5. Right,
left, right, left . . .
Why don't we use the
dominant side of the
body? It may cut the
training time in
half!
... Yes,
but you are just half
way right. The total
equation is completed
when bilateral motion of
the body is strongly
emphasized in martial
arts training. The
student is discouraged
from favoring his
dominant side, so that
equal proficiency in
skills on both the left
and right sides is
developed. Extra
attention is devoted to
the weaker side, with
more repetitions,
resistance, or time
spent working that
side.
... Although
it is best to learn a
technique on the more
proficient side, when
practicing one should
begin and end on the
other, weaker side. This
is important not only to
avoid displaying a
weakness to an opponent,
but also to maintain a
balance in the strength
of muscles across the
pelvis, back, and
shoulders that help
control the alignment of
the spine. We may appear
to be straight on the
frontal plane, and have
natural curves on the
lateral, but a top view
might indicate a twist
in the relaxed position
of the pelvis or
shoulders. This can
inhibit flexibility, or
lead to a shearing
effect of the vertebrae
under a load or unusual
stress.
... From
a self-defense point of
view we also have to
consider the situation
where an injury might
prevent us from using
our "better" side. Also,
it is scientifically
proved that practicing
on the less skillful
side will improve the
better one directly.
Think about it . . .
with both sides of the
brain of course. Take
care. |