3 Ways to OPTIMISE Your Sparring Cardio And Decrease Injuries
If you've ever found yourself struggling to keep up with the pace during sparring sessions
Blame it on the old-school methods and outdated coaching techniques that are still far too common in the world of boxing today.
These archaic approaches not only hinder the progress of thousands of amateur boxers around the world
But also put their long-term health at risk. Let me explain…
Traditional running, with its repetitive impact on your joints, is a silent destroyer.
It might not hurt now, but it's setting you up for a future filled with stiff knees, small stress fractures, and all the joys that come with an early hip replacement.
But fear not, for in this post, we'll introduce you to three cutting-edge methods that will not only help you increase your sparring cardio but also drastically decrease the risk of injuries
By taking away copious amounts of stress from the joints and allowing you to get fit without forcing your body to take the hit.
These methods are backed by sports science and have been used by champions like Canelo Alvarez to outshine their opponents in the ring.
Let's dive into how each of these techniques can benefit you as you seek to improve your sparring endurance while protecting your joints from future pain.
Curved Treadmill
What is it?
The curved treadmill is a game-changer for those who've suffered from the relentless pounding of traditional running. Unlike flat treadmills, this machine boasts a unique design that mirrors the natural arc of running or sprinting, encouraging proper running form.
Benefits for you
Improved running form: Enhance your footwork and agility by embracing the natural and efficient running gait promoted by the curved treadmill.
Less strain, fewer injuries: Reduce the risk of joint strain, ensuring that you can sustain your training without risking injury or the agony of future joint problems.
Versatile workouts: The curved treadmill is adaptable to your needs, whether it's for building endurance, explosive sprints, or high-intensity exercises.
Negatives to Consider
Limited access: Find a gym with this equipment, if possible, to experience its benefits.
Learning curve: Adjusting to the curved surface might take a little time, but the results will be well worth the effort.
Different ways to use it
Endurance: Begin with a steady jog for 20-30 minutes, gradually increasing your speed and incline. Perform 5 rounds with a 2-minute rest between rounds.
Sprints: Execute sprint intervals by running at maximum effort for 20-30 seconds, followed by a brief 1-minute rest. Complete 8 rounds.
High intensity: Combine sprint intervals with bodyweight exercises like burpees or push-ups to create a challenging circuit. Run for 20 seconds, then perform 10 burpees, and rest for 1 minute. Repeat for 5 rounds.
Assault Bike
What is it?
The assault bike, also known as an air bike, provides a full-body workout that can significantly improve your sparring endurance. It engages both your upper and lower body simultaneously, using air resistance to adjust to your effort level.
Benefits for you
Full-body workout: Strengthen your legs, arms, and core, ensuring you're physically prepared for the rigors of the ring and protecting yourself from joint problems in the future.
Joint-friendly: Reduce the risk of overuse injuries, which can be particularly concerning for those who struggle with cardio and wish to avoid painful joint issues.
Tailored intensity: Adjust the resistance to match your fitness level and specific training goals.
Negatives to Consider
Initial challenge: Be prepared for a tough workout. The assault bike can be intimidating, especially for beginners.
Potential monotony: Long sessions on the bike may feel less exciting than other workouts, but the results speak for themselves.
Different ways to use it
Endurance: Cycle at a moderate pace for 30-60 minutes, focusing on steady breathing. Perform 3 rounds with a 5-minute rest between rounds.
Sprints: Push yourself to the limit with short, intense sprints of 20-30 seconds, followed by a 1-2 minute rest. Complete 6 rounds.
High intensity: Combine quick bursts of intense pedaling with active recovery, such as bodyweight squats or kettlebell swings. Pedal all-out for 20 seconds, then perform 15 bodyweight squats and rest for 1 minute. Repeat for 4 rounds.
Altitude Training
What is it?
Altitude training involves exercising at high altitudes where oxygen levels are lower. This method forces your body to adapt to reduced oxygen, increasing your red blood cell count and overall endurance.
Benefits for you
Enhanced oxygen efficiency: Improve your stamina during sparring sessions by enhancing your body's ability to utilize oxygen, sparing you the pain of running out of breath.
Mental toughness: Develop mental resilience, a crucial asset when you're pushing your limits in the ring.
Performance boost: When you return to lower altitudes, you'll find that your endurance and energy levels have skyrocketed, giving you the upper hand in sparring sessions.
Negatives to Consider
Limited availability: Not everyone has easy access to high-altitude training facilities, so this option might not be viable for everyone.
Initial discomfort: Training at altitude can be physically taxing, but it's essential to give your body time to adapt.
Different ways to use it
Endurance: Embrace long-distance runs or extended sparring sessions at high altitudes to develop your endurance gradually. Run for 30 minutes at 80% effort with a 10-minute rest between rounds.
Sprints: Integrate short, intense sprints into your altitude training, allowing you to adapt to the oxygen-deprived environment while honing your explosive power. Sprint all-out for 30 seconds, then rest for 2 minutes. Complete 5 rounds.
High intensity: Combine altitude training with strength and conditioning exercises to build overall fitness. Run for 20 seconds, then perform 15 kettlebell swings, and rest for 1 minute. Repeat for 4 rounds.
Conclusion
If you've been struggling with sparring cardio, these three cutting-edge methods can transform your training routine and elevate your performance in the ring
While taking the immense pressure off your joints that is found in traditional running.
So if you want to join the next generation of high-performance, low-injury boxers…
Then curved treadmills, assault bikes, and altitude training are your secret weapons.
These techniques improve your endurance, agility, and mental toughness while ensuring that you won't suffer from joint pains in the future.
So now that you are well informed on how to optimize your performance and decrease your injuries there is only one thing left for YOU TO DO…
Train hard, train smart, and make 2023 the year you dominate the boxing world.
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