Is warming up before martial arts training necessary? Yes! The importance of a warm-up before any type of workout, including martial arts, should never be overlooked.
Here are a few reasons why warming up is so important:
Physical Preparation
Warming up before a martial arts workout physically prepares you to train well and get the most out of your training. By taking five to ten minutes to warm-up, you’ll also decrease your chances of getting injured. A warm-up:
- Increases blood flow and circulation
- Warms up your muscles and joints
- Elevates your heart rate and body temperature
Mental Preparation
Warming up also mentally prepares you for training. If you show up for a workout, it can be hard to shake off the day’s stress. But by taking the time to warm-up, you’ll prepare your mind for your time on the mat. As you transition away from your daily life to your training, you get in the right mindset needed to focus on your form. Rather than getting caught off guard by a partner’s movements, you’ll be better prepared to react appropriately.
General to Specific
A typical warm-up starts with general movements that use the larger muscles in your body. Initially, you start with things like jogging or jumping rope. As your muscles and joints get warm, you can move on to more specific movements and exercises. Depending on your workout, it’s a good idea to include some of the movements you’ll be focusing on during your training.
Low to High Intensity
As your warm-up moves from general to specific movements, the intensity of those movements will also shift. As you’re getting started with your warm-up, it’s a good idea to start slowly, at a low intensity. Again, as your heart rate and body temperature gradually increase, you can start increasing the intensity of your movements. As you move through your warm-up, your joints will be better prepared for faster movements and heavier loads.
To learn more about the classes we’re currently offering at Classic Fight Team in Fountain Valley, contact us today.
