Monday, December 29, 2014

Train Hard, Stay Safe!


Hello Folks!


            Recent events around the Grand Avenue area have brought an important issue to my attention recently: self-defense. How do we defend ourselves in critical situations, and how can our strength training at NEXT LEVEL help us do so?

-Heavier Weight, Fewer Reps
            If sheer strength is what you are after, up the weights in your routine. Do 10 reps with 20 lbs instead of 20 reps with 10 lbs. This way, should you need to defend yourself, your muscle memory will remember what it feels like to exert more force in one motion, for example, when you block someone. Prepare your muscles for quick action.

-Deadlifts
            Deadlifts are a great example of a functional exercise because it works every muscle group (core, arms, legs). It strengthens multiple areas while working on your balance, which is key in self-defense. By maintaining your balance, you’re less likely to be physically caught off guard in a precarious situation, so you’ll be able to respond quicker.

-Speed
            Sprints: Cone to Cone drills, Ticket Booth 2 Ticket Booth. Course 1/2 A & Course A runs. They may not be your favorite exercises but they will enhance your speed and agility! You want to be confident in your ability to move fast and effectively at the drop of a hat! These exercises improve your chances of making a fast get away or physically reacting sooner. Practice!

-Be Aware
            Strength training requires an awareness of your body and how it responds to different stressors. When training try to be more mindful of your movements and focus upon how you move in your spaceYou should always be aware of your surroundings and any potential threats that might occur. Put down the phone and look around you! There’s a lot going on outside your personal little bubble!


NEXT LEVEL FAMILY, I know that self-defense is not the happiest topic to discuss, but it’s an important one. Your safety is our NUMBER ONE PRIORITY. We want you to know that by training yourself, you are not only becoming physically stronger, but also utilizing tools that will protect you in the—hopefully unlikely—chance of an emergency. We want you to feel confident in your ability to take care of yourself!

PS. I send out some protocols when coming to the facility early in the morning. If you would like for me to resend. Please let me know.

Keep training—

Dr. Abu Pigott
Aurora Baxter