Indian Clubs were used to train for combat sports because it's many swings follow the pathways used by a variety of martial arts. This installment will present the parallel swing. The parallel swing uses the motion of turning from one side to the other. Toes, knees hip can be locked forward when performing one version of this swing. Performed in this manner, the work is placed on the core and shoulders. A less formal or rigid version … [Read more...]
A Look To The Future
In the previous installments, I have introduced inner and outer heart shaped swings. The lead up movements to the swings were simple straight arm swings that travelled on the same pathway. All of the traditional club swings are done working the upper body. I will introduce combination moves that utilize lower body movements, thus creating an opportunity for total body work. A quote from the " Art of War" states " When the officers are too … [Read more...]
Balance In Training and Living
Last installment introduced you to the outer heart shaped swing. My contribution is at a bi-monthly rate so an adequate amount of practice time has passed. The inner heart shaped swing travels in the opposite direction and works the engaged muscles in the opposite way. Balancing the muscle work makes it easier on the muscles and skeletal structure to perform optimally and safely. Easiest way to start is at the cross chest position you are … [Read more...]
We Go Round In Circles
Gyrotonics is a relatively new system of physical fitness. Juliu Horvath created the system in the late 1970's. He combined the dance and gymnastic training of his youth with a passion for woodworking. The end result was a machine that allowed the body to move resistance in circles, arcs and angles not available with conventional equipment. Exercise could now move in the more natural range of motion. A newer and yet another application of … [Read more...]
Practice Makes Permanent
The old axiom " practice makes perfect" was altered over the last decades to a more correct "practice makes permanent." You must practice using the correct motor pathway and technique repeatedly to make permanent the learning. When learning how to swing traditional Indian Clubs you have a formal stance with your heels together and toes pointing out at a 45 degree angle. When doing techniques from this stance, the pull on the back and hips tax … [Read more...]
Fact Fiction Form Function Of Indian Clubs
Indian Clubs gained it’s name from the British Officers and Officials that observed their use by the indigenous peoples of India during their colonization period which lasted to the last century. Observers noted the powerful yet lithe physiques of the practioners and felt this form of exercise would be beneficial . The British cataloged the techniques and brought it back to their country where it was systemized and introduced into their … [Read more...]