Evolve MMA’s Post

A Reflection of a Fitness Trainer and Martial Artist On Stoicism and Fitness {And How we can apply Stoic Philosophy to our Physical Training} If you are a Stoic, you always keep two separate files in your mind. One file, for things that are “up to you,” or within your control, and the other file, for things that are “not up to you.” The things beyond your control cause fear and anxiety. The things within your control are the proper subjects for your total focus and involvement. In Karate (and by extension Tae Kwon Do, Judo, Aikido, Jet Kune Do), this difference is held within the concept of Do, or “way.” Choosing a particular way is not the same as accepting fate—rather, a “way” involves the external context, plus your own mind and will. The Stoics found it very important not to complain about the place you’re in, but to focus on yourself. So, how would you apply Stoicism to fitness and life in general? Suppose you want to lose fat, your doctor has warned you of not so good probable consequences. You don't have a job, you can't afford gym membership, you feel bad about how you look and how you feel, and probably your wife or husband has left you. In such a situation, what is within your control, what is outside your control? Well, it is within your control to walk at least a few meters or 1 km a day, it is within your control to reduce the intake of junk food, it is within your control to reduce the portion of the food you eat. Therefore you focus on that. On the other hand, you're not in control of when you will get a job and how your partner feels about you. Therefore, those are not proper objects of focus. In the end, stoicism is about personal responsibility. It is about doing what you can with what you have, here and now. It is an extremely empowering school of thought. Probably the reason why it has always been attractive to the warrior class. For the warrior, you don't have control over the outcome of war, or death, but you have full control of your preparation. Therefore, that's where your focus should be. PS: the "Do" in Korean and Japanese means "the way or the path"

The Transformative Power of Mixed Martial Arts: A Personal Journey Over the past four years, my involvement in mixed martial arts (MMA) has been nothing short of transformative. What began as a curiosity has evolved into a lifestyle that has profoundly impacted every facet of my being. From discipline to mental resilience, comradeship to physical fitness, MMA has been a catalyst for positive change, reshaping my perspective on life and empowering me to overcome obstacles with newfound strength. Discipline is the cornerstone of success in any endeavor, and MMA instills it in abundance. The rigorous training regimen demands commitment and consistency, teaching me the value of hard work and perseverance. Whether it's mastering a new technique or pushing through fatigue during sparring sessions, the discipline cultivated in the gym translates seamlessly into other areas of life, fostering a proactive approach to challenges and goals. Beyond the physical aspects, MMA has fostered a deep appreciation for comradeship. In the gym, I've found a community of like-minded individuals bound by a shared passion for martial arts. Together, we endure the grueling workouts, celebrate victories, and support each other through setbacks. The camaraderie extends beyond the mat, creating lasting friendships built on mutual respect and a shared journey of self-improvement. One of the most profound lessons MMA has taught me is the ability to confront obstacles head-on and find solutions to overcome them. Every sparring session presents a new challenge, whether it's a formidable opponent or a technical problem to solve. Through trial and error, I've learned to adapt my strategies, refine my techniques, and persevere in the face of adversity. This resilience extends beyond the gym, empowering me to tackle life's challenges with confidence and determination. Mental health is a topic of increasing importance, and MMA has been a powerful tool in managing my anxiety. The intensity of training serves as a cathartic outlet, allowing me to channel my energy and frustrations into productive pursuits. Moreover, MMA has been instrumental in channeling my energy into a positive direction. As someone with a naturally high level of energy, I've often struggled to find constructive outlets for it. MMA provides an exhilarating avenue for self-expression, allowing me to unleash my passion and drive in a productive and meaningful way. Last but not least, the physical benefits of MMA are undeniable. The combination of strength, cardio, and flexibility training results in a level of fitness that transcends the confines of the gym. Improved endurance, agility, and coordination enhance not only my performance in martial arts but also my quality of life outside of training. #MixedMartialArts #MMACommunity #Discipline #ResilienceTraining #MentalHealthAwareness #FitnessJourney #AnxietyRelief #personalgrowth #physicalwellness #lifetransformation

In February, our students are learning to set Fitness Goals at Premier Martial Arts. Here are four ways to improve practice at home. Start training with us at PremierMartialArts.com #kravmaga #kravmagatraining #selfdefense #training

In February, our students are learning to set Fitness Goals at Premier Martial Arts. Here are four ways to improve practice at home. Start training with us at PremierMartialArts.com #kravmaga #kravmagatraining #selfdefense #training

Fast Acting Stress Relief! It is common knowledge that exercise helps relieve stress. When you exercise, your body will release endorphins which will reduce your stress levels. What is not so commonly known is that martial arts are one of the top ways to blow off all that stress and frustration built up after a hard week at work or study. With a traditional martial, such as karate, king-fu or taekwon-do, you get all the usual benefits of any other workout, such as going down the gym, to an aerobics class, for a run, playing tennis or football. In addition there are a whole host of added benefits to help blow away all that stress. There aren’t many better ways of getting rid of all that pent up stress than hitting something as hard as you can. At Brighton & Hove Taekwon-Do we do a lot of padwork. Padwork is where you get to learn, develop and test out your Taekwon-Do techniques striking, kicking and punching pads. But it is not just pads, as you progress up through the grades you will find great enjoyment in learning to smash boards. Often when the stress gets too much you feel like you want to break something, at Brighton & Hove Taekwon-Do you can! Martial arts involve mental discipline. The focus required to work on and develop the different aspects of your Taekwon-Do means it totally takes your mind off the stresses and anxiety in your daily life. A great way to take you away from all the problems you are going through and just focus on yourself. The meditative aspects of martial arts, such as breathing techniques and visualization exercises, will help calm the mind and reduce stress levels. MARTIAL ARTS ARE A GREAT FORM OF MINDFULNESS. Although martial arts training is not a team sport, when you go to your Taekwon-Do class you are training in a group of like-minded people who will always offer support and encouragement so it feels like you are part of a team. Meeting up a couple of times a week with your martial arts buddies is another great way to chill out during the week. MARTIAL ARTS ARE A GREAT WAY TO REDUCE STRESS AND IMPROVE MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELL-BEING. Adults Martial Arts Classes 5 days week across Brighton & Hove. Book your first class kicking stress into touch: https://rebrand.ly/TKD123 #brighton #hove #taekwondo #brightonmartialarts #martialarts #beginners #beginnerswelcome #challengeyourself #martialarts #fightingfit #girlsinmartialarts #friendsforlife #friends #friendsforever #fitness #selfdefence #somethingnew #strongwoman #stressrelief #stress #anxietyrelief #stressmanagement #selfcare #anxiety #mentalhealth #wellness #relax #meditation #asmr #health #healthylifestyle #relaxation #satisfying #mindfulness #stressfree #healing #selflove #relaxing #stressreliever #mentalhealthawareness

We are taking fitness workshops for corporates and groups. Let me know if you want to do something different for your team. #Grow #stronger and #wiser! #personalgrowth #healthandwellness #wellbeing #hardwork

𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧 𝐖𝐢𝐜𝐤’𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐜𝐨𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭-𝐥𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 Rocky had one. James Bond had one. Heck, even Gary Johnston from Team America: World Police had one. So why should our favorite anti-hero NOT have a training montage? (And for those who HAVE seen Chapter 4, no, Wick punching a karate makiwara doesn’t count) Well, even though nobody asked me, if John Wick had called me, offered a few of those gold coins he gives to his underworld buddies, and said “train me. I need to kick some serious tush” here’s what I would have had him do: #𝟏: 𝐝𝐨 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐦𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐚𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐣𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞. He’d be on his own there since I don’t specialize in either of those things, but let’s face it: the SAID principle (Specific Adaptations to Imposed Demands) requires that you do the things you want to get good at. Yes, phenomena like carryover of skills do exist, but if you’re about to take on the High Table, do you really wanna take your chances? #𝟐: 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐚 ‘𝐛𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐠’ 𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞. Sure, a Kevlar suit wouldn’t hurt for this, but I’m talking more about his muscles and joints: how can THEY be trained to take a whippin’ and let him keep on kickin’? Odd angle movements for the ankles, knees, hips, back, and shoulders would be paramount, as would some good old fashioned flexibility training to keep him limber for all those judo throws and jiu jitsu moves. #𝟑: 𝐔𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤. If the opening scene is anything to go by (again, no spoilers, so don’t worry), John has access to kettlebells. So why not use them? Loaded carries, crawling, and other drills that blend strength with conditioning would be high on the list. If you’re gonna take on anyone, it helps to be able to outlast them. But if you’re gonna take on EVERYONE? Well, you’d better be strong AND conditioned like a race horse. Now, I can't promise you'll end up with a legendary status like everyone's favorite butt-kicker, but if you are keen to at least take a few steps closer to that (while also outperforming your rapidly growing kiddos year after year) you might dig my 𝟗-𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐭𝐞 𝐊𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐁𝐨𝐝𝐲𝐰𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞. Get your free copy here: https://lnkd.in/gbNDePW5 Have fun and happy training! #JohnWickChapter4 #JohnWick4 #johnwickmovie #snatch #snatches #kettlebells #kettlebellworkout #kettlebellswings #kettlebelltraining #kettlebellflow #kettlebellsnatch #strength #strengthtraining #strong #strongfirst #movement #movementculture #glutes #gluteworkout #simpleandsinister #glutegains #backworkout #fullbodyworkout #powerlifting #crossfit #kettlebellsport #Omaha #nebraska

🛡️ Which Martial Art is Best for Self-Defense? 🛡️ Choosing the right martial art for self-defense can be challenging. Each discipline offers unique techniques and benefits. Self-defense is more crucial than ever in a society that is becoming more and more unpredictable. Learning a martial art may be a very useful skill, whether you're wanting to improve your physical and mental well-being or are just commuting through Gurgaon's congested streets. But how can you choose the finest martial art for self-defense when there are so many forms to choose from? This article seeks to explain the various martial arts forms, their advantages, and provide information on Gurgaon training locations. Factors to consider: 1. Effectiveness in real-world scenarios 2. Ease of learning for beginners 3. Physical conditioning and mental discipline Dive into the world of martial arts and find the best fit for your self-defense needs! Find the best trainers and fitness coaches near Gurgaon- https://lnkd.in/dNRkE2nN #MartialArts #SelfDefense #PersonalSafety #Fitness #Discipline

Want to have More Fun Training Your Clients? Add martial arts and boxing into your routine. Alright, let's dive in and explore some effective strategies for incorporating boxing and martial arts into your clients' workout routines. As an expert in these combat disciplines, I've seen firsthand how they can provide an incredibly well-rounded and engaging training experience for fitness enthusiasts of all levels. The key, of course, is to strike the right balance between the technical aspects of the martial arts and the overall fitness and functional training components. Personal trainers who don't have extensive experience in boxing or martial arts may feel intimidated, but with the right approach, you can absolutely leverage these modalities to create dynamic, effective, and fun workout programs for your clients. One of the most important things to consider is progressive overload. Just like with any other strength or conditioning training, you'll want to gradually increase the complexity, intensity, and duration of the boxing and martial arts-inspired drills and exercises. Start with the basics - things like shadowboxing, mitt work, and fundamental strikes/techniques. As your clients become more comfortable and proficient, you can layer in more advanced movements, combinations, and even light sparring. Another key consideration is finding ways to make the workouts enjoyable and accessible, even for clients who may not have any prior experience in these disciplines. Incorporating elements of games, partner drills, and circuit training can help break up the monotony and keep things dynamic. And don't be afraid to get creative - maybe even throw in some fun, boxing-inspired music to get the energy flowing! Finally, be sure to emphasize the practical, functional, and self-defense applications of the techniques you teach. Many clients may be drawn to the idea of learning real-world skills, in addition to the fitness benefits. Weaving in simple, easy-to-learn self-defense moves can be a great way to provide your clients with a well-rounded training experience. The PowerPunchPlus transmitter can be an invaluable tool in this process. By tracking the power, speed, and accuracy of your clients' strikes, you can provide tangible feedback and quantifiable goals for them to work towards. This objective data can help keep them motivated and engaged, while also allowing you to more effectively monitor and progress their training. #myfittelife #PowerPunchPlus #MartialArts #PersonalDevelopment #FitnessJourney #Wellness #Accountability #Personaltrainers Interested in earning a black belt and CEC's? Check out our Personal Trainer program at https://lnkd.in/ekP7k8ng 🥋

“How do you fit so much in every day?” A very good question! Health and fitness is important to me so I manage to fit it in – if it’s important, we find the time. Here’s this week: Monday – 30 minutes Pilates (Julien likes to join in) followed by 30 minute Accelerator session* and then 15 minutes “on the bag”; evening 45 minute Taekwondo session – patterns and sparring followed by 30 minute stretching class. Tuesday – Pilates followed by Plyometrics session*; evening Taekwondo. Wednesday – morning Pilates; evening 30 minutes “Bag Blast” then Taekwondo. Thursday - Pilates; late afternoon 30 minutes Yoga* Today, I’ve done 30 minutes Pilates and 30 of Agility* This evening it’s 30 minutes “Bag Blast” then 45 minute Taekwondo session. Tomorrow, I’ll do a30 minute session* then Taekwondo followed by a 1 hour massage. Sunday will be less intense, probably Pilates and a 30 minute session. *the morning sessions are based on videos from the Taekwondo Training Academy with Master Kirkwood It’s a lot, but I feel great and my body has changed a lot! Much stronger core and a lot more flexible. I’ve not lifted weights this year! I’ve had a bath every evening too this week which aids my rest and helps my sleep. I’ve ripped out my home bar and got rid of my pool table to make way for a sauna and ice bath – coming soon! As I’ve said before, I’m living to 100 and still going to be training! Take action and drive success💪   ------------------- ⭐ I am Craig Alexander Rattray. 📈 Helping growing ambitious business owners. 🔢 Do you want to Know Your Numbers? 🔝 Connect with me or Follow me. Liked this post? Want to see more? 🔔 Ring it on my Profile Follow #CraigAlexanderRattray