This post will venture into the subject of resistance training and how it contributes to the objective of strong stable alignment throughout desired movement patterns.
Resistance Training-An adaptive process; moving towards alignment of body, mind and spirit.
Resistance Training creates a transition imbalance that requires an adaptation in the myofascial system and through tensegrity to all fascial systems and processes in order to sustain the body in alignment and without injury.
The following link presents one resistance training system that is consistent with the goals of taijiquan.
Drew Baye on High Intensity Training
All resistance training to failure results in adaptation. This includes badly aligned training and over-training, both of which can result in dysfunction and/or structural changes, especially over time. The objective is to train in alignment with a balance between work and rest. The most efficient training will produce the best results when combined with the necessary rest for adaptation to take place.
The development of lean muscle mass can have the desired result of an ideal or enhanced physique for a body builder or strength for a Power lifter. It also has a positive impact on mitochondria at the cellular level with enhanced metabolic efficiency which can be viewed as synonymous with health.
Movement Awareness may not be necessary for adaptation to take place, but enhanced awareness focus is essential for efficient resistance training to promote the greatest alignment within the training purpose.
Working towards optimal muscle fatigue for adaptation is called working to failure. The mental state that identifies when failure has been reached requires long practice over time to reach that critical point. Understanding the meaning of each resistance movement will enhance efficiency of results and reduce the likelihood of injury.
Drew Baye points out the importance of focusing on the objective of muscle fatigue rather than just completing a number of reps or sets. The slow cadence of H.I.T. allows one to maintain that focus, but it does require awareness throughout the exercise.
