The value of impact training and conditioning

The Value of Impact Training in Silat

One of the most important lessons in Silat or any martial art training is the value of impact conditioning. It’s not just about learning to deliver strikes, but about preparing your body—and your mind—to take a hit. The pain and sting from bone-on-bone contact, like forearms clashing, can be enough to distract anyone, but that’s exactly where conditioning comes in. It teaches you to endure, to stay calm, and to keep moving forward.

Forearm conditioning is particularly vital. With time and practice, the sting fades, and the focus sharpens. That’s the key—it’s not just about toughening up your body, it’s about training your mind to push through discomfort. In moments of real conflict, a conditioned forearm and mind could mean the difference between hesitation and quick action.


Bruises come and go

I recently had a training experience that again drove this home. I took a controlled hit to the side of my ribs, and it felt like the energy bounced around inside my body. The physical sensation was intense, but what stood out most was how my mind responded. It wasn’t just about the pain, it was about staying present and calm through it. That’s the true benefit of impact training—developing the mental resilience to stay focused under pressure.

My first experience with impact training involved conditioning shins, quads, and forearms. These areas took hits in a controlled manner, and while the soreness was real, the long-term benefits were even more significant. It taught me that conditioning isn’t just about hardening your body, but about preparing your mind to stay resilient!

I plan to make impact conditioning a regular part of my training—at least once a month. It’s not just about being physically tough; it’s also about building the mental resilience to stay calm, focused, and determined, no matter what comes your way.

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