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On this page you will learn more about conditioning your body for Karate!
Conditioning is vital for all forms of fighting, whether for Dojo Kumite; Competition; or Self-Defence.
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Movement as Conditioning
Movement is a constant part of Karate, and practicing the moving basics, Kata, Kumite drills, and Kumite leads to a high level of fitness. |
Padwork a a method to fitness
Padwork is an excellent way to work both Aerobic and Anaerobic capacity. This means that your heart, lungs and muscles will all benefit from the training.
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Body conditioning
Body conditioning depends on the Gender, Age and Ability of the trainee. What is expected of children is very different from what is expected of adults, and these expectations are again less than those of competitors.In this photo, a youth member is able to deliver full power kicks to the abdomen of one of the Seniors. The junior has the opportunity to train his technique, while the senior can correct the student and benefit from the stomach conditioning. |
Using large muscles
The use of large muscles through comlex movements like kicking burn a number of calories, as well as cleaning out the system of many impurities. At the Orchard Towers Dojo, we like to call sweat "Karate Oil". The body always works much better if we make a point of using Karate Oil!
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The Makiwara
Karateka make use of a Makiwara (literally translated as "Straw rope"), in the conditioning of the extremities, as well as developing correct body dynamics.The Makiwara provides resistance to the techniques, which develops feedback for the Karate student. |
Correct application
Correct application of technique and regular practice enable amazing feats like breaking a baseball bat with the shin. At right, Sempai Andrew prepares to snap a bat as though it were a twig.
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Weight Training
Weight training for Karateka is a vital ingredient for competition success, as well as a very positive activity for lifelong health. The majority of the Adult male OT members lift weights outside of class, some alone, some with fellow members.As our Martial Arts Centre continues to grow, it is likely that some in-house facilities will be added for those with an interest in resistance conditioning. |
Flexibility
Only dedicated training with an emphasis on stretching outside the Dojo will allow Karateka to develop this kind of flexibility. Josef (who has unfortunately moved to Australia) is seen kicking a point on the bag well over two metres above the ground.
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