Gee, more than 30 years ago, it was a rule that before a taxing karate workout, that you only did “loosening” exercises, to make sure there were not muscle, tendon, or joint “surprises” that would come out during the workout.
This would be followed by some unusual mild strength and endurance exercises, only about 30 seconds to a minute each, which would also loosen up the internal organs, give the back muscles and selected joints a test from odd angles, as well. This had everything from “Sumo push ups”, which are a rocking motion, standing leg lifts, and some light kicks.
Only then would you get into the karate workout.
Stretching was saved for after, as part of the “cool down” after the workout. It was always long, slow tension, never bouncing, which could damage muscle.
Only then would you get into the karate workout.
Stretching was saved for after, as part of the “cool down” after the workout. It was always long, slow tension, never bouncing, which could damage muscle.
Years ago, when I was doing Karate, this was exactly what was done. A little loosening up first, and the stretching came after the workout. In fact, stretching after the workout felt exceptionally good.