Ryu arm workout
This an integrated workout designed to cultivate a physique similar to
that of Ryu, Martial Arts master from SF. It places emphasis on strong arms,
particularly the deltoids, as Ryu clearly worked hard on his deltoid and bicep
separation. I have included a few yoga poses, the bakasana developing strong
arms and delts, as well as working on the balance. The back bridge will aid in
opening the rib rage and defining the linea alba of the rectus abdominis, as
Ryu’s core is toned (and replete with muscular hypertrophy), and his linea alba
is clearly visible, giving his abdominals that «framed» symmetrical look. In SF II the Animated Movie, Ryu, while traveling
through the Himalayas, can be seen meditating in kokutsu dachi (後屈立), or back stance, so I have included it at the end of the workout. Also
presented here are the 8 pieces of brocade (八段錦), a staple of Qi Gong training, and while originating
from China, I still feel that Ryu, being fond of frequent meditation (often
while standing), would have been at least familiar with this set, and perhaps
would have used it when concentrating on his breathing. All in all, the workout
integrates practices from Kung Fu, Yoga, and Ryu’s native Karate. For
developing the flexibility and sheer muscle and fibre density of Ryu, regular Kung
Fu combined with strength training (with weights) would appear to be the most
effect from of training with these goals in mind.
(Disclaimer: Please consult a physician before undertaking any new training programme. Obviously, this workout is based on a character from a video game, and what I present here, although taken from real life martial arts practices, should be seen as only for entertainment purposes, or for people who are very fond of the Street Fighter series).
(Disclaimer: Please consult a physician before undertaking any new training programme. Obviously, this workout is based on a character from a video game, and what I present here, although taken from real life martial arts practices, should be seen as only for entertainment purposes, or for people who are very fond of the Street Fighter series).
For
mass and arm endurance
- Standing dumbbell laterals 4 sets of 10X
- Dumbbell shrugs with heavy poundage 3X 10.
- Military press 4X 15, 12, 10, 8. (works upper delts)
- Arnold press 3X 15, light to medium poundage.
- बकासन (bakasana) Crane Pose. 5X until failure or until falling over. (also improves balance). ?In the beginning, you can rest your head on a pillow or mattress in order to build up strength and balance.
dào tǐng shēn
(back bridge) «backwards push up». Start with 10X,
then 20X, gradually working your way up to 30 times.
Muscles involved
in back bridge, dào tǐng shēn:
Qi Gong
八段錦 (Baduanjin qigong).
8 pieces of brocade, standing set. 24 repetitions for each movement. ?On the «ma bu» or horse stance, bend the knees further to increase
difficulty of exercise. This will help tone and build strength in the thighs and
legs in general.
Martial stances (Karate)
kokutsu dachi (後屈立) - Back Stance. 3 minutes, engaging dān tián while breathing.
Ryu engaged in kokutsu dachi,
on a clear day in the Himalayas, ca. 1994.
Neko Ashi Dachi (猫足立) - Cat Stance. 3 minutes, engaging dān tián while breathing.
