Training on Your Own

            Unfortunately, I have had to spend a lot of time in Danse De Rue Savate training on my own.  I am lucky enough to have a dedicated student that is able to train twice a week on a consistent basis.  He helps me out by allowing me to teach him which in turn helps me learn more.  However, let me say there is no substitute for training with another group in class or informally.  But that being said, sometimes there is no choice.  And I also believe it is a good idea for all to spend some time each week out of class training and practicing on their own.

            When training on one’s own, I think it’s good to have a quiet place where you have no distractions.  I belong to a health club that has heavy bags (that are rarely used) in the aerobics room.  There are no distractions in the middle of the day in this room and the lights are turned out.  What I have found successful when working on my own is practicing different combinations on the bag for rounds.  This accomplishes two things: One is becoming fluent in different combinations than I’m already accustomed to throwing and the other is becoming better conditioned.  I usually go 3-4 minute rounds for anywhere from 6-10 rounds.  I also have the opportunity to work lots of technique on the basics.  Just slow everything down and go 50-75% speed.  Another idea is to practice techniques in which you feel clumsy and perhaps uncomfortable performing around others. 

            Just because there is no one to work out or practice with is not an excuse to not train.  This can be excellent time to fine tune a few things that have given you trouble.

Coach Mechanico               

Copyright 1994 - 2011