With the Region Six annual Fall-cycle Dan test and Championship coming up next month, it is important to focus on one’s physical condition, endurance and flexibility, as well as the performance of forms, etc. This is a good time to review your diet and exercise/training plan, and stay healthy. Let’s start at the beginning– the fuel you put in your body…
Eating quality fresh foods, good, lean protein and drinking plenty of toxin-flushing water is key. Be an “ingredient reader” and check labels on your favorite foods. Are they really healthy or full of empty calories? When you cut back on sugars, empty carbs, fatty snacks and soft drinks, it’s not only a good way to lose weight and feel better, but a great way to start healthy habits to keep for a lifetime. The fuel you put in your car helps it move with efficiency and performance. The fuel you put in your body does the same. Think about it.
Physical exercise is also essential. Some experts claim if you exercise just 15 minutes a day, you can prolong your life by several years. Martial artists should always keep up a regular exercise and training routine, but during tournament time, it’s important not to over-do and risk injury. Go through your training time carefully, with power, but don’t strain yourself. Always remember to warm up first, stretch, then cool down and stretch. Don’t just jump into your exercises cold. You risk pulling a muscle that could effect your ability to perform.
Lastly, get plenty of rest. Lack of sleep can affect your mental and physical performance greatly. If you can’t get the “recommended” eight hours of sleep every night, go for at least seven. When you train, be mindful that your metabolism is ramping up and more demands are being made on your body. The sleep/rest process gives your body time to repair, rebuild and reset itself for the next day’s activities.
We wish all our competitors much success at the Region Six Tournament in Florence, AL next month. Tang Soo!
