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Today: How to be a good training partner
From your first class with a Krav Maga Club you will learn combative and defensive techniques, tactics and methodologies. But another important aspect of training is about being a good training partner.
Pair up:
After I have made an topic introduction speech and performed a demo, I will usually ask the group to pair up and practice the technique in a simple "One-step" no stress, cooperative drill. It is a nice feeling to have people rush to you to be your partner. Being a good training partner, performing the drill as instructed and teaching your partner also helps you to learn and cement in the knowledge.
Another important aspect of being a good training partner is having respect:
Show respect and be polite to your training partner. Unlike regular or traditional martial arts training we do not bow on introductions, but you can still introduce yourself. Attend class on time and be clean and presentable (the training environment and style we do means we often get hot and sweaty in class, but there is no reason to show up in that state). Be quiet and listen to the instructions when asked to.
Gauge the partner:
As a regular member you will know who is who, have a good idea of their abilities and understand the level and seniority within the class. New starters will begin on the understanding and assumption that they are completely without skill, and so experienced members will start training with them slowly and build up the speed and pressure. As a new beginner do not launch yourself into high intensity and pressure in an attempt to impress. Start slow and be sure of the movements, even if you have skills learn from previous training, you too must gauge your training partners and treat them respectfully.
Teach:
There is only one instructor in the room, but when you are partnered up with someone I encourage you to discuss and "teach" the technique as you practice it, particularly at slow speed as you first learn it. Mention the key points and go into the fine detail, and be sure to correct your partner if you see or hear something that you think is wrong.
Show gratitude:
Always thank your opponent for the training experience.
Know the equipment:
Learn what techniques to use each piece of kit (particularly with the striking pads), some are better suited for purpose than others and over time you will gain preferences for certain items.
Ask questions:
I encourage this! Ask if you do not understand. Ask if your training partner understands... Be honest with your answers, you are in a learning environment.
Give feedback:
Let your partner know what they are doing right and the areas that they can improve. Compliment form and make suggestions for focus.
And finally, support the club:
Like the posts that we place on social media, and make comments on the training to encourage your partners... Let them know publicly how well they did and help to boost their confidence and overall ability.
Pair up:
After I have made an topic introduction speech and performed a demo, I will usually ask the group to pair up and practice the technique in a simple "One-step" no stress, cooperative drill. It is a nice feeling to have people rush to you to be your partner. Being a good training partner, performing the drill as instructed and teaching your partner also helps you to learn and cement in the knowledge.
Another important aspect of being a good training partner is having respect:
Show respect and be polite to your training partner. Unlike regular or traditional martial arts training we do not bow on introductions, but you can still introduce yourself. Attend class on time and be clean and presentable (the training environment and style we do means we often get hot and sweaty in class, but there is no reason to show up in that state). Be quiet and listen to the instructions when asked to.
Gauge the partner:
As a regular member you will know who is who, have a good idea of their abilities and understand the level and seniority within the class. New starters will begin on the understanding and assumption that they are completely without skill, and so experienced members will start training with them slowly and build up the speed and pressure. As a new beginner do not launch yourself into high intensity and pressure in an attempt to impress. Start slow and be sure of the movements, even if you have skills learn from previous training, you too must gauge your training partners and treat them respectfully.
Teach:
There is only one instructor in the room, but when you are partnered up with someone I encourage you to discuss and "teach" the technique as you practice it, particularly at slow speed as you first learn it. Mention the key points and go into the fine detail, and be sure to correct your partner if you see or hear something that you think is wrong.
Show gratitude:
Always thank your opponent for the training experience.
Know the equipment:
Learn what techniques to use each piece of kit (particularly with the striking pads), some are better suited for purpose than others and over time you will gain preferences for certain items.
Ask questions:
I encourage this! Ask if you do not understand. Ask if your training partner understands... Be honest with your answers, you are in a learning environment.
Give feedback:
Let your partner know what they are doing right and the areas that they can improve. Compliment form and make suggestions for focus.
And finally, support the club:
Like the posts that we place on social media, and make comments on the training to encourage your partners... Let them know publicly how well they did and help to boost their confidence and overall ability.