Pilates training is a great from of exercise to take up. It is a great way to supplement your conditioning in the martial arts. The core exercises, that is the abdomen in Pilates will take your conditioning to a new level.Training your abs is part of your body’s foundation.

That’s right its not your Heculean biceps, or Achilles calves. All self defense techniques originates from the core (abdomen). When applying that armbar on a six foot person and utilizing your whole body with the help of your abs, makes the technique more effective. Your movements will be lighting quick.

I highly recommend that you join a Pilates class. Pilates will make you strong and flexible not buffed, its not just for a woman. Anyone can benefit from Pilates, young or old.

Here are some basic core exercises for your upper and lower abdomen:

• Upper – all of these exercises require that you lie down on the floor, preferable on a yoga type mat. knees bent curl up and hold for 1 to 2 seconds. hands at your ears, while you’re holding tighten up your tummy.
• knees pointing outward, feet touching each other – curl up but with hands pointing towards your feet
• lower abdomen – point your feet straight up, curl up with hands pointing towards your feet, (up)
• feet straight up, curl up with hands paralleling the floor and moving past your hips

There are countless of exercises but these are good ones to start with.