
Conditioning The Body by Master Eric P. Laino
Now, we in the Martial Arts community, especially Hapkido, understand the time and effort it takes to put in the training hours on the mat. There are many who brag about the number of mat hours that they put in. However, I feel that many martial artists lack in their focus on Body Conditioning. No technique will matter in a violent encounter if lack the speed, timing, flexibility, and strength to properly execute them. That is why it is not enough to just train and practice techniques today. You must make conditioning a priority in your daily training. It should be an essential part of your martial arts lifestyle.

Especially with the rise of MMA and other combat sport/arts out there today that have extensive knowledge of Body Conditioning.

I have learned from my masters that you can have the fastest punches and kicks in the world but, if you’re winded after 20 seconds in any kind of altercation or a simple leg kick to your thigh or shins makes you drop like a sack of potatoes, you have already lost.

My Hapkido masters have always taught me that you must not only train, but you must also Condition your body, and mind into a weapon.

There was a time when you could simply rely on techniques to get you through the battle. But with today’s sedentary lifestyle that alone just won’t cut it. In Hapkido I was taught by my masters to condition the hands, arms, legs, all parts of your body, while still maintaining maximum flexibility.

A strong body can resist blows and a strong mind can help you develop a warrior’s spirit. We would even condition ourselves to take blows to the face and head as much as that may intimidate some of us, that’s just the reality of the situation.

So, train AND Condition! Keep training and keep striving to be your best self, HAPKI! I invite you to follow me on Instagram.

About the author: Eric P. Laino is a 5th Dan Master with the USA Hapkido Union and 5th Dan American JaeMuKwan Hapkido Association. He is the Sparring Coach for the USA Hapkido Union Team and the N.C. State Representative for the USA Hapkido Union, Inc.
To host a seminar with Master Eric Laino call or text him directly at Phone: (570) 242-4963.
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