Planning Year-Round Strength & Conditioning for Combat Sports

2-3 minute read

By Jason Lau

Effective training for combat sports requires a strategic approach, focusing on strength and conditioning throughout the year. This is essential for both hobbyists and competitive fighters who want to improve their performance and maintain peak physical condition.

Assessing the Athlete's Situation

The first step in developing a year-round training plan is understanding the athlete's current situation. Consider weekly availability for training, which includes evaluating current skill practice schedules and athletic baselines. Additionally, account for other commitments, such as full-time jobs or family obligations. This comprehensive assessment will help tailor a training program that fits into the athlete's lifestyle while ensuring consistent progress.

Understanding Combat Sport Demands

Different combat sports have unique physical demands that dictate training focuses. For example, sports that rely heavily on grinding strength may require a different strength training approach than those that emphasize explosive, ballistic movements. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective training programming, allowing athletes to develop the specific qualities necessary for their sport.

Training Around Fight Camps

An essential aspect of planning year-round training is structuring workouts around fight camps and periods outside of competition. For competitive fighters, this means adjusting training intensity and focus as they approach a fight, ensuring optimal preparation. For hobbyists, establishing a consistent training routine with variation in intensity and volume will help improve overall skills while preventing burnout.

Watch the Full Webinar for More Insights

For those interested in a more in-depth understanding of planning year-round strength and conditioning for combat sports, I invite you to watch my full webinar. It covers the nuances of creating effective training plans tailored to individual needs, helping both hobbyists and fighters achieve their goals in a structured manner. Follow the link below to watch the full webinar.