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Mitchel Harding

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February 2, 2025

The Importance of Strength in Striking: A Non-Negotiable Element of Training

Why Strength Matters in Striking

1. More Power in Every Strike

Strength = power. A stronger fighter generates more force, meaning harder punches, kicks, and knees. It’s simple physics—stronger muscles hit harder.

2. Better Performance, Longer Rounds

Strength training improves balance, speed, and endurance. You’ll move sharper, clinch stronger, and stay fresh longer without burning out.

3. Injury Prevention & Durability

Stronger muscles, tendons, and joints mean fewer injuries. You’ll absorb damage better, avoid overuse injuries, and spend more time training instead of rehabbing.

4. Stronger People Are Harder to Kill

It’s true in fighting and in life. The stronger you are, the harder you are to hurt, control, or break. Strength builds confidence and gives you an edge over weaker opponents.

Simple Strength Program for Fighters

Train strength 2-3x per week. Keep it simple, focus on compound movements, and lift heavy.

Strength Workout

**Rest 1:15-1:30 between sets

**keep weight at about a 75% difficulty (concentric phase should be explosive - excentric should be controlled)

  • Squats – 4 sets of 5-10 reps
  • Deadlifts - 4 sets of 5-10 reps
  • Bench Press or Overhead Press – 4 sets of 5-10 reps
  • Bent Over Rows or Pull-Ups (Weighted if possible) – 4 sets of 8-10
  • Core (Hanging Leg Raises/Ab Rollouts) – 3-5 sets of 20-30 reps

Final Word: Strength is a Cheat CodeIf you’re not strength training, you’re holding yourself back. Stronger fighters hit harder, move better, and get injured less. It’s that simple. Start lifting, and watch everything improve.Now go get stronger. 💪🥊

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