bIgjOe said:
I personally believe that using that stuff as a complete system in itself is inadequate if you are ALREADY in really good shape. I tryed it as a replacement for lifting and running, then for just lifting, then I only lifted on some days and did this others, then I went back to lifting and running and got my strength back! I think it is something great to start with though, it was mildly taxing and a good supplement for fight training.
Joe,
I think you are right in some ways, but miss part of the story. Bodyweight exercises are better suited for people who already have FUNCTIONAL STRENGTH, but can also be initiated by those without much functional strength, with some difficulty. My suggestion to anyone starting this type of training is to begin on a solid
weight training program to build up some strength and try to do the exercises on your off days. This way, you will still be building strength when you can only do a few reps/two reps/no reps. When you have a solid foundation of strength, the combat training can take you to new levels while maintaining most of your strength you acheived from
weight lifting, and add more balance, flexibility, and endurance in the process.
Martial arts takes a different type of strength than Met-RX World's Strongest Man. Martial artists need quickness, balance, flexibility, mental toughness, and body awareness. I think that Matt Furey's combat conditioning does a great job of building these qualities, moreso than most
weight lifting regiments. A good 5 x 5 system of compound
weight lifting is a good supplement to combat conditioning as well.
Samz,
I have been doing combat conditioning on and off for six years, and for the past year I have been going all-on. I can say your bridge WILL improve, it will just take time. Work on using your hands to assist you and also bridge up on your toes. Work on touching your nose to the ground. Don't worry about how long you hold it at first until you can sustain the nosed-out position for a considerable amount of time. Once you can hold this position for three minutes, you can advance.
The next time, try crossing your arms as you fall into the nosed-out position. If that becomes easy, try flattening your feet. Once that is easy, continually work your feet closer to your head as you bridge.
I recommend combat abs as well, and would actually say this is even better than combat conditioning itself. If you think your core is in good shape--think again. Try combat abs and see if they are really what you think they are!
If you have any specific questions about these programs, PM me, because I have quite a bit of experience with all of the exercises in the manuals.