Turn up the Energy!!

Summer is here and a lot of people naturally seek to slow down, relax and recuperate.

As martial artists this is an important part of the training cycle. However it is important for all of us to remember to take regular breaks from working out and work so that we don’t experience general adaptation syndrome (G.A.S.) also known as burn.  In your workout routine whether in martial arts or other sports the training stages of G.A.S. are a necessary part of your training and have three distinct stages.

The first stage is fight or flight- this is when you train and your body starts to feel a little uncomfortable.

Second stage is called the resistance phase- this is when your body is driven by your mind to do more than it usually handles. For example you do 100 push ups rather than your normal 50, or you spar two more rounds than normal.

The third stage is the exhaustion stage- this is when you train to overload your muscle or cardio systems. This is where all growth happens.

Your instructor will gage this “overload” through frequency, duration and intensity of the training. Plan to relax as summer comes into full heat but keep into your minimum two - three trains a week so that you won’t experience the dreaded de-training let down.

We can rejuvenate with a combination of planned days off and choosing a positive thought of energy over the negative thought of energy .

Choose Energetic over Drained- consistently eliminate energy drainers in your life and replace them with energy gainers which are good food, positive thought and positive people… like your training partners.

Choose Strong over Weak-continue and plan to train on a frequent and regular basis to maximize recuperation you should have about 48 hours between hard training classes.

Choose Steady over Erratic- we can control our energy levels with proper nutrition rather than fool our self with junk food quick fixes.

Choose Rejuvenated over Depleted- we recharge and renew ourselves by taking time off for play and relaxation.

To fully maximize your chances of not getting general adaptation syndrome you must be conscious of your training cycle, nutritional considerations and keep your positive metal attitude of gratitude.

                                                      Respectfully,

                                                             Master Dan Zaleski