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How to Strengthen Hamstrings for Martial Arts

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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The hamstrings, those muscles on the back of your thighs, are vulnerable to injury because they are usually weaker than the front of the thigh. Strengthen your hamstrings to improve your balance, power and stability for martial arts training.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Squat or lunge. Multi-joint exercises that involve both the knee and the hip, like squats or lunges, do an excellent job of strengthening the hamstring muscles.

  2. Step 2

    Balance. Performing the exercises from Step 1 barefoot increases foot strength and balance. Balancing with a bent knee or hip helps your hamstrings adapt to delicate, nuanced motions and coordinates these muscles with your other muscles.

  3. Step 3

    Hit the gym. The hamstring curl machine is a perfect way of isolating your hamstrings to strengthen them specifically.

  4. Step 4

    Run. Running is another useful way to strengthen hamstrings. During this exercise, the hamstrings must work in concert with other muscles.

  5. Step 5

    Jump. All the exercises from Step 1 can be done with a small jump added. Don't bend your knees more than ninety degrees and keep your knees pointed over your toes.

Tips & Warnings
  • Avoid or limit jumping and other high-impact activities if your calves are stiff or injured.
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