fast twitch?

[Devin]

I've been reading that you are genetically predisposed to the proportions of fast twitch and slow twitch muscle fibers in your body. Is this true? and either way, can anyone suggest some exercises to increase general arm and leg speed?

I've seen ankle and wrist weights used, but I hear they are more harmful than anything else because they stress tendons and such. Any thoughts or ideas, anyone?

[Broadsword2004]

Yes, some people have higher proportions of fast or slow twitch than others. For example, Marion Jones, the female sprinter and basketball player who could always outrun every boy on her block, and jump super high. She is all fast-twitch. Fast-twitch lack endurance though, which is what slow-twitch possess.

The only way to increase leg speed really is to work out and get strong legs and then do plyometrics. Also, do lots of kicking. Lots of kicking will build up supple fast-twitch fibers as best as your body can and keep you agile, whereas strength training will build up decent strength.

DO NOT use ankle weights, that's a wonderful way to ruin your knees. And don't use wrist weights. Strength train and practice punching and speed will come. It has to be acquired. Swinging with arm weights can ruin your deltoids if you do it wrong.

[Playa Nas]

re:

I used ankle-weights until 3 months ago until I sprained my ankle 3 times in a row
Now it's all messed up

[Builderofmuscle]

used to be really into this. I hate getting all scientific. Some people are fast, some people are slow.. but it don't mean a slow person can't be fast, or a weak person can't be strong. It's all how u train. Everyone's got strengths a nd weakness. Workon your weaknesses, build on your strengths. Eat, sleep, and train. Do what you have to for your sport, but be smart about it. If anything, just practice martial arts. You're sensei knows best... most of the time.