Cross Country...

In my post just a few moments ago, I failed to mention that the effects of a previous class on Monday is also having lingering effects on my body. Prior to Log training, some of us that participated in Log Training also participated in Cross Country exercises.

Cross Country in Nabard Combat entails the use of controlled kicks with weights on each leg (at the ankle) and in this case on our waists as well. Each set of kicks are marched from one end of the academy to the other at which point we turn around and repeat the exercise back to the starting end. These combination kicks are controlled and continuous all the while focusing on the muscles of the entire body to provide the balance necessary to perform the kicks with the added weight at the ankles.

Well, with Monday's Cross Country exercise Master was a little creative. We were to hold each kick with precision and purpose (not unusual in itself), then step into a deep lung/squat before continuing the kick combination. Either of these things is in itself not unsual. However Master used this approach for the entirety of the class resulting in extra "special" benefits. The additional focus on the deep lunges and squats while continuing the kick combination contributes to the Nabard student's conditioning and strength. It also helps having 10 lbs on each leg and a waist weight belt...

Some New and Some New "Again" Exercises

With as many available exercises as we have with Nabard Log Training, it is no wonder that we sometimes develop new exercises as well as rediscover those older exercises which are really fantastic. Well, this past Monday night was one of those classes where we explored new exercises. Let it be known that they were fun and more than efficient at creating a powerful workout. I am feeling the workout still the day after and believe that I will continue to realize the effects of the class again tomorrow.

Couple the new exercises with the constant revisiting of older tried and true exercises and there is never a reason for boredom. Current count has our exercises in the hundreds when variations are considered, so each class brings its own feel and unique experience.

I can only imagine what is yet to come!

Unique Class Today

Well, it has been a long time since my last post. I have been busy once again and working a lot of hours. Time was a commodity that I did not have... I will try to post more as we move forward again.

Now to my topic.

Class today was interesting to say the least. We were well into the class when a group of military men walked in. We quickly set them up and explained a few basic moves and the proper way to hold the logs. Seeing how fit they were, I was a little nervous about my ability to give them a full workout like we do our other practitioners.

They progressed well through the class, but it didn't take long for them to see the benefits of Log Training. There were constant comments on how well the exercises were working and how much they could feel what we were doing. There were also grunts and hard breathing, as well as the ubiquitous dropping of feet when doing our horizontal and vertical extensions.

In the end, they were commenting on the effects and their liking of Log Training, and I was pleased that we were able to give them a complete and worthwhile exercise. I think the quality and intensity of the class surprised them and speaks to the quality of what we have begun with Log Training.

Comparisons Between Nabard Log Training and Kettle Bell Exercises - Part I

There is are a lot of sources out there for Kettle Bells and Kettle Bell training routines. While there may be some validity to the Kettle Bell and its approach, I believe that Nabard Log Training and the Nabard Logs have much more to offer when compared to the Kettle Bell as well as other exercise devices and routines. Over the next few posts I will illustrate some of the key differences with the devices themselves and the exercises in which they are used. Follow along and let me know you thoughts.

It comes to an end...slowly

Well our trip into DC is coming to an end, however slowly. Our subway ride was delayed and the warrior had to talk sense into the station manager. After a little one-on-one, the manager agreed that it was in everyone's best interest to get the subway running again right away. We are now approaching the final stop. The warrior tips hit head to DC upon his departure.

Sharing Words of Wisdom with Abe

The Log Warrior was really having a good time with Abraham Lincoln. They were sharing words of wisdom with one another for quite awhile until Abe realized that he was no longer paying attention to the public. After a brief head nod, Abe went back to the public audience.

King of the World!

It got kind of hectic there for a while. The Log Warrior was jumping up and down screaming "I'm King of the world!" over and over. It all ended quickly when the White House guards tackled the warrior and zip-tied his hands. He promised to act more calmly and the guards let him go. He is a celebrity after all.

Not quite a Rocky Balboa moment, but...

Ever wonder where the metal logs originated?

This tree started it all...

Hanging out with some old friends

Who knew that the warrior would find some old friends at the Smithsonian?

On the Mall

The Log Warrior made it. He is now taking in the sites of DC.

Deep under Washington DC

Well the warrior is a little bit excited. He is close to the sites of Washington DC.

Getting on the Metro to DC

The Log Warrior is a little upset with me. He wanted to take his logs into downtown and workout on the steps of the White House. I wouldn't let him and I tried to explain the security issues. He was still sad and as you can see he was pouting in this photo.

A Log Angel

It was hard to concentrate on the last blog post with all of the noise coming from behind me. The Log Warrior was making a "log angel" in the snow and was creating quite a stir with all of his excitement. I warned him about the yellow snow. I hope he remembers.

Look at the snowman!

Well, we are staying with my uncle while in Virginia and the whole house woke up this morning to loud giggles and laughter from outside. As you will see in the picture, the Log Warrior made his first snowman and was very excited. He just can't stop talking about the snow.

That Sure is a Nas-Car!

The Log Warrior was really impressed with Dale Earnhardt's race car. He said "That sure is a nas-car".

Not Quite Done Afterall...

Well we walked out of the restaurant and the warrior went missing. I found him in this snow pile on the side of the parking lot. He was having a blast in the snow. He kept saying "Look at me! Look at me! I'm climbing a snow mountain!"

Put a Fork in the Log Warrior

After a long day of driving and a visit with one of my family members in North Carolina, the warrior is done. He devoured his evening "breakfast", put his fork on the plate and said "NABARD".

Log Warrior Taking a Trip Up North

The Log Warrior is having his first lunch break on the trip up north. There will be stops and photos with monster trucks, race cars, and many more. Depending on the weather, there may even be photos from Washington DC. Maybe the warrior will toughen-up some of those folks on capital hill.

Cool New Logs Available

Check out the newest set of Logs available for Log Training. I have a set and they are much improved over the previous versions. They keep getting better and better!!

Why is Log Training So Important for Nabard Combat Training?

Log training is important for any number of health reasons. However, Log Training is also incredibly important for growth wihin the Nabard Combat System. Within the Nabard Combat System our movements and position changes require a high level of strength and dexterity. The further along you go in your training, the greater the need for increased strength and flexibility.

Log Training supports this need through targeted exercise routines and the specific muscular focus that each exercise offers. Although Log Training is beneficial to all, martial artists (especially those within the Nabard Combat System) really benefit from the exercise of the assistor muscles, grip strength targeting, and "off balance" position shifting. Each of these focuses provides the participant with increased ability to hold a sword or other weapon, quickly interchange blocks and strikes, and move the body in a more spherical range of motion. All of this is coupled with the increase in body core strength which is needed for overall good health as well as increased physical ability within a martial art.

Log Training is all inclusive and benefits us all more than immediately visible when observing a class.

Where Does the Word Nabard Originate?

A comment added anonymously to a post earlier asked where the term Nabard originates. As per the comment, the acronym for the National Bank for Agriculture Development in Inda is NABARD. However, Nabard is also the traditional Persian martial practice. For more information, follow this link (http://www.nabardcombatsystem.com) which will take you to the official Nabard Combat System website where the brief quote below can be found within the history section.

"The Persians have a notable fighting practice known as Nabard, an exotic art of combat. The word 'nabard' (loosely translated as 'combat') was the term used to refer to traditional Persian martial practice."

Time Between Seeing Movement and Reacting to That Movement

The other day a few of us were discussing our combat classes and how speed fits into everything. I think it is pretty obvious to everyone that the faster you are, the more likely you will be able to strike an opponent. I think it is also a given that your speed also allows for quick movement in blocking and avoidance of strikes toward you.

Have you ever considered, however, the time it takes for you to react to any action once you have recognized that action? Many of us have not ever truly thought this through. We all know that reaction time is important, but what does a faster reaction time do for you?

If your reaction time is fast enough, you can see a punch or a kick as it begins and move your body out of the way without having to provide a blocking force or receiving the blow directly. What if you were even fast enough with your reaction to actually succeed in an attack of your own prior to the completion of your opponent's initial action? There is very little that an opponent can do if you are able to strike them before they can reach you. Each one of your strikes can catch your opponent in a position in which the ability to defend is compromised. It is within these moments that you can take control of your situation.

The ability to react is a core component of our Nabard Combat System. This is why we are always including reaction training with our workouts. You may not have been directly aware of this, but we also work on our reactions in a total body manner. Without the ability to react with your entire body, you have a diminished ability to move and react before your opponent has completed their movement.

This concept of reaction is also core to our offensive attacks and movements within the Nabard Combat System. While your fellow students work on their ability to react to your movements, you must react to their reactions. That is why we are constantly working on the ability to change our attacks and movements as we shift between strikes and blocks.

This is all kind of circular huh? The ability to interchange, adapt, and react quicker than your opponent is critical for a Nabard Combat System student.

Pushing on a Rope Part 2

In response to a request for an example of "pushing someone's rope" I offer the following examples. While I am applying the "pushing a rope" saying to Nabard students, the same can be said for all parts of our lives.

Example 1: A Nabard student of at least few months has been exposed to numerous training techniques and intensities. This student progresses a little beyond their point of beginning (level of ability/fitness) and have plateaued. Although this student continues to attend classes, he or she begins to coast along without pushing further in their development. No matter how much effort fellow classmates put into helping the student along through encouragement and leadership, the student does not come to class mentally or physically prepared to engage at the needed level. These students also tend to be difficult to work with as they are indirectly being a detriment to those students that are working hard. Often these students do not push themselves in relation to speed, flexibility, or strength. Through their inaction or lack of effort they have resisted progression, and because everyone is a rope, they can't be pushed into it.

Example 2: A Nabard student of any length of time recognizes that there will always be something to learn and areas where improvement can be made. This student approaches classes with an understanding that they will work very hard, and will likely be exhausted when the class is over. For this student, training with others is focused on mutual growth and benefit, as well as the understanding that their actions will have an effect on others. These students typically do not need prodding or encouragement to work hard. While there is always need for direction and instruction, drive and enthusiasm is not needed from an outside source. These students allow themselves to be led, while acknowledging and working within their own abilities. These students are also the most faithful to attend class and have the better attitudes while working hard. The idea that they are not making headway in their own progression is troublesome and they therefore seek advice and leadership from others. These students tend to pull and tug the information and growth out of others. They are using their "rope" for what it is intended.

Pushing a Rope

There is this saying that I heard once that stuck with me. The saying is, "You can't push a rope!" I often think of this saying when I consider Nabard students and their progression. No matter how badly we may want for each student to succeed and grow, it ultimately comes down to their inner desire. Within this context, the student is the rope, and we can not push them. It just does not work. The only thing we can do is to keep offering support and guidance. Students should question themselves periodically and determine if they are working successfully and progressing, or if others have been trying to "push their rope".

One's Only Point of Reference is Oneself

Nabard is unlike many other martial arts in any number of ways. To me, however, one of the most important and obvious differences is our point of reference. Through points of reference one is afforded the ability to measure progress. Many martial arts schools offer programs that provide multiple mini-milestones that occur often through one's progress within that program. Belts, stripes, and sparring points are just such measurements which are common to all students within these types of settings. By earning a new belt, stripe, or scoring a point, one can easily measure oneself against another person. The point of reference in these cases are the belts, stripes, and points themselves.

Contrary to this approach is the Nabard way. As a student of Nabard, one quickly realizes that there are no quick points of reference in which progress is measured against others. Progress is measured by one's growth as compared to oneself from the point of beginning. While there is always someone to look up to and see progression within Nabard, each student is a wholly unique and infinitely complex human being. Each student begins the Nabard journey at a different place as compared to others. There are some students who are naturally more flexible when they begin, or quicker with their hands and feet. Some students are also just able to put it all together more quickly than others. For these reasons, measuring oneself to others can give a false sense of accomplishment, as well as a false sense of failure. There is nothing more rewarding than awareness of true progression when comparing oneself at a current level of ability and fitness to previous abilities and levels of fitness.

Remember to review your progress within yourself. You will be surprised by how much you can and have accomplished.