Ask Cael: August 4th, 2008

Story Published Monday, September 15th, 2008

Matt Silva from Modesto, CA: What is the best way to prepare cardio wise for wrestling?

Cael: “Matt,

The best way to prepare cardio wise for wrestling is through live wrestling in practice. Wrestle in practice at the same level or higher then you do in actual competition. Get as tired as you possibly can. Prepare everyday for your toughest possible match. You can’t expect to compete at a higher level then you train. So train harder and longer then your toughest possible competiton. My career took off when I learned that I needed to train this way. There are a lot of other ways to add to your conditiong but nothing is nearly as important as just pushing yourself harder in live scrimmage.

Some keys to wrestling harder during scrimmage are:
1. Wrestle every second–from whistle to whistle.
2. Don’t be a clock watcher, don’t worry about the time.
3. No stalemates, no breaks between action–ever!
4. Attack in every position. If on the wall, keep wrestling, get as tired as possible, try to make your opponent quit by wrestling too hard for too long.
5. Pick the best/ toughest partner you can find. If that’s not enough, have your opponent rotate in on you.
6. Stay off your belly.

Also, extra running, sprints, push ups, pull ups, wall sits, in addition to regular wrestling practice will help a lot too. I love aerodyne bikes. They are about as much of a full body workout/ wrestling workout you can find outside of wrestling. Shadow wrestling at a high pace is excellent conditioning for wrestling. Staying in a stance and moving your feet is great for you. Good luck!

Thanks!

Cael”

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