Martial Arts Core Exercises (Beginner & Advanced)

This page looks at a wide range of martial arts core exercises. Core workouts are used to help a martial artist’s rotational or twisting power which contributes to stronger kicks, punches and grappling techniques. Martial artists use these core exercises in order to strengthen their abs, obliques and lower back. Moreover, stronger core muscles allow martial artists to better absorb hits (i.e. withstand punches to the stomach). If you are looking for information on more traditional martial arts strength exercises (i.e. Hojo Undo), please visit Black Belt Wiki’s main Martial Arts Strength Training section.

All stretches and exercises should be supervised by a trained instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. If you have had an injury or are in pain, please see a doctor before starting any stretching or exercise program. For additional exercises, please visit the main Martial Arts Physical Fitness section.

List of Martial Arts Core ExercisesClick on the exercise for written and/or video instructions.

 

 

Core Exercises Questions

What is considered your core muscles?

Core muscles consist of abdominal, oblique and lower back muscles. These muscles control the movement of a person’s torso (middle section of the body). Strong core muscles help athletes to generate greater power due to improved rotational strength. This results in stronger throws, improved kicking power, faster bat or golf club speed, more powerful punches, etc. Some classic core muscle exercises include planks, crunches, bridges and sit-ups.

Martial Arts Core Exercises

Core Exercises – Plank Exercise with Medicine Balls

Martial Arts Core Exercises

Core Exercises Image provided by Wikimedia Commons