Preparation
is Key...
At
ASC,
we utilize
Core Strength Training
(CST) as a tool to prepare the body for the rigors of
martial training. Today’s understanding of human
biomechanics indicates that one approach to training
reigns in above the rest:
functional
training--that is, using the body holistically and
synergistically instead of isolating its parts (like
conventional weight training). While isolating muscle
groups during weight training might make them look good,
the ability for that athlete to call on those various
muscle groups to work in tandem--such as during martial
arts--is hampered by isolated training. Instead, our goal
is to “sync up” the body as much as possible during our
training so that it will have an easy time working for us
when under stressful conditions. It is indeed true that
we must “practice like we play.”
Modern sports science indicates that core strength
training is far superior and more important in the
creation of a superior athlete
and
the prevention of injuries than many conventional
approaches. In CST, all muscles in the body are
co-activated to guarantee not only a complete workout,
but a thorough development of the musculoskeletal system.
In the CST used at ASC, muscles, tendons and ligaments
are strengthened, bone density is increased, global
muscular endurance is enhanced and mental focus is
refined. Chief Instructor Jim Eubanks has experience
teaching CST to college athletes, including members of
the Furman University football team, soccer team,
lacrosse team and girl’s golf team.
A possible breakdown of training in Core Strength at ASC
might include:
I) Core Strength Basics: Posturing & Centering
II) Balance Training
III) Use of Training Modalities for Core Strength:
Medicine Ball, Banding (Thera-Band) & Physio Ball
(Swiss Ball)
IV) Advanced Core Strength Training: Hard
Qigong
