Strength Training for karate!!!

daringtiger · Post by **daringtiger** » Mon Apr 30, 2007 3:44 pm

Can Anyone suggest a weight training routine that would help me in martial arts.I want to know the number of sets and reps in each set and also a training routine that I should undergo to increase strength and muscle without any loss in speed.I read somewhere that weight training creates bulky muscles which would slow one down.But I also heard that if we train in a specific manner...then we could increase our muscle mass and strength without any loss in our speed.But I dont know the training routine to be undergone for this purpose.So If anybody know about such training method...please share your knowledge.

swanso5 · Post by **swanso5** » Mon Apr 30, 2007 4:07 pm

search "hammer down strength" by chad waterbury and do it

com34x · Post by **com34x** » Tue May 01, 2007 2:46 pm

Why not just train at really low reps? Say 1-4 just to build strength? Unless your eating a lot more calories your not really going to get much larger muscles. They will just be stronger and firmer.

Also, I've never actually seen this but I have used a cable system to create what I call a "resistance punch" I set the cable at about shoulder height, grab the handle and do punches.

Overall I think you will get stronger and not bulk up. So thats not really an issue. Just use heavy weight but enough to do only a few reps. I think the range of 8-12 will build mass. Higher I believe is for endurance and body fat burning.

Not sure If I've helped you at all. Let me know if this helps you any.

swanso5 · Post by **swanso5** » Wed May 02, 2007 3:37 pm

using too much wt on the punches will actually make you slower so make sure speed is compromised at all when loading punches, kicks etc

daringtiger · Post by **daringtiger** » Thu May 03, 2007 11:31 am

First of all I thank everyone for sparing their precious time for answering question.But I still have some doubts remaining.From all your replies I have reached a conclusion.....that using heavy weights for lower reps will increase strength without bulking.But will it decrease speed or increase speed.Thats doubt.Also One thing friends I dont mind whether I bulk (with muscle) or not if speed improves with that gain in muscle.

com34x · Post by **com34x** » Thu May 03, 2007 12:02 pm

I am going to say right now that I am not sure about the speed issue. I know for a fact that it wouldn't affect flexibility. It actually helps. I am going to guess that it would not affect speed, but you'll have to do some researching on your own. Sure there is more weight on your arms, but your also stronger and and carry that extra weight.

What good is the speed if you can't hurt someone? I rather take strength anyday when it comes to a one on one street confrontation.

These are only thoughts. Research and come to your own conclusions.

Good luck!!

swanso5 · Post by **swanso5** » Fri May 04, 2007 12:52 am

even without training for speed, you'll get faster simply by getting stronger...getting bigger may hinder speed because you have more body mass to move but eventually you'll need to get bogger to get stronger but as long as you continue training it will be alright