The Strength Training Secrets of The World's Strongest Athletes: Gymnasts

It's next to impossible to study bodyweight training for very long without hearing about gymnastics.

When most of us hear the word gymnastics, one of the first things that come to mind is the Olympic Games.

Originating in Greece, the world's first Olympic games were held in 776 B.C. in honor of the god Zeus. Unlike today's huge Olympic line up, the first games only featured a lone event - a 200 yard footrace.

It wasn't until much later, 1896 to be exact, that gymnastics entered into their first large scale competitions - despite the fact that the art of gymnastics dates back more than 2,000 years. Germany dominated the field.

On the other hand, when you think of "gymnastics" you probably don't envision warfare and battle.

But you should...

More than a "mere" sport, gymnastics training offered a competitive edge - soldiers who were stronger, faster, more flexible and much nimbler. Dating as far back as 800 B.C. several empires had organized gymnastics as a part of their regular military training. Greece, china, Persia and India relied heavily upon it.

I know, I know - all of this is interesting stuff, but what does it have to do with bodyweight training and exercises?

Everything!

Especially when you consider that modern gymnasts rely almost exclusively on bodyweight exercises throughout their training. And for ancient gymnasts, that reliance was even greater.

It's THAT effective!

It's so effective that many trainers recommend a regular bodyweight training regiment as a foundation to build every athletic endeavor upon.

Why is bodyweight training so powerful?

Bodyweight exercises are based on three major principles: resistance, leverage and contraction. Resistance and leverage can be found in most exercise programs, but the contractions to be gained from bodyweight training are so much more effective than in other avenues.

Why?

Because when you exercise, the harder your muscular contractions are over a greater area, the more effective your training will be.

Many bodyweight exercises require complete full-body contraction and a number of static holds.

While those full-body contractions are increasing the effectiveness of your work out, static holds (especially those held in a disadvantaged leverage position, like one armed push-ups) multiply the resistance of our bodyweight and improve joint strength, connective tissues and our overall strength.

Perhaps the biggest obstacle you'll face in bodyweight training is patience. This isn't one of those programs you can start for two weeks and then suddenly see jaw-dropping results. Sure, you'll see results. Your lover will notice them too! But, in order to squeeze the most benefits and the most results out of your training, you're going to have to be dedicated enough to invest what so many gymnasts already have - your time!

By incorporating consistent, incremental improvements and gains, within 6 months you'll be able to notice HUGE results - in your biceps, triceps, chest, abs, glutes and legs.

Not to mention you balance, finesse, stamina and confidence...

In just half a year, you'll have tapped into a secret that's been in existence for millennia - just waiting for you to take it seriously...

Rhadi Ferguson is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. Rhadi Ferguson trains World Class Athletes and in an Expert in Bodyweight Training. Ferguson is also a 2004 Olympian in Judo and a 4-Time National Judo Champion. If you desire to learn more information about bodyweight exercise and bodyweight training you may visit his websites at http://www.TheBodyWeightWorkout.com and http://www.TheBackyardWorkout.net for the best in bodyweight training and bodyweight exercise.