Torqueblade - Functional Fitness

MMA and TBT

2008-09-04T21:17:00.000-07:00

Ok folks, here is one of my most favorite exercises from the Torqueblade regime. I call it the Harvester, an excellent exercise to develop power maintain your base and get a good all over workout (Nice on the abs and legs if you like that burney feeling).

The other exercises are the:

· Apex - excellent for ballistic lifts and deceleration
· Trident - for directional change and strengthening the lower extremities

I taught a fitness mini class at the World Class Martial Arts Center in Langley BC, excellent crew, all there for the greater good. Thanks for the opportunity lads; I am glad you enjoyed the session. Here is how the exercises can be used in a basic throw.

Torqeblade for the Dynamic Golfer

2008-07-15T21:28:00.000-07:00

Torqueblade for the Dynamic Golfer –

My father would be very amused to read this article, you see as a young man my father tried to introduce me to the noble art of spoiling a good walk whilst hitting a ball. As you have probably guessed I didn’t take well to golf. Well not the real game, at the time I preferred the game with the one club, windmills and the clowns face at the pitch and put.

As a fitness instructor I have always been interested with the similarities of motion within all past times, arts, sports call it what you will. Through studying functional fitness principles I realized that many fitness regimes lacked cohesion even cross training regimes. I developed a regime which would be applicable for developing gross body mechanics which would in turn enhance specific sport body mechanics and assist in cross training in a functional manner.

The golf swing for example, has many characteristics or points of reference are found in other physical past times such as Tennis, Hockey, Lacrosse, Grappling (Judo, Mixed Martial arts) and Boxing.

· Hip rotation
· torso rotation
· based stance
· shifting of weight from foot to foot

I hope you enjoy the video

2008-06-09T00:47:00.000-07:00

Tranquilblade- meditation in motion

2008-06-09T00:39:00.000-07:00

Tranquilblade is a wellness program based on the principles of meditation in motion. Commonly associated with Ti chi and Yoga.
The regime is inspired by the generic sword forms of the south east Asian archipelagos. Tranquilblade empowers the female and male warrior architypes.

For further information please visit www.torqueblade.com

Train from the Inside out

2008-06-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

“Train from the inside out, fitness first, aesthetics’ will follow, become the natural, adaptable, desirable creature we were designed to be”.

I have been a practitioner of fitness and self defence since the age of 16. I took my professional certification in 2000; coincidently this is when I also had the opportunity to start instructing Filipino Martial Arts. The universal tenet in my desired past times is that of functional fitness. Before I continue I would first like to clarify my understanding of fitness. I wish to use a quote:

"In the struggle for survival, the fittest win out at the expense of their rivals because they succeed in adapting themselves best to their environment."
Darwin

Fitness is defined then, as not being the strongest or the fastest, but those who can adapt to their environment effectively. Fitness = Adaptability and functionality. However, today’s use of fitness training usually equates to the pursuit of the male or female archetype dictated by pop culture, rather than the pursuit of preparing oneself for unpredictable tasks that lay ahead. To differentiate between the schisms in the fitness industry the name “functional fitness” was developed. Functional fitness primarily concentrates on full body motions rather than isolating muscles. The goal of functional fitness is a synergistic cohesion of muscle, tendon, and ligament as this encourages the body to best function as it has been designed. When the functional fitness has a specific goal the term “sports specific” is used.

The double edged sword of specific fitness training is eventual repetitive stress on joints and muscular imbalance. This is why in many specific training regimes time is set aside for cross training. When most people cross train they do so in a manner which is contraindicative to their desired goals. Sport specific fitness is geared towards developing skill sets which are desired for the sport being played. These motions must become instinctive and functional at a subconscious level so the practitioner can react quicker to the ambient stressors of the game. When a new skill is learnt there is a period of adjustment when the agonist and antagonist muscles are learning new patterns. A greater amount of calories are used until these motions are internalised. Once the muscles work synergistically the body will use less calories and start to store energy again (fat). This is the mandate of any organism, efficiency in motion or minimum effort for maximum gain (for survival).

Cross training usually takes the form of playing sports or weight training in the local gym. Now, to be quite honest there is nothing wrong with these pursuits. However, they are not the most economical way to cross train either. Playing sports that you are not accustomed to can be dangerous as the body is not prepared for the reactive stressors. I have known many clients who have decided to undertake a sport to get fit, and ended up with a sprained ankle, dislocated shoulder or twisted knee. The reason for this is you have to be fit prior to playing the game.

Fortunately there are many other ways to cross train. Functional fitness is an excellent way as the routines usually concentrate on full body mechanics. The reason why functional fitness is applicable to life in general is that full body motions are trained rather than isolated muscle groups, the body works synergistically. Consider a tent, the tent is a strong structure when all the parts are arranged correctly, too much tension on one guide rope and not enough on the other it becomes unstable, if the tension on the sheet is too much it might tear, if the frame is weak at the joints then a strong wind will pull the tent down. This is the same for the body although over simplified. The muscles, tendons and ligaments work as they are supposed to do, strength not only comes from the muscles individually but also from tendon, ligament and muscle cooperation.
One of my favourite ways to train is to use a medicine ball and the Swiss ball.
However, this is not totally conducive to my martial training.

This is when an old memory surfaced due to my use of Filipino training drills. I remembered as a kid watching a show on T.V. about an old gym built in the 1920’s and its imminent demolition to make way for new buildings. The program depicted training from my grandparent’s era. The training regime being televised was Indian club swinging.
“For serious and recreational athletes alike, the pain and instability that result from shoulder injuries can jeopardize careers and alter lifestyles. As with many injuries, this number could be greatly reduced with the proper care and training. When the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder is made strong, aligned and mobile, other joints like the wrist and elbow also benefit. Club swinging is believed to have originated in India by soldiers as a method of improving strength, agility, balance and physical ability. The British brought the Indian Clubs to Europe where the Germans and Czechs adopted club swinging into their physical training systems”.
Information kindly supplied by DR. ED Thomas of Motionrx.com

My brief stint in the Royal Navy also resurfaced, and the historical lessons taught there to develop esprit de corps which made reference to Indian club swinging.

The fitness training of the British military circa 1800

“The British military, moving with the times decided to upgrade the Royal Navy. The Admiralty at that time replaced sails in favour of steam, to power the new warships. Consequently, labour was not as demanding and the Admiralty perceived a lack of fitness. So the R.N. adopted the training regime of club swinging. To this day the fitness instructors in the R.N. are still referred to as Clubs”.
Information kindly supplied by Warrant Officer Richardson P.T.I. (R.N.)

Many individuals have remarked on the advantageous effects of training with a weapon as your equilibrium is directly challenged. To make sure that my new forming idea had a sound base I sought additional information on similar subjects. This took me to the Goju Ryo system of karate and their physical conditioning training techniques and Yoga. The underlying similarity was obvious: multi joint motions challenged by torsion. I theorised that if I amalgamated proven training methodologies of Indian club swinging, medicine ball training, and the sound principles of functional fitness training I would be able to train in a manner which would be conducive to specific training as well as cross training. All I needed now was a tool which would aid athletes, martial artists and fitness practitioners alike.

At this time I was becoming frustrated with the martial arts retail stores and knife stores as I couldn’t find an adequate training blade which would allow me to train in the manner I desired. I use a blade to appreciate the lines of force and correct wrist orientation. After all, a blade is a sophisticated club with the added bonus that it allows you to appreciate the lead edge and correct form. All impact tools are designed to make the job easier. This is why a hammer has its head facing the line of force, or swords of combat are weighted for a specific task. In times past the warriors of the day realized the worth of training with heavier weapons than the ones they would be taking into the field of battle. So I designed a blade which would do this. Additionally, the blade I designed is an excellent tool for developing an appreciation for lines of force. I designed the Torqueblade and Companionblade (for progression).

This tool is an excellent item to use with a training regime, as the Torqueblade not only challenges the grip but gives you visual bio feedback (the pseudo cutting edge of the Torqueblade leads), and lines of force and correct body mechanics can be expedited. The body’s equilibrium is challenged as holding a Torqueblade in each hand is harder than holding one tool with two hands. The Torqueblade adopted the weighted tip of the Nepalese ghukri, an elongated belly to resemble the shape of the East Indian club, and pistol grip of a Philippine blade (kriss).

How is the Torqueblade and training regime applicable to you?

“Everything that we do requires our muscles to work in synergy with each other. Every required task moves through all three planes of motion (multi-planer). Only the intent changes the outcome”.

Torqueblade training is a synthesis of fitness methodologies. This amalgamation is firmly rooted in principles of functional fitness. The Torqueblade has been specifically designed to be an awkward implement. An unbalanced tool challenges grip, coordination, and body mechanics. Once these challenges have been overcome, the more quickly one can adapt. The exercises have been designed to challenge the bodies’ equilibrium under duress of torsion. Torsion is the rotational force generated about a fixed point. Torsion is required to develop linear force. Force is Power and Power is strength to develop and maintain motion or the cessation of motion. Therefore, Strength in motion!

“The exercises cross as many planes of motion as possible to be as varied as the motions we may use in everyday life, including recreation and at work.”

There are nine full body exercises incorporating leg motions coupled with torso motions. These exercises coupled with the Indian club swinging motions make an excellent all over body conditioning regime. Because of the configuration of the exercises, and continuous rhythm, a sub maximal anaerobic threshold is maintained throughout the session. In other words, you will be breathless but able to hold a conversation when training. This is the most economical way to effectively increase levels of strength to weight ratio and endurance. In other words; lean body mass and sleek muscles.

If you are interested in information on how to gain certification for Torqueblade training (for continuing BCRPA credits and Can fit Pro cec's), or to purchase the Torqueblades (for Martial Arts, Yoga, etc.) please contact me at: http://www.torqueblade.com/ or

Be powerful. Be strong. Stay sharp!

2008-06-01T23:23:00.000-07:00

Female empowerment - discovering the warrior queen within

2008-06-01T20:07:00.000-07:00

Embrace your Warrior Queen Archetype – develop lean long sleek muscles

“Torqueblade training, for ladies? Women will never go for it”.

This is what I have been told over and over again by qualified professionals in the fitness industry. It amazes me that the movers and shakers have such a low opinion of the female resolve. But of course they surely don’t mean this. What I assume they mean to say is that the Torqueblade regime will not be hugely popular with the normal regular female fitness fanatics, after all only men like to play with blades – Ha! What about pirates of the Caribbean? Ok I know it’s a film.

But, here is an interesting fact, did you know that there have been many ancient warrior queens’ throughout history, here are a select few from as many different cultures as I could find. (You can find anything on the web if you try hard enough go to http://ancienthistory.about.com/).
The Rig-Veda, a sacred poem of India, tells the story of a warrior, Queen Vishpla, who lost her leg in battle, was fitted with a false iron leg to return to battle.

Circa 1550 BC and Egyptian Queen Aahhotep I led armies against Thebes and helped to unite Egypt under one rule.
Hittite fortresses dating to 1300 BC have paintings depicting woman warriors carrying axes and swords.
The Biblical Judge, Deborah, was a war leader during the occupation of Canaan 1250 -1050 BC.
Arabian warrior queens Zabibi and her successor Samsi reigned from approximately 740 to 720 BC. Both commanded armies containing large numbers of women.
Bouddicca queen of the Iceni. According to Tacitus, Suetonius, told his troops that "in their ranks there are more women than fighting men."
In 39 AD Trung Trac and Trung Nhi led a Vietnamese uprising against the Chinese and reigned as queens until 43 AD. Their mother Tran Thi Doan trained them in martial arts and led troops into battle.
In 366AD Empress Jingo Kogo led a Japanese invasion of Korea. She was pregnant when she invaded Korea and had to have adjustable amour made.
Mavia, was Queen of the Bedouin Saracens from 370 to 380 AD. She led her troops in defeating a Roman army then made a favorable peace and married her daughter to the Roman commander in chief of the eastern Emperor Valens.
An English Saxon Princess led an invasion of Jutland in the 6th Century. In the 8th Century Queen Aethelburgh destroyed Taunton. In the 9th Century Queen Thyra of Denmark led her army against the Germans.

Torqueblade is not a martial art nor is it the holy grail of fitness regimes. It is however a synergistic fitness regime which will enhance your physique and the way you move. Not everyone will appreciate the regime but this is fine by me because not everybody will understand the regime and what the benefits are. I prefer the enlightened clientele. It’s very rarely these days that anything worthwhile is discovered or that people are prepared to undergo the journey of discovery for their own benefit. So the question is, “What type of person are you?” and the second question is “How can Torqueblade benefit you?”

Well the first question can only be answered by you, and I will only be privy to this answer if I see you at one of my fitness sessions.

The second question I asked I can readily answer, but first let’s break down several myths.
The first is that training regimes must differ for females and males, this is an untruth. The human body is basically the same for both sexes, apart from the obvious. Unless we grow a third arm, the way we move and manipulate our environment will never change. Fitness training, which includes, flexibility, strength and endurance modules, enhances the body regardless of gender. A person’s genetics will determine the shape but the environment determines how that shape will manifest.

For example, environmental stressors such as toxic or noxious gasses, poor food choices or availability of nutritious foods, weather, low lands dweller or highlands dweller, physical employment as opposed to purely mental employment all have an effect on how our genetics assist with our development. In otherwords the same plant will thrive in the sun but not so good in the shade. So – physical activity and a healthy lifestyle will have a positive effect on your physiology regardless of sex. Quite simply put, women will become more feminine and men more masculine.

Another myth I come across on a regular basis is that if a lady uses weights she will end up looking like a man, this also untrue and an unfounded fear. Over the years instructing in fitness I have had this discussion on a regular basis. Most ladies want to complete hours and hours of cardio because they believe this is the way to rid themselves flabby arms, butt and tummy. The ladies lose overall weight but don’t achieve the desired sleek body tone. If a person (male of female) purely uses a cardiovascular training format they will not develop the necessary muscle to have the desired natural athletic physique.

This is because an over abundance in cardiovascular training will eventually lead to cannibalization of one’s own muscular system. The body then carries on storing fat as an energy supply and the bingo arms soon return. What makes it worse is that you are now skinny and have no muscle tone. The message here is that resistance training (weights) is a part of the required format to challenge the body as it would do in nature.

So, how can Torqueblade benefit you?
Well, when a person undertakes a fitness regime such as Torqueblade the body is challenged in many different modalities.

Balance
Cardiovascular (Anaerobic Threshold Training)
Strength
Flexibility
Quickness

Balance – This is very important, more and more every day we are rushing around from place to place using other modes of transport than our legs. In other cultures where the chair is not in abundance, squatting or sitting on the floor is commonplace. This means that those cultures rarely have issues with knees as they use the legs more often. For an experiment, see how many times and for how long that you sit down, getting to and from work? Balance training also uses more calories as every muscle in the body is used trying to master the new movements like guide ropes on a tent each trying to do its job and maintain equilibrium.

Cardiovascular – Ok, ok I here you say, “You just said that cardiovascular training was bad for us” I can address that quite easily, “moderation in all things”. Cardio training is an excellent form of fitness training to improve overall fitness but when coupled with strength training your cause is expedited. The Cardiovascular system is made up of two parts the Aerobic and Anaerobic. To enhance the aerobic we need to push the anaerobic further this also means that our physiology then adjusts to working normally at a higher rate and we train our bodies to burn more fat instead of carbohydrates. Our physiology becomes efficient at higher stressors and our ability to adapt is increased.

Strength – As ladies get older estrogen starts to be produced less and less and bones become weaker. The sooner a lady starts to strength train the sooner the bones become stronger. The more a bone is put under tension and torsion the stronger it becomes. Healthy bones means a healthy body, bones are also part of the immune system.

Flexibility – This goes without saying, however I often neglect this to the detriment of my knees. Flexibility must be part of our daily routines as this helps with rest and recuperation of the muscle and flushing the system of unwanted chemicals.

Quickness – Speed is nothing without directional change. This means being able to put the brakes on. Ballistic motion also assists with strengthening the body and protecting it from violent unexpected impact. Such as falling over, knee jerk reactions, or little Tommy jumping up on his uncle, who is carrying tea and manages to catch said Tommy (the little darling) with only minor scolding to the trouser area.

By challenging a body in the above modalities a person’s body mechanics is enhanced and the desired long lean athletic physique is achieved.
What this means to the lay person is:

A tight Butt and legs (due to the continuous lunges and squats)
Tight Tummy (due to the continuous rotation, bending, straitening of the trunk)
Sculpted shoulders and arms (due to the continuous movement of the arms)
Fat melts away (anaerobic threshold training)
The ability to function and adapt to everyday rigors and general daily activities
Empowerment, after all, you have just taken part in an exercise regime which can follow its heritage back thousands of years

Enlightened communities have often embraced coed training, from the Greeks, Japanese Romans and Celts. Now it’s up to you to embrace the concept of Torqueblade training, pick up the blades, empower your inner warrior queen and expedite your lifestyle!