Squatting & Punching

To begin. We need a base, a foundation. That base lies in our Biomechanics. In any physical activity, it is essential to understand how the body functions best during any given task. With fitness clients ,it usually starts with the Squat, or more accurately, can they stand and sit properly. Most cannot. By guiding them through the kinetic chain, I can lead the horse to water. While I have them under my coaching, I can also get them to drink. To understand and to get in tune with their body, even if just a little.

When it comes to combat applications. I always start with the Straight Lead(not a jab). Hailed by many as the ultimate tool. For me, however, it is not in the combat application of the technique, but how it opens the mind up to the application of the body. First, I show them how it is done, then explain the theory behind it, then we reverse engineer it and expose every component of the movement. The same application is used in my ‘fitness’ training mode.

Break it down and rebuild it. By doing this, we understand the true beauty of it. Physically and mentally. Something my brothers from The Art of Functional Movement are firm believers in as well. We all have two arms and two legs. So it should not have to be confusing at all. Even if you do not have two arms and two legs, for that matter. We can quite easily attain that understanding if we stop trying to skip to the end of the process. We are an analytical lifeform. Nature made sure of it. So using this talent is a must and a skill we can apply to all areas of our life.

When we lay a strong foundation, we can build a strong house. So it is important that we pay special attention to the basics, if we wish to build upon them. When it comes to construction. We require the correct tools and materials to build with. We all have the correct materials, but the tools are a little trickier in this modern day and age. Lost or hidden from us by the money hungry and misinformed. I am not being cynical here. I am simply calling it the way I so often see it. But I digress……

So, finally. An example. Where does the kinetic chain begin and end?
It begins in the feet and ends in the hands.
With a squat, your feet will determine the entire alignment of your body. What you do with your hands will connect the chain. There are different options for different effects and body types, but the principal remains the same.
With the straight lead your feet will do the same, along with distancing etc. The hand is just the delivery tool, connecting the chain(power line, in the case of striking).
The correct repetition of these ensure the neuro-muscular pathways stay open and effective. Allowing us to function efficiently in everyday life. Not just in the gym. That my friends is the key to it all.

I hope you enjoyed my latest blog. Please share if you thought it interesting enough.

Until next time, take care.