Empowered Cross Training For Health

Cross training in various applications will create "neuromuscular efficiency". This is far superior to being satisfied with strict muscle building. As a practicing martial artist and fitness lover, I have seen the full spectrum from weight training, to aerobic only training, to anaerobic training only...over the years. I have seen and heard most of it. I have also cross-trained in most of it as well. i guess you could say that I have "been there, done that , and got the tee shirt".

I have become a big believer in the "muscle confusion principle" which ties in with the "neuromuscular efficiency principle". Do you know where real punching power is generated and released? It is in the final inch or two of motion. Legendary martial artist Bruce Lee, was known for demonstrating this fact with his famous "one inch punch". Lee would position his fist just one inch in front of the abdomen of a subject and without moving his hand backward whatsoever...would unleash a punch that would life the subject off his feet and launch him in to a waiting chair several feet behind him.

Many boxing and martial arts techniques involve intercepting or redirecting an opponent's punch or kick before it reaches full extension. These techniques are only possible because of the reduced energy contained in a punch or kick before full extension.

Any serious boxer or martial artist will throw thousands of punches over his or her training career. A pro will throw millions. These repetitions build efficiency into the neuromuscular pathways between the brain and muscles. It's these many repetitions that make throwing a fast, accurate, and effective punch second nature. However, all those repetitions do virtually nothing to develop strength in the muscles.

If you want big power...you are going to have to pump some iron. Heavy iron. Think of that "one inch punch" It is not merely hand speed or delivery technique that launches the opponent into the air. It is muscle power anchored on the ground by leg muscles and transmitted through the muscles of the shoulder and arms.

The combination of weight training and aerobic training done in a confusing state never allows the muscle to "get comfortable" Muscles develop that "muscle memory" which can over time, cause that "plateau" that we have all experienced.

Whether you train in martial arts, are a weight lifter, fitness trainer, or where ever your passion for training takes you...confusing the muscles and developing that neuromuscular efficiency will take your training, lean muscle mass, and overall strength to new heights. It will most assuredly "Empower You".