How do you get better at Martial Arts when you are not at the Studio / Dojo / Dojang / Whatever you call your practice place? Not surprisingly you can do what a lot of other sports do just organized in a more specific to Martial Arts kind of way. Below is a quick list of what I could come up with. If you have any suggestions please leave a comment.
1. Stretch
Flexibility is one of the most important aspects of Martial Arts in order to kick high and have proper stances. However, being flexible also decreases your likelihood of getting injured and increases your ability to use proper technique in all sports and exercises.
2. Lift Weights
Lifting weights is something everyone should make time for 2 - 3 times a week. It helps in gaining both strength and flexibility. Lifitng can be an extremely beneficial event if you are an older individual because a lot of studies have shown that lifting weights increases bone density throughout your life. Lifting also helps you body gain more muscle, which takes more energy to maintain, which increases your metabolism which can lead to healthy weight loss with proper diet.
Make sure you cover all parts of your body with weight lifting. You will receive a greater benefit and weight loss if you lift you entire body during a session rather than just lifting your arms one day and your legs the next.
3. Aerobic Exercise
Martial Arts is Hard Work. You need to be able to do things many, many times. To do this you better be in good Aerobic shape. Even Running, Biking, Stair stepping, or using an Elliptical machine for a half an hour every other day will have huge Aerobic benefits for you Martial Arts exercises.
4. Yoga
Yoga is a popular, low-impact way of gaining flexibility and strength for later use in Martial Arts. Plus, it brings a healthy cleansing to your body.
5. Meditate
There is nothing like mediation to clear your mind and help you focus on what is important in life. You can use Mediation to relax or to focus on memorizing techniques or forms. Either way is good for the mind and soul.
Bonus: Eat right. Don’t eat a bunch of junk everyday and think that is doesn’t affect the way you feel physically and mentally. Eat healthy and feel better in everything you do.
