Combat skills training is rigorous.  This is the reason why stamina is required.  Now, you have to know that the training itself will build up your stamina.  This is the reason why people who train for it religiously always end up being a better person overall because of the improved stamina.  However, it’s in your best interest to work on your stamina for the training itself.  This will present you with a lot of benefits that can help you train better.

So what are the benefits?  The most obvious is you’ll be able to practice the techniques and moves repeatedly without having to reach for an oxygen tank.  Training calls for quick and sharp movements that are repeated constantly until perfected.  If you’re going to stop in the middle of it, it’s like going back to zero.  You’ll have a harder time mastering the techniques that way.

Besides, you’ll need the stamina in the real world when faced with dangers.  A lot of criminals are so pumped up with drugs that they’re so hyper.  They won’t tire easily and that can spell trouble for you if you won’t be able to keep up.  Let’s say that you did a quick combination of strikes and it left you breathless.  You can’t run out of there because you’re out of breath.  The druggie in his drug-induced state was able to recover quicker and now, you’re in trouble.

You also have to build stamina in order to endure diseases.  Needless to say, you need to be healthy in order to train.  Your body should be functioning to its full capabilities and it shouldn’t be slowed down by diseases.

Here are the top 3 drills that can improve your stamina for combat skills training:

Interval Training

We all know that fights and confrontations should end quickly for your own sake.  If you encounter a dude with a knife in a dark alleyway, he’s not going to look to “go the distance”.  This is why the attacks are going to be short but intense.  Movements will be very quick and that can be very overwhelming if you lack stamina.

The concept of interval training is very simple.  You’re going to do high intensity drills alternated with short periods of rests.  Take a look at boxing fights.  They do a lot of work per 3 minute round and they get to rest for a minute in between rounds.  You can do interval training on your own.  If you have a heavy bag, you can punch continuously with high-intensity for 1-3 minutes depending on your current fitness level and rest for 20-60 seconds in between rounds.  You can start with 4 rounds.

You can also do the same without a heavy bag.  If you are a member of a gym, get on the treadmill or stationary bike.  You can also purchase punching mitts and have someone assist you.  But if you’re on your own, you can do these for interval training:

• Jumping rope
• Sprinting
• Jumping jacks
• Weights
• Biking

Aqua Striding

As the name implies, you will do striding exercise in the water.  A pool is the perfect place to do this.  All you really need to do is jog in the water as if you’re jogging on land.  But stride as far as possible for more benefits.  As a bonus, your strength is also being developed because of the added resistance of the water.  This drill is perfect if you’re overweight and if you’re concerned about joint injuries.  It’s a low impact drill so you can avoid injuries.

Running Drills

Ever wondered how can a long-distance marathon runner run for 42 kilometers?  It’s because they have the stamina for it and you can be sure that he does running drills to train for it.  There are a lot of running drills that you can follow but it’s highly suggested that you stay away from drills that encourage slow running.  As mentioned, you have to develop your stamina in such a way that your body will be ready for quick and rapid movements.  Higher intensities also tap in to your anaerobic system instead of aerobic and that’s more beneficial.  Just be sure to keep up the high intensity for longer distances and more repetitions.  You can also add ankle weights for better effects.

You can incorporate these 3 drills into your combat skills training and you’ll have the stamina that you need for better training.  You’ll also have increased speed and power which is also very helpful.  You’ll make the most out of your training and you’ll be able to learn the skills needed in a shorter time than the usual so you can be ready to defend yourself and your family as soon as needed.