Power

My clients hear this word a lot........in fact, they might actually like to hear it less. However, that is quite unlikely as I highly esteem power and try to cultivate it as much as possible.

Power is not the sole domain of densely built weightlifters grunting loudly in a one-piece singlet. Far from it, power is a highly valuable asset in most sports including running, volleyball, martial arts, soccer, etc. Power allows for higher level performances and distinguishes elite performers from the rest of the pack. Power is also extremely valuable to the recreational trainer or the person who is "trying to get into shape".

Defined power is Force X Distance / Time. For the readers here who may have forgotten first year physics, force times distance is defined as work. Power then is work divided by time. Power essentially allows the athlete to accomplish a lot of work in a short period of time. This translates into faster running, higher jumps, and vastly improved performance.

So how does power help the "person trying to get into shape"? The answer lies in the volume of work you can accomplish per unit time. Increased power (specifically aerobic power) allows for a much higher rate of work. In turn the body is forced to adapt by increasing energy consumption (weight loss), and laying down the physiological framework that allows for increased workloads. These physiological changes include, increased capillarization around lung alveoli, increased lean tissue mass (muscle), and increased metabolic rate. All of these changes translate into better fitness..............faster.

There will be more on power as I believe it is not understood well and needs a much better reputation.

I also wanted to post a video of the late great Andy Hug, the mustachioed Swiss kickboxing phenom. Andy was a great martial artist and fighter, perhaps the last of his kind. He died of cancer at the young age of 35. Rest in peace Andy. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tb6BbwKiPHQ