How to Use Qigong to Train for Martial Arts
Qigong (pronounced "chee-gong") is a combination of physical movement, mental focus and breathing techniques. Invented in China long, long ago, Qigong has evolved into a wide-ranging set of practices. Common to all types of Qigong is the idea that focused breathing and exercise directs the energy called "Qi" in the human body to vital areas where it can heal, restore and combat fatigue. Qigong practitioners believe that good Qi also postpones aging and increases longevity. Not only is Qigong used to treat chronic conditions like allergies, asthma or recurrent headaches; it's often used in conjunction with the
martial arts
. Follow these steps to find out how to use it to help your martial arts training.
Things You'll Need:
Instructional materials such as books, audio lessons or videos that explain how to use Qigong exercises to train for martial arts
1
Buy a book, audio cassette or video that will help you learn more about how to use Qigong to train for martial arts. You can also look for a Qigong school that incorporates martial arts. You can begin to learn about Qigong online at the Qigong Center Web site (see Resources below).
2
First practice Qigong basics like breathing and controlled movement. This will help prepare you for the more intense physical demands of martial arts training to follow.
3
Don't forget to stretch. Even though Qigong is low impact and is used to increase flexibility and muscle strength, you should always stretch well before beginning any exercise.
4
Focus on your breathing. Draw in and collect energy during the deep abdominal breathing stressed in Qigong. Strike martial arts blows on your exhale for more precision and power.
5
Open your mind and approach satori, the state where higher-level conscious thought is set aside as the body becomes in tune with its environment. This is where the stress-reducing aspect of Qigong comes into play.
6
Meditate. Before and after your marital arts training, set aside time to clear your mind of cares and concerns. Focus on your breath and feel tension fade away.
7
Remember your Qi, your body's vital energy. It's central to both Qigong and martial arts. Qigong practitioners believe that Qigong directs the body's Qi to important areas to heal and strengthen while the martial arts focus Qi for greater power.
Tips & Warnings
Practice Qigong separately first. Once you've learned how to perform basic Qigong, combine it with your martial arts practice to realize maximum benefit.
Any sudden pain, shortness of breath or dizziness experienced during martial arts practice or Qigong requires immediate attention. See a licensed medical professional or go to the emergency room.
Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2031520_use-qigong-train.html
Qigong (pronounced "chee-gong") is a combination of physical movement, mental focus and breathing techniques. Invented in China long, long ago, Qigong has evolved into a wide-ranging set of practices. Common to all types of Qigong is the idea that focused breathing and exercise directs the energy called "Qi" in the human body to vital areas where it can heal, restore and combat fatigue. Qigong practitioners believe that good Qi also postpones aging and increases longevity. Not only is Qigong used to treat chronic conditions like allergies, asthma or recurrent headaches; it's often used in conjunction with the
martial arts
. Follow these steps to find out how to use it to help your martial arts training.
Things You'll Need:
Instructional materials such as books, audio lessons or videos that explain how to use Qigong exercises to train for martial arts
1
Buy a book, audio cassette or video that will help you learn more about how to use Qigong to train for martial arts. You can also look for a Qigong school that incorporates martial arts. You can begin to learn about Qigong online at the Qigong Center Web site (see Resources below).
2
First practice Qigong basics like breathing and controlled movement. This will help prepare you for the more intense physical demands of martial arts training to follow.
3
Don't forget to stretch. Even though Qigong is low impact and is used to increase flexibility and muscle strength, you should always stretch well before beginning any exercise.
4
Focus on your breathing. Draw in and collect energy during the deep abdominal breathing stressed in Qigong. Strike martial arts blows on your exhale for more precision and power.
5
Open your mind and approach satori, the state where higher-level conscious thought is set aside as the body becomes in tune with its environment. This is where the stress-reducing aspect of Qigong comes into play.
6
Meditate. Before and after your marital arts training, set aside time to clear your mind of cares and concerns. Focus on your breath and feel tension fade away.
7
Remember your Qi, your body's vital energy. It's central to both Qigong and martial arts. Qigong practitioners believe that Qigong directs the body's Qi to important areas to heal and strengthen while the martial arts focus Qi for greater power.
Tips & Warnings
Practice Qigong separately first. Once you've learned how to perform basic Qigong, combine it with your martial arts practice to realize maximum benefit.
Any sudden pain, shortness of breath or dizziness experienced during martial arts practice or Qigong requires immediate attention. See a licensed medical professional or go to the emergency room.
Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2031520_use-qigong-train.html
