BestBuyMAS Posting Page
Saturday, November 14, 2009
I cannot tell you how many times I've heard my coaches and karate instructors say, "You've got to stretch if you are going to be successful." When I was younger and played basketball I was like, "Ok, whatever." I could never see much of a reason to stretch and I always felt like it was a waste of time. Now that I'm older (26) I could kick myself for not taking the time to stretch when I was younger.

Let me tell you straight off, "Stretching is NOT a waste of time and should be a regular part of your martial arts training." It doesn't matter if you practice a striking art or a grappling one, you need to stretch and improve your flexibility if you truly want to be the best.

A general stretching routine that you perform 4 or 5 times a week should be good for almost everyone. You need to make sure that you stretch your upper body as well as your lower body. If you can get a partner to help you stretch then by all means do so. If you cant get a partner then you need to invest in some equipment to help you stretch. There are options for every budget and these tools can help you improve your splits, get your kicks head level, or achieve a more flexible guard. Century and Proforce both make stretching machines and Flex-a-Tron has a good one for those on a budget.

When you are stretching make sure to hold your stretch for roughly 30 seconds. If you hold it for any less time then you wont achieve what you want. When you are stretching if you feel discomfort then don't push it. If you are new to stretching then I would suggest doing a bit of research before you begin a routine.

-The Last Ronin-
www.associatedcontent.com/thelastronin
http://www.roninmma.blogspot.com/
www.ehow.com/members/thelastronin.html


by: BestBuyMAS

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