Martial Arts Training - Martial Artists Need to Gain Upper Body Strength - Start With Pull-Ups

Strength is required in many of the martial arts. TheThere are numerous variations on the standard
stronger and more conditioned you are the easier it ispull-up. You can pull yourself up until your chest
for you to perform techniques and learn new ones.touches the bar. You can pull yourself up and touch
However, martial artists are not the only ones thatthe back of your neck to the bar. You can pull your
can benefit from increased strength. Physical fitnessknees to your chest as you pull yourself up (make
is as valuable to someone that sits at a computer allsure to not arch your lower back). You can raise
day. Pull-ups are an easy way to gain strength notyour legs in front of you to form an "L" with your
only in your arms and shoulders but in many musclebody. These are advanced routines that work
groups in your body. As always, consult with yourdifferent muscle groups.
doctor before beginning any new exercise routine.Another simple variation is the wide grip pull-up. Grip
Chin-ups are a little easier to start with if you arethe bar with your hands as far apart as is
new to strength training. Pull-ups place more emphasiscomfortable. This variation works less with the biceps
on the back and the forearms. Simply hang from aand more with the back muscles. Pull-ups are one of
bar with your hands slightly wider than your shouldersthe best back builders. If you are a martial artist,
and your palms facing away from you. Pull yourselfthinking about getting into martial arts or just looking
up until your chin is over the bar. Lower yourself untilto increase strength, start with chin-ups and advance
your arms are straight and repeat. Start with threeto pull-ups. Start slow but be consistent and you will
sets of ten repetitions. Add sets and repetitions asgradually build up strength. Just as learning a style of
your strength increases.martial arts, gaining strength takes time.