with my left leg than my right. And in most cases I am right legged and right handed...lol..

I also remember the first time I through a rear cross with my left....My instructor said....what was that?...made me feel wonderful.....ha...

If I may interject , I think that one of the most valuable things a student can learn is to be able switch lead sides, and to be comfortable with it. It makes you a more versatile fighter, and can take your opponent out of a strategy.

I love to do this when I fight/spar.

[James Bullock]

Hey Baron,

I think it is of prime importance to be able to use both leads as equally as possible. I prefer using my power side forward however I feel just as comfortable and strong using a left lead as well.

Versatility (as Bushidoman said) and a adaptability are cornerstones when it comes to being an effective fighter in any arena..street or sport.

I do allot of neutral stance / natural stance practice so I can equally develop both sides of the body.

[baronbvp]

I do too. My MT instructor kept harping on me for facing too forward instead of sideways like boxer. I like to switch leads and often do, and I love to lead with my left. But my right is just weak as a reverse punch. More practice!

[NightOwl]

as much as I'd hate to been seen on a pastel mat surrounded by soccer moms...yoga and Pilates certainly will help you with felxibility.