Introduction...and need some help

[yamesu]

Sounds like the style of training utilised in the Kyokushin dojo I currently train at.

After an ~5yr break from karate, I found the extreme repetitions extremely difficult, but you will (like me) build up tolerance to it.

By the same token - if you are pushin yourself at 80-90% effort levels, it will always be a challenge, no matter how good you are, because as your skill and tolerance increases, so does your ability to increase effort levels.

As far as muscle building, I thik ther is some great responses above, which I wholeheartedly agree with.

Strength training is great, and not to be over looked, but MAKE SURE you understand the difference between doing weight training for strength building OR muscle building beore embarking on continual weight sessions!!!

I do however agree that being bulky can be restrictive in Martial Arts. Speed and Timing (Ma-ai) are key in karate. This will come with time, but I have personally found that being lighter and quicker (less bulky) has benefited me personally.

If your goal is to move up a weight class, then muscle building through weight training is the way to go, as opposed to taining to move up a weight class through eating cheeseburgers and fried chicken

Best of luck with everything! OSU!