Weight Training!!!

[Coolio]

What weight training program would you recommend to a martial artist?
What exercises and/or what muscles should a martial artist train using weights?

[bvermillion]

I prefer push ups and situp and the likes but if you must lift do core strength building exercises. For example squat, bench and clean. I am totally satisfied with my program of hindu pushups and sqauts, neck bridge and then some little extras i add every now and then.

[Thai Bri]

I'm also researching core exercises more. Exercises that use your muscles simultaneously (including the torso), instead of isolating them. I even have a Swiss Ball. There are exercises with that which kill!

[Coolio]

what are other examples of core exercises?
what would be a good full body workout routine for a martial artist consisting of core exercises?

[SOUTHPAW]

Thai Bri...I'm impressed. I have been using a Swiss ball for a long time with good results. Core training consists of strengthening the abs, low-back, hips and trunk muscles. The idea being that those muscles support the whole body in just about every atheletic endeavor...and it's a pretty right on idea. Any exercise that you could do on a weight bench (bench press, shoulder press, flys, etc.)can and should be done with the ball instead. Also you can do crunches, back extensions, and squats using the ball (one leg on floor, one on ball...good for balance and strength) if you do core training and bodyweight exercises (push-ups, pull-ups, dips, hindu squats, etc) you will get stronger. If you want to develop explosiveness and speed in a specific manner, get a medicine ball and add plyometrics to your routine. Variety in your workouts is improtant to keep your muscles "guessing" what will come next. Start off slowly and build yourself up gradually.