Martial Arts Combat Training » Training Techniques http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com Combat Sports & Conditioning, Reality-Based Martial Arts Tue, 13 Jul 2010 00:31:06 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0.1 Fast Martial Arts Training Improvements http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/fast-martial-arts-training-improvments/ http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/fast-martial-arts-training-improvments/#comments Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:29:22 +0000 Coach Bruce Pahl http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/?p=932

If you’re looking for some fast results in your martial arts training try the following quick tips.

  1. Work on your explosive power by adding low to mid rep strength training.
    • 5-10 reps of 3 sets of the basic strength exercises, such as Dead lift, Bench, Dips, Standing overhead press, Squat, Pull-Ups, Barbell or Dumbbell rows.
    • Rest 1-3 minutes between sets. Increase weight with each set. Use proper form and perform this workout 2-3 times a week with a day or two rest between workouts.
  2. Work on your accuracy. It won’t matter how hard you can hit if you keep missing the target. Focus mitts, Kick shields, double end bags, and heavy bags will greatly help you with your target accuracy. Hitting a stationary target or standing in front of a heavy bag and wailing away at it will not help your accuracy or footwork. You must move your body while training if it is going to be effective and reality based. Have a training partner hold some mitts and have them move after each striking combination.
  3. Work on your balance.  To quote Mr. Miyagi; “If balance no good, Karate no good!” You don’t have to be a high kicker or grappler to need good balance. All martial artists should work on learning how to maintain their balance while upsetting their opponents.
  4. Improve and maintain your flexibility. A loose muscle is faster and stronger. Muscle tension will come whether we strength train or not. Over use injuries happen due to imbalances in the body. Muscle relaxation and looseness is the opposite of muscle tension. Keep your hips, spine and joints mobile and you will be a better martial arts athlete, have less pain and will maintain your youthfulness as you get older. Ask any young child to do a split or to touch the floor with their palms and knees locked and the majority can do it. Ask most teens and adults and the majority cannot. We are all born with flexibility and mobility but if we don’t maintain it and work at it we will lose it, like any good relationship or job.
]]> http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/fast-martial-arts-training-improvments/feed/ 1 Stone Warrior Hand & Arm Conditioning http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/stone-warrior-hand-arm-conditioning/ http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/stone-warrior-hand-arm-conditioning/#comments Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:59:11 +0000 Coach Bruce Pahl http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/?p=902

Stone Warrior hand and arm conditioning is a necessary foundation for all martial arts training and conditioning programs. We’ve all heard the story, or seen the Kung Fu movie of the Iron Palm Master who with one palm strike could inflict internal damage or even death on their unsuspecting victims.

While this may be true or just legend, it does not change the fact that iron fist and iron palm training is valid and a necessary but often overlooked preparation for all martial arts styles and even combat sports. It is a fact that multiple professional boxers and MMA fighters have broken their wrapped and gloved hands while fighting in mixed martial arts events. Recently Urijah Faber from World Extreme Cage fighting (WEC) broke both his hands while fighting. He did extremely well by using his elbows and kicks, but was unable to punch or grapple without the use of his hands. There has also been at least two or more reported cases where professional boxers have broken their hands while street fighting.

Developing fast and powerful punches through strength conditioning, plyometric training, technique training and speed drills are another foundational training protocol that all martial artists with any type of real skill practice. The more muscle, power and speed that we develop in our bodies the more bone density, joint & tendon strength, skin elasticity and resistance to impact we need. The harder you hit the more damage you can do to yourself. But also the harder you can hit with a rock hard fist, palm or forearm the more damage you can inflict on your attacker.

Doing Damage

In a reality based situation it is not only easy but highly probable that you will hit something hard whether that be the other persons skull, elbow, teeth, the wall or the even the ground. This is why open hand striking techniques are preferred by the military in combative situations. If you break your hand by punching then you will not be able to deploy a weapon if the need arises or grab and hold something if necessary. A police officer once told me that three officers broke their hands with fist punching in altercations just in one week alone.

There are four main reasons why this happens:

  1. Most cops, civilians and many martial arts styles do not know how to punch properly by using a vertical flat fist and punching in a straight line.
  2. They don’t know where to punch (proper target acquisition).
  3. They don’t know how to use open handed striking and how to generate power using proper body mechanics.
  4. Finally, according to this article, most people do not do proper hand conditioning.

What are best methods and most effective ways to condition the hands, arms and limbs?

Specialized training equipment, tools and training partners are the best way to accomplish this. The least expensive way is the single section or three section canvas striking bag.  Also known as the Makiwara bag or wall mounted iron palm bag. These heavy duty canvas bags were designed to hold a varity of filling materials such as sand, steel bb’s, smooth rocks or corn. By using a special Chinese herbal liniment (Dit Da Jow) your practice and conditioning can be progressive and safe. These bags will help you to learn how to punch using the proper fist &  punching angles, will strengthen your wrists, help develop short range punching power, combination punching, forearm and elbow striking & impact conditioning.

You can also use a Makiwara board that is made with firm foam and wrapped in canvas. This board is good for hand conditioning and short range power.

Heavy bag training is a standard method for most people for hand and elbow conditioning. Four or five foot bags are great for boxing and high kicking but for shin, foot conditioning and low kicking practice the Muay Thai bag is the best choice. We recommend that most people should use bag gloves with wrist wraps and training shoes while learning proper techniques or when using maximum power during training, but periodic sessions of using no gear can be beneficial. Caution must be taken because a sprained wrist or broken toe will put a delay in your training progress. Muay Thai fighters don’t wear gloves and shoes but they also start conditioning at a very young age while the body is still developing and their careers usually end in their 20’s for that very reason.

Wooden Dummy Training

Wing Chun/JKD wooden training dummies are my personal favorite training tool. Immortal Martial Arts was started because of the training dummies. The versatility and real life application makes the wooden training dummy second only to a training partner. In one way it is much better, because you can’t hit a partner with full power or with sticks and hard training knives, but with the dummy you can. The dummy will not only give you hands of stone and forearms of steel but will give you the ability to stick to your opponent and use highly effective footwork.

Focus Mitt Training

By hitting focus mitts with no gloves you will not only toughen your fists, palms and elbows but you will learn target accuracy and footwork. Mitt training will also teach you how to evade and defend against offensive attacks. You can also use mitts for kicking practice which will develop flexibility and balance.

Dit Da Jow (bruise liniment) – No proper hand or limb conditioning should be done without using a quality herbal liniment. Here are a few benefits for using Jow.

  1. Makes skin more elastic
  2. Decreases swelling
  3. Protects against tissue and bone bruising
  4. Increases circulation
  5. Speeds recovery time so you can train more often
  6. Protects against blood clots
]]> http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/stone-warrior-hand-arm-conditioning/feed/ 0 Battling Ropes® Video Vault http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/battling-ropes-video-vault/ http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/battling-ropes-video-vault/#comments Fri, 02 Oct 2009 01:29:50 +0000 Coach Bruce Pahl http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/?p=488

If you’re sceptical about how a piece of rope can give you the best workout of your life, check out these videos and see the Battling Ropes in action! 

Order Battling Ropes Now!

Order Battling Ropes Now!

]]> http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/battling-ropes-video-vault/feed/ 0 Battling Ropes® Tsunami http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/battling-ropes-tsunami/ http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/battling-ropes-tsunami/#comments Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:16:13 +0000 John Brookfield http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/?p=399

The Battling Ropes® Tsunami is quickly becoming the wave of the future when it comes to a standard way to test an athlete’s ability to maintain and sustain velocity and power.

“This has been a great eye opener to a missing link in training, which is the ability to maintain and sustain velocity and power over time without the use of momentum.It has also been a humbling experience, to say the least. The results that can be gained with the Battling Ropes® Tsunami are purely amazing when it comes to being able to maintain intensity over time. This intensity over time will transfer into anything you do. It is my goal and passion to get this training exercise out to everyone wanting to improve their performance in sport or the battlefield. I know that the Battling Ropes® Tsunami will take you past the next level and safely push you to achieve your highest level in human performance!” John Brookfield, Founder Battling Ropes®

The Battling Ropes® Tsunami is simple in concept, however, extremely difficult to maintain for any duration of time. This technique was developed by Battling Ropes® creator John Brookfield.
 
Everyone who has tried the Tsunami, without exception, has been completely amazed by its effectiveness to test the individual’s ability to generate and maintain power and velocity. They have been equally amazed at the difficulty of the exercise when it comes to pushing the athlete to their limit very quickly!
 
One unique thing about the Battling Ropes® Tsunami is that the user must generate pure output without any momentum. When no momentum is used, the body is forced to perform at its highest level of performance. With all other methods of training, momentum is used as gravity takes over and this gives the body a slight chance to rest. When trying to train or test an athlete, this momentum factor is poison for the individual who wants to train their body to operate at its highest level.
 
The Tsunami technique is done with a rope and, as the name says, a tsunami or “powerful wave” is created by the person’s power and velocity generation on the rope. The only thing is that the person must create and sustain these powerful waves for as long as possible without stopping or losing the flow of the waves. It is important to understand that if the person is strong, but not fast, he will struggle with the technique. On the other hand, if the person is fast, but not strong, they will struggle to sustain the Tsunami. 

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers go at it on the Tsunami

You will also find that the user must have a great anaerobic threshold to maintain the Tsunami and score well on the test. Every muscle of the body and every physical and mental fiber must be used to maintain the Battling Ropes® Tsunami. The testing and training method will also quickly expose any weak link the athlete may have and start to improve the weak link. Even though the Battling Ropes® Tsunami is becoming a standard way of testing the athlete, it is also a way to train the athlete to produce tremendous results which will produce transfer into any sport or battlefield.

2" Anaconda

2" Anaconda

To train or test on the Tsunami…

You simply need a fifty-foot, two-inch diameter rope. The Anaconda (pictured) is perfect for the Tsunami! It is a thick, heavy duty Battling Rope® which is slightly over 2 inches in diameter and 50 feet in length. The “Anaconda” is also made of high grade manila and is treated for longevity and durability.
 
Please note that the “Anaconda” is slightly over twice the weight of the standard Battling Rope®. This thickness also plays a part in making the “Anaconda” much harder to grip and hang on to. This rope should only be used by the advanced and elite athlete. Different types of ropes are different when it comes to the weight of the rope. The manila rope is generally used for the training or testing.

Also, by using the manila fifty-foot, two-inch diameter rope you are equally able to make the test standardized and able to measure your performance against another athlete’s performance. You will also find that the surface can make a slight difference. However, your ability to sustain the Battling Ropes® Tsunami and maintain the waves over time will not vary much no matter what the surface.

Wrestlers going at it in the stadium

Wrestlers going at it in the stadium

You can either have your rope stretched out in an outdoor setting such as a park, football field, playground, or your backyard, or you can use an indoor setting such as a basketball floor or large gym.
 
Simply take your fifty-foot, two-inch diameter rope and lay it on the ground while stretching it out so that the slack is taken out of the rope. Once the rope is in this position, have a partner or friend stand on one end of the rope at the very end.
 
If you are training or testing yourself without a partner, you can simply place a couple of heavy weight plates on top of the very end of the rope to stabilize the rope. Another way to stabilize the rope if you are by yourself is to tie the very end of the rope around a pole to secure it. However, you must understand that you are creating the Battling Ropes® Tsunami with the entire fifty-foot rope. So, if you tie the rope around a pole you must tie the very end so that you are not losing much length of the rope. This way you can train and test yourself equally with others.
 
Also, as mentioned earlier, we generally use the fifty-foot, two-inch diameter manila rope for the testing instead of the poly ropes. Even though the poly ropes are popular for training indoors and you can certainly train on the Tsunami with a poly rope, it is important to understand the fifty-foot, two-inch poly rope is lighter than the manila. This, of course, will make the Battling Ropes® Tsunami somewhat easier and will make your performance slightly better than if you were using the manila rope.

Once you have your rope in place and properly anchored, you are ready to begin!

Be sure to have your coach or partner have an accurate stop watch on hand. If you are by yourself, I suggest using a large clock where you can easily see the time. Now, with everything in place, grasp with both hands the opposite end of the rope which is anchored. You can either use an underhanded or overhanded grip with one hand in front of the other. Get a good tight grip and start to force the rope up and down powerfully and quickly. This will start to create the wave action or “Tsunami” effect which will make the rope start to flow.
 
With enough force, you will be able to create the wave (or Tsunami) going all the way to the other end of the rope. Please understand that your goal is to keep the Tsunami rolling nonstop without slowing all the way to the opposite end of the rope. In simple terms, it’s like waves constantly crashing or rolling onto the shoreline. You will quickly understand that you must maintain constant velocity and power output to keep the Tsunami going. Your goal is to last as long as possible without the Tsunami stopping or not making it to the other end of the rope. You will also notice that the more output you create the faster and more waves you create in the Tsunami.

Once you lose your flow of the rope and the Tsunami is not making it to the other end, you are finished as far as the testing goes. Once again, be sure to measure the time that you are able to keep the Tsunami rolling to the other end. I’m sure that you will find that this training or testing will work and push you to the utmost. There is also no way to gain advantage on this drill — you can either keep the Battling Ropes® Tsunami going or you can’t!
 
The Battling Ropes® Tsunami has quickly made believers out of everyone who has tried it!  Read the testimonials!

Order Battling Ropes Now!

Order Battling Ropes Now!

]]> http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/battling-ropes-tsunami/feed/ 0 Official Battling Ropes® Q&A http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/official-battling-ropes%c2%ae-qa/ http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/official-battling-ropes%c2%ae-qa/#comments Sun, 20 Sep 2009 23:09:07 +0000 John Brookfield http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/?p=348

The Battling Ropes System® allows the world-class athlete or competitor to push their limits to the point of failure in a safe manner. But, the Battling Ropes System® is also user-friendly enough for the average person wishing to lose a few pounds and get in better shape.

This training will give anyone great results whether your performance is a must in sport, military, law enforcement, or you simply wish to look and feel better. The key point to remember with the Battling Ropes System® is that you will not only generate more power, but maintain the power over a much longer duration.

Who created this system?

The official Battling Ropes® System was created John Brookfield, who is a leader in the strength and fitness world for many years.

John is a highly respected strong man and is known around the globe for his amazing feats of strength and endurance and has appeared on a variety of television shows like “Regis and Kathie Lee”, “The Today Show”, and “Good Morning America” just to name a few.  John has been featured in “Ripley’s Believe It Or Not” and the “Guinness Book of World Records”, as well as several publications including “MMA Sports”, “Fighters Only” and “The Washington Post”. [Learn more]

Why was this system created?

John created this system and was using and developing it for his own training needs. John basically created the foundation of the Battling Ropes® from the concept of a hurricane where the constant flow of the waves gave him the idea to create a series of waves with the ropes.  Since this unique system was created it has exploded around the world.  They say “imitation is the best form of flattery” and this rings true with John’s system, but there’s only one Battling Ropes® System and you can’t get John’s wealth of knowledge and years of training experience with copycats.   The imitators just point to the fact that John’s training system WORKS and the results speak for themselves!

Why is the Battling Ropes® training system different from other training systems?

The Battling Ropes® System is unlike any other training method due to the non-momentum effect. For example, with other methods such as barbells, dumbbells and kettlebells gravity takes over as the weight goes back towards the ground. During this time when gravity takes over, momentum is used which gives the body and mind a chance to relax. With the Battling Ropes® training velocity is used and must be maintained throughout the training. This forces the user to train or compete at a higher level of intensity which will last longer durations of time.

Are there different concepts to the training system?

Yes, there are actually seven different elements and concepts to the Battling Ropes® System. The first concept is maintaining velocity which is the sustaining of the waves with the ropes. The second concept is the strength endurance phase which is the Pole System training. The other five methods have not been released yet but are in the works.

How long should it take to get results?

You will immediately enjoy and see the tremendous benefits of the training. However, velocity training is a missing link in training and will be challenging. With some steady work and determination, your body will start to adjust to the velocity training and you will see results that will transfer into your sport or personal battlefield.

Why do you use 50-foot ropes?
Much research was used to come up with the 50-foot rope as the standard rope for the velocity training. The 50-foot rope allows someone to progress properly through the system and continue to get results. Also, we start younger athletes on the standard 50-foot ropes due to the visual motivation factor. For example, if you have a fourteen-year-old female athlete who can’t roll the wave or waves all the way to the end, she has visual motivation and can see what the goal is. After a few workouts she can see her waves getting stronger and going farther. This, of course, is very motivating and forces her to work harder.

What are the 100 foot ropes used for?

The 100-foot ropes are used for the Pole System, which is the strength endurance phase of the system.

What is the difference between the Poly and Manila ropes?

The poly ropes are a non-shed synthetic rope which are water resistant and made for long life and durability. They do not shed fibers and are perfect for inside use where you don’t want the shedding. The traditional manila ropes are like the ones people use to climb in gym class. They are durable, however, do not last as long as the poly ropes. They do shed some fibers at times and are good for outside training or training in a garage or basement if you don’t mind cleaning up.

Who’s using the Battling Ropes?

It’s a worldwide phenomenon!  This partial list includes just some of the people using the ropes.  Read some of their testimonies also.

  • Professional MMA fighters, trainers & coaches
  • Strength & Conditioning coaches
  • RKC Kettlebell Instructors
  • CrossFit Trainers
  • Olympic Wrestling & Judo Gold Metal Champions
  • NFL, High school & College Football Teams
  • Fire Fighters, Police Officers, SWAT
  • Personal Fitness Trainers
  • Highland Games & Stone Lifting Champions
  • Martial Arts Black Belt Champions
  • U.S. Military (Army, Marines & Special Forces)
  • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu World Champion
  • Bally Fitness Trainers
  • Physical Therapists
  • The handicap & wheel chair bound
  • Power Lifting/Body Building Champions
  • Men & women for general fitness/weight loss
  • Youth Athletes & YMCA

Can I learn the Battling Ropes® and get certified?

Yes, John Brookfield trains and does coaches certifications. Please visit his site for information on the certification process.

How can I purchase the Battling Ropes®?

Immortal Martial Arts, Inc. is the exclusive supplier of all Battling Ropes products including ropes, DVDs, manuals and eBooks.

]]> http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/official-battling-ropes%c2%ae-qa/feed/ 1 Battling Ropes® Testimonials http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/battling-ropes-testimonials/ http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/battling-ropes-testimonials/#comments Sun, 20 Sep 2009 22:57:21 +0000 Coach Bruce Pahl http://www.martial-arts-combat-training.com/?p=385

Ingrid Marcum, CSCS, USA Weightlifting National Champion, USA Bobsled World Team member, IngridMarcum.com – “As an athlete who has trained at an elite level for almost 30 years, it takes a lot for a new training system to impress me. But within just a few sessions, John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes training system had clearly improved my power, strength, and muscular endurance. My sports–weightlifting and bobsledding–require a unique combination of strength and explosiveness, and Battling Ropes offers great physical and mental results. The ropes are simple to learn but tough to master! I am a better athlete thanks to John’s encouraging guidance and his unwavering commitment to personal excellence. John is an amazing athlete and mentor who knows from experience what works when it comes to strength and conditioning.”

Chip Morton - Professional Football Strength & Conditioning Coach – “We were privileged to have Mr. John Brookfield present the Battling Ropes system to our staff a few years ago and were able to experience firsthand the value of this innovative training method. We have since included the Battling Ropes in our program for a number of different applications on a year round basis. It is quite simply, a demanding and highly effective tool to increase power and the ability to endure. “ 

Kevin Kearns, BS, Exercise Physiology, Strength and Conditioning Coach for MMA fighters Kenny Florian, Kurt Pellegrino and Marcus Davis – “I have seen many old tools in strength and conditioning come back into favor over my years. Ropes used for climbing drills were essential conditioning tools in many sports for high level conditioning. However, I have to say I am truly impressed with the Battling Ropes system from John Brookfield. It is off the shelf and unique which are two points we like to use in the Burn With Kearns training. The drills are very adaptable for any sport, especially mixed martial arts. We use them regularly to train our MMA athletes and fighters.”

Master Alan Goldberg, Wing Chun Master, Publisher, Action Martial Arts Magazine – “After Receiving the Battling Ropes, myself and my students started to use and try all the many different ways it could be used. Being a Wing Chun Teacher, 70% of our training is surrounded around the upper body. After a week of use, myself and my students noticed the benefits of the outstanding Battling Ropes system of exercises and training. I’m sure all my students will benefit from this in the excellent way the system is put together. To say the least, after the first workout we knew this was what the doctor ordered.” 

Frank DiMeo, Owner CrossFit Gulf Coast, Sarasota, FL – I got to train with John Brookfield a few months ago at the Battling Ropes Certification we hosted at my gym, CrossFit Gulf Coast. John’s instruction was superb, to say the least. After using Battling Ropes for several months, my performance has improved measureably. All my metabolic conditioning workouts have gotten better, as well as my overall strength & power. Anyone who is not using Battling Ropes is missing out on a tremendous performance enhancing program!

Stuart R. Rivera Brothers Boxing – “Battling Ropes show the truth in training!  There are no lies with the ropes. At times athletes may coast or “dog” a training session. They may try to fool the coach but they can’t fool the ropes! When coaching and training an athlete with the Battling Ropes you see immediately just how hard your athletes are performing. This gives essential feedback to the athlete without words and motivates them to step up! Working with the Battling Ropes SIMULATES ACTUAL COMPETITION PERFORMANCE!”

Bud Jeffries, Professional Strength Athlete, World Record Holder – “Almost everything in the strength and conditioning worlds is rediscovery. I know that all the muscle magazines and everyone in the world touts whatever their particular training is this month as the ‘newest cutting-edge discovery,’ but if you understand the real history of strength and conditioning you’ll know that almost everything has been done before, forgotten and then ‘rediscovered.’ John has come up with what I believe is one of the only authentically innovative training methods in the last 100 years – and there are few. I truly appreciated being able to learn this system from its originator. Anyone else who’s showing rope training is copying John. I know of almost no other method that allows you to train velocity and forces you to maintain it along with pure physical output over a period of time. The strength and conditioning benefits to be gained here are unheard of. In fact this may be one of the keys to unlocking the next level of human performance. Add that to the incredible safety and simplicity of the training and you just can’t beat it. I’m one of the most hardcore trainers anyone on the planet will ever meet and make no mistake this training looks easy, but it’s the farthest thing from it. You may be saying to yourself, “What can you possibly do slapping those ropes around?” All you need to do is get the guts to try it and you’ll see. If it makes the most in-shape people on the planet breath like a tornado and beg for mercy – which it does – don’t you think you shouldn’t miss out on it?”

Michael Srock, Speed & Strength Coach, James F. Byrnes High School, Duncan, South Carolina, #1 Ranked High School Program Nationally and 8-time South Carolina State Football Champions – “Awesome…is the only word to describe John Brookfield’s Strength and Speed Development Program presented at James F. Byrnes High School. We at Byrnes High were honored that a strength professional with John Brookfield’s worldwide reputation took the time and effort to work with our high school football team. Coach Brookfield’s Battling Ropes training system will become a vital part of our athletic development program. We have already begun using the Tsunami Wave rope drill and the Tasmanian Devil towel drill during our speed training workouts. Coach Brookfield was the ultimate professional when teaching his drills. He took the time to explain and demonstrate each drill so that our players quickly mastered the necessary techniques. His Battling Ropes program is simple to learn, cost effective, can be done almost anywhere and is an effective training tool for both genders and any sport! We feel strongly enough about the Battling Ropes program that John Brookfield has been invited to present his training program to all of the athletic coaches in South Carolina at the South Carolina Athletic Coaches Association Annual Clinic in North Charleston, South Carolina. I feel that any team or school that incorporates a John Brookfield training program will get better immediately! The James F. Byrnes High Rebels will keep up our association with John Brookfield for many years.”

Chief J. Brabon, Founder & Global Master Trainer Original Boot Camp - “John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes program is the single most innovative program I have experienced in my 18+ years in the fitness industry. I can have 100 Recruits step up with absolutely no rope training experience and have them all training at a high intensity in absolute safety and with great form in literally less than a minute. What’s more, I can have a de-conditioned housewife training right next to an elite Special Forces operative and be assured that they are both getting a great workout.”

Scott Ramsdell, President, Athletic Performance, Inc. Strength & Conditioning Coach for Brock Lesnar, Sean Sherk and Kaitlin Young – “John’s Battling Ropes system is one of a kind. As owner of Athletic Performance, Inc. and founder of the Caveman Training™ system, I thought I was in good shape. Boy, was I wrong. The two days I spent with John wiped me out! John’s system is so unique and revolutionary that I instilled it into our training programs as soon as I got home from his training. After implementing the system, my athletes have noticed a dramatic increase in their fitness level. Their conditioning, grip strength and pain tolerance are now through the roof. John is a consummate professional, an awesome instructor and now a great friend. I look forward to a long relationship with John and the Battling Ropes System.”

Greg Thompson, Chief Combative Instructor, H2H, Owner of Team ROC, Professional MMA school – “It was an absolute privilege to train with John. He has extraordinary skills and creativity. The Battling Ropes Training System is a unique way of training for combat or for the cage. I would recommend training with John to anyone.”

Jon Hinds, Owner & Founder, Monkey Bar Gymnasium, Former NBA Strength & Conditioning Coach – “I came in thinking I knew all the basics of the Battling Ropes having used them for over 2 years and what John showed me blew my mind! It was great! I was really happy to see all the other ways of using your Battling Ropes and look forward to learning more great drills. The simple effectiveness of the Battling Ropes is amazing and the manner that you showed the drills made it easy for all to implement into their training regimes. I know we have already added many of the drills to our workouts and have only had 110% positive feedback…they all were cussing during the workout! Ha, ha! The quick hands drill is awesome! I highly recommend John’s Battling Ropes training as it is simple, extremely effective and will greatly improve strength, power and endurance like crazy!”

Sue Cadigan – “Fast, honest and efficient!  We are very impressed with how fast our order arrived. It is obvious that Bruce (from Immortal) has a true passion and real experience with these ropes. The Battling Ropes and the DVD’s we ordered have been an outstanding addition to training. Especially nice, is that the mind gets trained as well as the body!  Strong Mind, strong body!”

David Whitley, Sr., RKC, IronTamer.com – “A few months ago, I was speaking on the phone with John Brookfield about the subject strength and the ability to sustain effort over time, which is something both of us are fascinated by and value very highly. “You know, David,” he said. “I have developed a new training system I call Battling Ropes. You should check it out, I really think you’d like it.” Coming from John and knowing his reputation and achievements, I expected it to be awesome. I was not disappointed! I got the DVDs and a 50-foot, 2-inch thick manila rope. After scanning through the DVDs, I drug the rope out of the box in my backyard and looped through a kettlebell handle. After about 10 minutes of doing the Battling Ropes drills I had a great sweat going, my heart was racing and I had effectively worked everything from my grip and hands to my hamstrings and all points in between. The rope is now a part of my own workouts several days a week. Some days it is the main component, some days I use it to completly finish myself off after I do my regular kettlebell workouts. John’s Battling Ropes training system is a unique, effective and painful way to improve your ability to generate sustained force and speed. John’s concept of continuous velocity (what he calls the combination of strength and speed at the same time) will stress your entire system all at once. Strength, power and endurance are all affected at the same time and very quickly. It works!”

Shawn Manning, RKC Instructor and Battling Ropes Coach – “My heart rate has never gotten up so fast! Battling Ropes is an incredible smoker for the entire body, inside and out. John Brookfield has developed a system that I can use with clients of all levels to deliver amazing results. Because of the wide variety of exercises you can do with the ropes, you will never get bored. If you want a versatile and effective training tool, train with John to learn the Battling Ropes!”

Greg Amundson, Crossfit coach and record holder, Crossfit Santa Cruz – “What is most amazing about Battling Ropes is the man who teaches the system. A legend in his own time, John Brookfield is a man of immense character and passion for physical and spiritual growth. From the moment I first touched the ropes, I knew I was in for a workout I wouldn’t soon forget. John’s ability to teach was profound: In addition to his physical abilities as an athlete, he imparted on me a deep understanding of Battling Ropes and the significance of velocity training. I am excited to continue my training in Battling Ropes. I am certain his system will enhance my athletic abilities and my performance in the CrossFit workouts. Thanks, John!”

Mark Philippi, Seven-time World’s Strongest Man competitor, America’s Strongest Man winner, 1977, Owner, Philippi Sports Institute – “John Brookfield’s one-mile endurance truck pulls are a great feat of strength and strength endurance. They require great conditioning and great mental toughness. John has developed a tremendous degree of both.”

Andy Hendel, Former NFL Special Teams Captain, Miami Dolphins, Owner, CrossFit Charlotte – “As an ex-NFL player and college football coach, John has given me another way to train my athletes with his Battling Ropes. John’s Battling Ropes system develops mid-line stabilization, digital strength and, best of all, an intense anaerobic workout that can be used for any sport or occupation. Strength training at high intensity transfers into power and speed and this is what John has developed with his Battling Ropes system.”

David Ellis, National Judo Champion, Olympic Judo Team – “Battling Ropes training is great. It is a total body sprint. I nearly blacked out my first try. Days later, my arms were still pumped. I love being able to go full fury without having to worry about something breaking or getting hurt. The workout leaves my lungs feeling larger and I noticed better stamina after only two sessions.”

Emily Hames, Director of Operations, Original Bootcamp International – “A truly innovative and exciting method of training, John Brookfield’s Battling ropes program brings a much needed Unique and Creative approach to fitness training.”

Tom Furman, PhysicalStrategies.com – “John Brookfield is one of the most impressive teachers I’ve had the good fortune of meeting. His Battling Ropes course takes a simple tool–a rope–and turns it into a whole body workout. John does more than simply instruct, he inspires. His relaxed delivery, colorful anecdotes, and calm sense of technical knowledge are only rivaled by his incredible strength. I consider the opportunity to work with John on the short list of physical workshops on anyone’s “bucket list”. If John is giving a workshop in your area, by all means attend. You will never be disappointed.”

Chris Combs, Duke University Strength and Conditioning, Pittsburgh Steelers, 2000-2001, Jacksonville Jaguars, 2002-2003 – “The Battling Ropes training spike the heart rate and quickly fatigue the upper-body. An athlete who has suffered a lower-body injury would find this to be a great alternative to UBE ergometers. We hope to utilize them with our injured players during practice.”

Zach Even-Esh, Underground Strength Coach, Crossfit Underground – “John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes are quickly becoming one of my favorite tools for developing power and endurance in every inch of the body as well as an amazing conditioning tool. We have only just begun to tap into the endless potential of the ropes and all our athletes are feeling the powerful effects immediately. This is a must-have tool for athletes; I have seriously never felt anything like this from any other training implement.”

Charlie Lysak, 9th degree black belt Sento Method, 7th degree black belt Jiu Jitsu, 6th degree black belt Pankration, 6th degree black belt in American Kick Boxing, Martial Arts Hall of Fame, Founder of Primal Strength and Conditioning – “John Brookfield is a pioneer in strength training. Once again, he is writing a new chapter in the strength training world. I have been involved in martial arts and strength training for thirty plus years and nobody understands strength training like John Brookfield. My first experience with the Battling Ropes was an eye opener to say the least. The program is incredible. It works every muscle in your body and mimics the fight energy you need for sport, or real life situations. It’s truly a unique workout. If your strength training and don’t have this program, you are missing out. There is no doubt, John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes training is one of the missing links in training. It’s a demanding workout that will challenge you mentally and physically, preparing your body to deal with lactic acid. During this workout you are competing against the rope and yourself. You will get results you never thought possible. If you want a workout that will humble you and bring you to a new level, this is it. Thanks, John, for introducing a new era in strength and conditioning.”

Logan Christopher, LegendaryStrength.com – “I would rank John Brookfield as one of the very top strength athletes in the world. Easily some of the strongest hands in the world, but he’s also got crazy endurance whether its tossing around heavy kettlebells, pulling huge trucks, or swinging ropes. If you get a chance to learn from John shut up and start taking notes.”

Randall J. Strossen, Ph.D., President of Ironmind – “I’ve known John Brookfield for almost 20 years, going to back to when he was an active professional strongman in the classic sense and aspired to have the world’s strongest hands. John went on to become the second man in the world to officially close the Captains of Crush® No. 3 Gripper and the first man to get certified for bending the Ironmind® Red Nail, which he did in very traditional style. But his book, Mastery of Hand Strength, showed an even greater gift that John has which is a creative mind coupled with an unblinking belief in his latest concepts that has allowed John to keep churning out new training ideas, benefiting both his own training and that of those lucky enough to learn from him.”

Matt Olson, Strength & Conditioning Coach for Brock Lesnar, Sean Sherk and Kaitlin Young – “After going through the Battling Ropes Certification course with John, my fitness level has been pushed farther than ever before. The program compliments API’s Caveman Training™ in such a way that it reinforces the same principles of working in the “redzone”. The simplicity of the Battling Ropes makes it so easy to take anywhere and still achieve a tremendous workout. The ropes look so easy but once you have tried it, the feeling of easy is evaporated and it truly tests the true grit of the person. My strength in my total body, especially my grip and hand strength.”

Ivan Ivanov, Head Greco Roman Wrestling Coach, Olympic Training Center, Silver Medalist 1994 World Championships, Six-time Bulgarian National Champion – “Thanks, John, for coming to the Olympic Center to teach our wrestlers your Battling Ropes system. It was great to get all the instruction directly from you, the creator of the system. I strongly believe that your Battling Ropes system will benefit our wrestlers in a great way. All of the wrestlers quickly saw how the training will help them go to the next level.”

Jim Gruenwald, Assistant Greco Roman Wrestling Coach, Olympic Training Center, Two-time Olympian 2000 & 2004, American Championship Gold Medalist, 1998 – “I think that John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes training system is one of the best functionally sports-specific activities for cross training. The Battling Ropes allow the athlete to develop muscular, as well as cardiovascular endurance, which is a must for any wrestler.”

Adam Wharton, National Director of Personal Training Development, Bally Total Fitness, Level I Battling Ropes Coach, NASM-CPT, Corrective Exercise Specialist, Performance Enhancement Specialist – “I use the Battling Ropes System as an innovative and dynamic way to enhance an individual’s workout experience. From weight loss goals to performance enhancement goals, the Battling Ropes System has tremendous crossover appeal and can be adapted to the needs of any clientele. More importantly, it’s fun!”

Tim Anderson, RKC – LEVEL-2, Owner, T.A.’s Fitness – “No matter what your sport, profession or hobby, the Battling Ropes System is an awesome training system for developing a body capable and prepared for anything. John is truly a gentle giant. His instruction is clear and his teaching method will put you at ease. John is a great teacher; humble, patient and genuine. I would recommend Battling Ropes to anyone serious about building a powerful, functional body.”

Lieutenant R.J. Long, South Carolina Highway Patrol – “I was in the CrossFit Cert in Charlotte and would like to take the opportunity to thank you for the exposure to your Battling Ropes system – all that I can say is WOW! I was absolutely shocked at the intensity of a 60-second workout with the rope! Thank you!”

Dr. Bill Crawford, Physician, “Full-sterkur” Stonelifter (carried The famous Husafell Stone in Iceland a complete trip around the fabled goat pen of Snorri Bjornsson) – “John, I wanted to thank you again for the personal instruction with the Battling Ropes. The Pole System and Battling Ropes system are the type of training that is only needed to be tried once to know that these are systems that will bring the type of results that a strength athlete must have to succeed. The application of the Battling Ropes systems you developed will bring strength to all parts of the body, including the grip as well as cardiovascular conditioning. As a stonelifter, I am always looking for ways to conquer the largest of stones. A good stonelifter needs to be strong and have a high degree of cardiovascular conditioning, attributes that can be enhanced with the Battling Ropes systems you devised. Thank you again for the the personal instruction in the most novel and groundbreaking strength and conditioning tool I have ever seen.”

Hakim Isler, Founder, Elite Guard, LLC, 2nd degree To-Shin Do Black Belt (modern-day ninjutsu) – “After my first introduction to Battling Ropes, I knew it was something that was revolutionary. My friend who introduced me to John Brookfield tried to explain the system to me many times, but the idea of getting a good workout by using ropes seemed laughable at best. However, since I am always open to giving new things a try, I went to check it out. I was astonished by the professionalism of John and the effectiveness of the Battling Ropes system. It impressed me so much that two weeks later I enrolled into the Instructor Certification Program. Now that I am an Instructor, I plan to teach this system at my gym, thus introducing others to the Battling Ropes revolution.”

Jake Herbert, NCAA champion & Three-time All-American, Northwestern University – “John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes training helps me keep my cardio and strength conditioning up to the olympic level. The training greatly increases my intensity level as well as my grip strength. The training is like pushing through the hardest match of your life, even though you are only battling the rope. I highly recommend the Battling Ropes training for any wrestler or combat athlete.”

James M., Former British SAS, Rugby Coach – “I had a try at Mr. Brookfield’s Battling Ropes training. Boy, was I surprised! As a former British SAS member, I thought I had seen everything. The basic velocity training pushed me to the extreme to keep going and the partner training was deceptive to say the least. I tried my best to keep up with Mr. Brookfield’s surging of the rope, but I could of easier held on to a tiger’s tail.”

Philip Pfister, 2006 World’s Strongest Man Champion – “I have known some very strong guys. However, John is one of those super rare guys who is not simply among the strongest in the world, but is truly head-and-shoulders above the rest of us. His specialty feats of strength are inconceivable in their scope and difficulty. All of his otherworldly power comes from his limitless faith and unending innovativeness and creativity. When it comes to developing strength, John smashes through all barriers. He knows no boundaries. Over his lifetime, he has developed thousands of simple and effective exercises and concepts. These home-grown approaches are available to everyone through his books, DVDs and seminars. His approach is simple, easy to understand, field-tested and proven. John Brookfield is a great hero, inspiration and friend to me and many of my other superstrong friends.”

Eric Dawson, Personal Trainer, High School Football Coach, Former Offensive Lineman, North Dakota State University – “I discovered the Battling Ropes system when I was in search of something to supplement my traditional barbell, dumbbell, and elliptical workouts. What I found was something more. It combined the feeling of traditional weight training and cardiovascular work into one extremely challenging and oddly enjoyable workout. As a personal trainer and high school football coach, I have found tremendous success training both clients and players with the Battling Ropes system.  I just wanted to let you know I received the shipment of ropes and I definitely appreciate you adding in the small rope for the kettlebell exercises.  I have also experimented with doing pull ups and inverted rows with them to strengthen my hands and overall upper body.  The 100-foot rope is quickly becoming my favorite; I have even tried some of the velocity with it.”

James Woodall, Owner, Woodall’s Fitness Training – “In May 2008, I attended the Battling Ropes certification with John Brookfield. I am an individual who learns by performing the movement, rather than being told what to do or seeing it drawn on a board or in a book. Mr. Brookfield’s course is all hands-on training with science and sweat to backup the workout’s claims. I would highly recommend Battling Ropes to any coach, fitness trainer or serious athlete that wants to increase their knowledge of how the body works, and learn how to out perform the competition. I have great respect for Mr. Brookfield and his family, and I am very proud and honored to have John as a friend and mentor. Anyone that wants to increase strength and endurance needs to give John Brookfield a call and sign up for the next Battling Ropes course.”

Chris Metzger, Head Football Coach, Pinecrest High School, Southern Pines, NC – “Thank you for coming out and getting our staff and athletes started on your Battling Ropes system. We are blessed to have the creator of the system on site teaching for our training. I know that your Battling Ropes system will greatly help our athletes push themselves to a whole new level of fitness and confidence to push past their limits.”

Michelle J Benedict, CA, USA Weightlifting Club Coach, CrossFit Level II Instructor, Catalyst Athletics Level I Coach, Battling Ropes Level I Coach – “After mastering so many aspects of fitness, John Brookfield took the time to show me that there was a missing link. Wow, after 30 seconds I wanted to pretend I had the flu…he stuck with me and didn’t give up on me. I have seen the benefits to the Battling Ropes, but to embrace them and learn to love them have taken me to a whole new level.”

Tarek D., Officer, Selbyville, Delaware – “Awesome workout. I got both ropes; my kids think it is fun and that’s huge to me!!! I tell you, it kicked my butt the first time! Wow!”

Charles W., U.S. Marine Recon – “As impressive and result-producing as John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes system is, the most amazing thing that I experienced was John’s own ability with the Battling Ropes. As a member of an elite military unit, I must say the man was amazing in his own performance. He was very humble in his manner and presentation, however, his speed with the Battling Ropes was almost mesmerizing. A few of us also got the honor to try out the sports version of John’s system. I was able to win my first two matches and thought I was supreme until I had a try with John on the other end of the ropes. To put it simple, now I know why John is not only the creator, but also the grand master of the Battling Ropes system.”

Michael Fry, Grapplers Gym, Force One Readiness – “John, first I would like to thank you for taking the time to teach me about your training system. Boy, was I floored by how my body felt after only a few short minutes! What I love about your system is that it eliminates the fear of injury because when you done, your done. There is no fear of dropping weights on your head or falling due to fatigue. At the end of the day, you have taken a simple 1-1/2” and 2” rope and made it into a total body workout that every combat athlete should be doing as part of their training program. I HIGHLY recommend it to all my athletes. Great product by a great coach!”

Jason Brown, Kettlebells for Combat, Kettlebell Athletics – “We use the Battling Ropes in our combat circuits. In my opinion, there isn’t anything out there that replicates the demands of stand up grappling/pummeling as well as the Battling Ropes.”

Mike Martino, Ph.D., CSCS, ACSM-ETT, CES, Exercise Physiologist, 1992 & 1996 USA Swimming Olympic Advisory Coaching Staff, NSCA Southeast Regional Director, NSCA Georgia State Director, Georgia College & State University Milledgeville, GA – “John Brookfield has created one of the most unique training systems available to mankind to date. I have worked with athletes ranging from prepubescents to world-record holders. The Battling Ropes are one of those unique training tools that will stay in your “training tool box”. It is amazing what you can do with a section of 50-foot rope. You can train for muscular endurance, cardiovascular endurance, anaerobic endurance, muscular strength, power, and mental toughness with one training apparatus. I have used the Battling Ropes with the following sports: swimming, basketball, softball, baseball, golf, cross country, tennis, football, and especially with mixed martial arts fighters. The system can be adapted in numerous ways by manipulating the length and size of the rope. I even have my 9-year-old son train with a 1-1/4″ rope in our den. This system can be used for almost anyone! Thank you for creating a “physiological phenomenon” for the world of physical conditioning!”

Paul Bukky, Head Coach, Columbus Academy Wrestling, Wrestling Director of the Arnold Classic Fitness Expo – “I would like to thank you for the very informative and rigorous demonstration of Battling Ropes. I am confident that the coaches in attendance will implement all aspects of the system in their respective sports. We will definitely be making it a significant part of our training and conditioning for our school’s Wrestling Team. The best part of the whole system is that it is applicable to every sport. Thanks again for a great tool. We look forward to further consultation with you and your Battling Ropes.”

Brian Mobley, Professional Highlands Games Athlete – “I was searching for a way of training for strength and speed that would also increase my flexibility. The best Highland Games athletes are also the most fluid in motion. I was talking with John Brookfield and he commented that I should take a look at rope training. He said that it creates forces which act upon the body in ways that normal weight training cannot. Knowing that John is a master at creating new and effective ways to exercise, I decided to pursue his suggestion. John Brookfield and Steve Mosley have produced a system of exercises that make use of heavy manila ropes. They demonstrated for me how to run through a circuit of exercises using a 50′ x 1-1/2″ inch rope. I immediately knew that Battling Ropes would fill the training need I have. Any athlete who is looking for a competitive edge should begin rope training. It is an intense training that is at the same time very safe. I expect to see Battling Ropes appear in a broad range of athletic endeavors and I believe it will become an accepted means of exercise.”

Jeff Martone, Tactical Athlete Training Systems, Inc. – “There are a few words that describe John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes System: Humbling – because it will tax your entire system in short order (60 seconds or less) regardless if you’re a world-class athlete or a novice. Relentless – like the ocean surf pounding big rocks into grains of sand. Versatile – the gains of strength, stamina, and power are mind-blowing. Simple & Safe – suitable for handicapped, sedentary, and elite athletes.

I highly recommend John Brookfield’s innovative and challenging Battling Ropes System, DVD and workshop.”

Scott LaPlace, Head Basketball Coach, Fremont High School, Fremont, IN – “I’ve been working out with John Bruney for 17 months now and it is amazing how great I feel. The Battling Ropes have always been a big part of our work out. I am 48 years old and I am not trying to compete in a strong man competition. My goal is to keep my heart and lungs in good condition and also gain a little strength. Being a head basketball coach, I am always looking for new, innovative ways to get my players into the best physical shape of their lives. Using the Battling Ropes increases the heart rate rapidly so a workout is about 45 minutes long. This is great for someone with the schedule that I have with such limited time. I love how we get our heart rate racing with the first exercise and keep it racing for the entire 45 minutes with different rope routines. Now, my personal resting heart rate is around 60 beats per minute (great for insurance purposes as well). I love using the different widths of ropes to work on different facets of my health. The 2″ rope helps with strength as well as endurance and the 1″ rope is great for quickness. Over the 17 months I can really feel a difference in the amount of time I can go and how much quicker I can get my reps in. One of my favorite routines is pulling the 2″ rope around a poll for ½ mile – mile. I feel this has helped my upper body strength significantly. I also see a difference in my players upper body strength. I have really enjoyed doing these rope routines. They are different, fun and helpful for full body training. I love the energy I feel and the fact that I know these workouts push my heart rate to the limit. It has helped my players with their endurance as well. It is much more fun than the typical sprinting. I appreciate your creative thinking for workouts and a very special thank you to John Bruney for training me and helping give me new ideas for training my basketball players.”

Howard Waldstreicher, Owner, Half Hour Power, Denver, CO – “I have tried all the toys, kettlebells, sandbags, etc…Nothing compares to the Battling Ropes. What I love about the Battling Ropes is that you really don’t have to keep shooting for heavier weights which can lead to injury and normally does. Instead, you go longer and harder. When you can’t go anymore you just throw the rope down. I also love the fact I am getting strength and anaerobic at one shot. It’s fun to watch my clients do it for the first time. They seem ok and then in about 15 seconds the look on their face changes. I have a lot of clients now who can make a minute at a hard pace and that is a great sense of accomplishment for them; you know you are improving. After one hard session I did, I literally had a pump all day. I have never nor do I know anyone that ever had that feeling from just lifting weights. Living in Colorado, I snowboard and ski and I can’t think of anything else that can simulate the speed aspect of those sports while working the core tremendously. I am training college & junior lacrosse and tennis players and they love it. They love the fact that they are getting their butt kicked in such a short time. No need to spend an hour in the gym anymore. The women I train love and hate it. They love the fact they are working hard, but hate how hard it is.”

Joe Roberts, U.S. Army, Ft. Bragg, NC – “I want to thank you once again for taking the time to provide me quality one-on-one training. Unlike many training systems nowadays, your (system) focuses on the quality–not quantity–of training. Everything I took part in truly enhanced the “mind-muscle connection.” If a person hasn’t achieved a warrior mindset, it will truly be called upon when taking part in the training that you offer. Most of all, the fact that you can “walk the walk” with what you offer is a testament to the “real world” applications of this training. I’m not only convinced, I’m converted over to the types of training you offer.”

Amy Bruney, Head Cheerleading Coach, Tri-State University – “I was so impressed with John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes system. The concepts were easy to understand and learn, yet when I actually tried the drills they pushed my muscle and mental toughness to the maximum. I could envision how the exercises would not only make me more fit as a person, but they would also take my cheerleading squads to the next their next level of optimal performance and fitness. I cannot wait to incorporate this innovative training in their conditioning routines.”

Lieutenant Rick Tufts, Pinehurst (NC) Fire Department - “I would like to say a little about myself and how the Battling Ropes training relates to me. First, I am a 47-year-old Lieutenant with Pinehurst Fire Department and consider myself somewhat in shape because of the jobs we are called to do. Sure, we have a mandatory two-hour physical fitness program at work and I run on my days off, have competed in three triathlons, a number Scott Air Pack Firefighter Combat Challenges, have won four Toughest Firefighter Challenges and have participated in many 5K and 10K road races. All of this comprised of the basic knowlesge of physical training and using various and expensive training aids. Then, I get a phone call from a friend of mine, Mr. John Brookfield. John knows that I train pretty hard for various events and thought I would like information on his Battling Ropes training. Being open, yet skeptical about this program, I went to his home where he explained and demonstrated the steps of Battling Ropes. I first look at John as if he has really fallen off his rocker after he hoisted large diameter manila ropes out to a basketball goal. He went on to explain the simple, yet very effective steps of Battling Ropes training. My turn to try this out and I was truly amazed. I was physically and mentally exhausted after about two, start and start minutes of rope training. Take it from me, this is a very cost effective program, it is simple to use, there is NO impact on any body part to cause injury and all it takes is a training session, a manila rope of at least 50 feet, a diameter of rope one can work with and a stationary object. This made a beliver in me and I hope to incorporate two different Battling Ropes exercises in to our bi-annual physical fitness testing. To anyone who has some reservations about this being a viable training tool: All I can say is to attend a Battling Ropes training class and see for yourself. It works! Thank you, John!”

Bryan, U.S. Army Special Forces – “John’s workout system is one of the best I’ve ever encountered. He took me and my co-workers through a 40-minute session that impressed everyone–even the initial unbelievers. The workout you get from doing John’s exercises is something that has to be experienced to be believed. My co-workers and I do all kinds of workouts–from varying lifting/cardio routines to combatives (hand-to-hand)–yet what John showed us that day was amazing. I strongly endorse John’s sessions for everyone! You will not be disappointed.”

Ray Anderson, Owner, Elite Fitness and CrossFit Murrieta – “Our clients LOVE the Battling Ropes! They cannot believe the workouts that they’re getting from them. I’ve made believers out of them. At first, they doubted the concept & thought that I was crazy. But, once they went through the workouts they thought differently. We use them as often as possible. I will probably have to order some more of the 50 footers – 1/1/2″ & 2″ soon!”

Jason Culbreth, CrossFit North Carolina – “Thanks so much for the seminar. The application for conditioning and the direct application to overall fitness is excellent. We have begun to really implement more of the Battling Ropes training into our workouts of the day. The most surprising thing to me was the partner training. It was amazing how much the intensity increased in this environment. Just fighting against the power and the wave created by the other person was incredible. We are looking forward to the sport competition and events that you will be putting on. Thanks again for an awesome seminar. We are looking forward to exploring the world of ropes for overall fitness and fighter training.”

Vanessa M. Hood, Fitness Center Director, Winston-Salem State University, YMCA Personal Training Instructor, IFTA Certified Personal Training Instructor, AAU World Powerlifting Champion, ChicoMetric Certified Training Instructor – “As a female powerlifter and fitness guru, I am always looking for fresh, new and innovative ways to develop more power and strength as well as maintain the level of fitness I have achieved. The natural movements that emphasis the flow of current of the Battling Ropes System is a sure way to keep muscles sharp and conditioned, as well as improve strength gains, cardiovascular development and stamina. The knowledge, talent, and skill put into this innovation will sustain its position in the fitness industry for many years to come. Thanks, John!”

Amber Burns, CrossFit Instructor, CrossFit North Carolina – “John’s seminar was fantastic! His knowledge and variety of exercises with Battling Ropes was immeasurable. The creativity and versatility of each exercise allows for a total body workout. Battling Ropes exercises can be geared towards any fitness level. I have been enjoying, exploring, and passing on this innovated training system to other women. As a female athlete I look forward to adding Battling Ropes to my training to reach my full competition potential.”

Rocannon MacGregor, Ph.D., Rocannon.com – “Over the last 18 months, I have been integrating the Battling Ropes into my Primal Nature Workouts. I use the long ropes 2-4 times a week. I use the Battling Ropes in many different ways. Some days I use them for the warm-up or warm-down phase…other days they may be a main focus of the workout. I get as creative as possible with the Battling Ropes so that I am constantly having to adapt to new stress. I have experienced an increase in my grip strength, my endurance, and my ability to maintain joint stability and integrity from my play with the Battling Ropes. Thanks for adding to my arsenal of primal toys. Live Large.”

Christopher Mize, Combatives Training Instructor, 20th SFG Birmingham, Alabama – “The Battling Ropes provide a unique and very satisfying method of circuit integration. The Battling Ropes allow a person to fuse components such as sandbags, kettlebells and plyos by bridging. The Battling Ropes intensity can be raised or lowered safely without the fear of injury, so they fit ideally into the beginning, middle or end of any intense circuit.”

Kelly Moore, Master of Sport, Olympic Clubbell Sport, Powerlifting Champion – “The Battling Ropes provide not only a fantastic shoulder-and-grip workout, but they also are excellent for the posterior chain. The hams, glutes and lower back will be screaming in short order. Don’t forget the cardio: The Battling Ropes will take care of that, too! The Battling Ropes are scalable, fun and easy to learn; they can be used to train de-conditioned folks or to provide a “kick butt” workout in elite athletes. Simple, effective and fun: This is a great piece of equipment that any athlete (especially a CrossFitter) would find to be a useful part of the toolbox. Just imagine the fun if sets of Battling Ropes would be combined with pullups and sandbag clean-and-presses for time!”

Catherine Imes, Girevoy Sport Champion – “John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes System is a great addition to my training and fits wonderfully into my Kettlebell conditioning circuits. In addition to being an awesome anaerobic conditioning tool, it is also great for grip and muscular endurance and will no doubt benefit my training for Kettlebell Sport (GS).”

Bill, U.S. Army Special Forces – “I first met John Brookfield about sixteen years ago when he was becoming one of the world’s top gripmasters. Well, he’s been there, done that, got the t-shirt. John has been consistent in bringing new ideas to the fitness world. His latest one, Battling Ropes, has to be the best yet. It’s the one system you can train anywhere, anytime, and get a full body workout that challenges you physically and mentally. I encourage you to try it!”

Dr. William Urosevich, Martial Arts Hall of Fame, Colonel, U.S. Army Reserve, Liaison Officer, West Point Military Academy – John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes System gives a fresh perspective on combining aerobic fitness and strength conditioning. The system is easy to follow and perform. I strongly endorse this innovative training system.

Captain Murrel Tyson, Police Defensive Tactics Instructor, Athens, Georgia – “John Brookfield has been the driving force for many who seek to improve their strength and overall fitness. John continues to break new ground with his Battling Ropes System. I highly recommend the program offered from this world-class athlete. If it’s power, endurance, and a combat-ready fitness system you seek, look no further: John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes System will get you there!”

Mike Burgener, CSCS, Senior International Olympic Weightlifting Coach, (Lift hard and heavy or go home to mommy!) – “I had the opportunity to experience the Battling Ropes system that John Brookfield has developed in developing sustaining power. I have to tell you that I experienced hard core training like never before. The core of my body was absolutely trashed after 60 seconds of the power surge that the ropes demand! I returned to Rancho Buena Vista high school and ordered four 50′ ropes to put into my program. I am sure I will be ordering more in the near future.”

Josh Everett, Strength & Conditioning Coach, UC Riverside Athletics, Riverside, CA – “When it comes to the Battling Ropes system, doing is believing! I watched the presentation and said to myself, “I see the grip work and the local muscular endurance.” When I tried out the exercises, it blasted my core and my heart rate shot up as well! There was so much more to the workout than my eyes had led me to believe. Talk about functional ab work. This training is perfect for athletes looking for a way to train their abs in a standing position to maintain midline stabilization and balance while absorbing tremendous outside forces. The exercises you can do with the ropes are only limited by your imagination! I am really impressed with the variety of exercises Mr. Brookfield has developed using this system.”

Christopher Beltrante, Certified Circular Strength Instructor, ACE Certified Personal Trainer – “If you want to attack and conquer your anaerobic threshold and be able to build your strength at the same time, then the Battling Ropes system is what you need. I had the opportunity to train one-on-one with John Brookfield in Pinehurst, NC and it was not only an educating experience to me, but a humbling one. The Battling Ropes will show you what you’ve been missing from your daily training and then enhance your training very effectively in a short period of time. John Brookfield was not only a great teacher, but a very motivational one, too. Just seeing John work the Battling Ropes will give one the incentive and motivation to push themselves past their anaerobic threshold and achieve better results in one’s training. So, if you’re looking for a way to jump start your training to a new level or break through a plateau, then the Battling Ropes are for you!”

Maureen Martone, Co-Owner of Tactical Athlete Training Systems, Inc. – “Who could imagine a total body strength and conditioning routine with an intense cardio workout could be done with something as unassuming as a rope! Yes, that’s right! The Battling Ropes will not only provide you with a total body workout, but also provide one for the entire family as well.”

Steve Maxwell, Two-Time Brazillian Jiu Jitsu World Champion, Owner, Maxercise Sports/Fitness Training Center – “John Brookfield is one of the most innovative and original strength coaches in the business today. His new Battling Ropes system is an amazing approach to total fitness. The ropes are a whole body exercise approach that would benefit any athlete. I am now incorporating his techniques in my arsenal of moves for all my jiu jitsu fighters and submission wrestlers. The combination of strength, stamina, and cardio needed to get those ropes moving puts the finishing touch on my fighter’s workouts.”

Steve Cotter, Strength Coach, U.S. Full Contact Kung Fu Champion – “I have to say that the Battling Ropes system is unique and awesome! Only someone like John Brookfield who has spent his whole life experiencing and learning new ways to enhance the athlete’s performance could have figured it out! I feel your Battling Ropes system trains the body to maintain power better than anything else imaginable! Thank you again for yet another great contribution to the strength and conditioning world.”

Steve Jeck, Writer & Speaker, Author of the motivational bestseller, The Stone Lifter – “I stopped being surprised years ago when John Brookfield would develop some new and creative way to develop power and fitness. I have never ceased being amazed! Brookfield’s Battling Ropes system promises to be a versatile, creative, and radically effective means for “roping in” your next training goals!”

Carey Stiller, Owner Fitness Unlimited, Lock Haven, PA “I have been a personal trainer for over fourteen years and I have yet to find an implement that is as useful as John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes System. This was just the right tool that my clients and I have been looking for!”

Dave Campbell, Strength and Conditioning and Defensive Coach, Georgetown (KY) Football Team – “The first time I tried the Battling Ropes, I knew John was on to something special. I promptly ordered some Battling Ropes and implemented them into our program. Great grip and stabilizer work and the anaerobic equivalent of wrestling a bull!”

Greg Stott, Founder Team IXL, U.F.C. XIII and XV, Champion Powerlifter – “John Brookfield, a.k.a. “Mr. Hands”, has been a name synonymous with grip strength for years. What is sometimes overlooked, however, is that John has been able to develop his overall health and stamina to world-class proportions. Anyone looking to improve their speed, endurance and overall strength levels should pay close attention to John’s advice!”

Kim Sloan, Former Radio City Rockette – “I was truly amazed at how quickly the Battling Ropes worked my entire body. I have worked out and been involved in athletics my entire life and never seen anything this effective. I am excited about the results I have achieved with the Battling Ropes!”

Christopher Hash, Former Army Ranger, All-Conference Collegiate Lacrosse Player – “An innovative and explosive program, Battling Ropes is not for the weak of mind or heart. John continues to push the boundaries with unorthodox training programs. The use of John’s system has far reaching benefits for sports and (other) professions. Every aspect of my training–from cardio to recovery–has seen improvements after using the Battling Ropes System.”

Pastor Jon Bruney, World Record Holder, Ripley’s “Believe It or Not!”, Pressing The Limits, Owner, Swager Strength Equipment (SSE) – “John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes program is the best fitness system I have ever seen. The Battling Ropes allow you to train for speed, strength and endurance all at the same time. This is the program for extreme fitness and developing mental toughness. John has elevated fitness to an art!”

Shaun Housekeeper, President, C.A.M.P. Acceleration, College Football All-American, Don Hansen National Linebacker of the Year – “John Brookfield is one of the most innovative people I’ve ever worked with. Training with John and learning from him has elevated not only my own personal workouts, but has really helped raise the success level of my company.”

Ben Oldham, Ph.D., Technical Advisor, Southeastern Conference Football – “John Brookfield is set apart from other great athletes and innovators because he is a great teacher and communicator. John offers practical advice to the novice, as well as the champion athlete.”

Craig Collins, Former Navy Seal, Business Owner – “I have evaluated different systems all my life from a military perspective to a business perspective. However, with John Brookfield’s Battling Ropes System, I was the one being evaluated!”

Ethan Reeve, Head Strength Coach, Wake Forest University – “John called me up to ask if he could speak at our annual North Carolina Strength Coaches Association Clinic. He said he had a strength system that “will revolutionize strength training”. Holy Tamole! What a great presentation! He blew the attendees away! John brought everyone up to get their hands on his Battling Ropes. Everyone was very impressed and could see the value of the Battling Ropes as well as John’s methods of training with them. We highly recommend the Battling Ropes along the additional DVD to add to any strength athlete’s strength program. We also recommend the Battling Ropes for any strength coach when training his/her athletes. We can’t wait to get our athletes training with John’s methods when we get outside this April!”

W.M., SWAT Officer and Law Enforcement Trainer – “I first heard of John Brookfield through mutual friends. At their insistence, I bought his books and followed his training advice on hand strength, making excellent gains. I had the chance to meet him about a year ago for a private tutorial with kettlebells. His easy manner and no nonsense approach to strength training impressed me, so when I had the opportunity to see him at the North Carolina Strength Coaches Association clinic at Wake Forest University, I jumped at the chance. John had mentioned a new system he was working on and I was very eager to hear what he had to say. Well, he had me help demo several of the techniques with the Battling Ropes system and it was amazing at how quickly it smoked me! Everyone in the clinic that tried the system was clearly surprised at how hard it worked them in such a short amount of time, including world class strength trainers. As a law enforcement officer assigned to a SWAT team, I can say that this system will provide anyone who follows it with tremendous power and endurance for prolonged physical activity and a clear advantage in short bursts of activity requiring great power, such as subduing an opponent. When Mr. Brookfield speaks on strength training for functional applications, pay attention.”

Cardo Urso, Lead instructor for defensive measures for US Federal Air Marshals www.acmfs.com - “I have been involved in martial arts for nearly forty years, and I have seen many strength and conditioning programs, the Battling Rope System is one of the best. I train Mix Martial Arts athletes who need explosive power and great cardio this system provides both, in a minimum amount of time. And for my students who are just trying to get in shape, this is a progressive system which can be started at all fitness levels. Thanks John”

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