753 Code of the Valente Brothers: Exercise
7th June 2023
By Christopher Charalambous
753 Code – Exercise
The Samurai, legendary warriors of ancient Japan, embodied discipline, honour, and unparalleled physical prowess. Central to their way of life was a commitment to rigorous training and physical conditioning. The Samurai’s dedication to physical fitness not only shaped their bodies but also contributed to their mental and spiritual development. We draw inspiration from their practices to showcase the importance of exercise in cultivating strength, discipline, and overall well-being.
Combat Training: Ju Jutsu was an important aspect of training for Samurai warriors. They were well-armoured and usually on horseback and the art of Ju Jutsu was essentially developed to allow the Samurai to fight effectively in the event that they found themselves disarmed and on foot
Strength and Endurance: Samurai warriors engaged in intense physical training to develop strength and endurance including weight training, calisthenics, and cardiovascular activities, built their physical capabilities for combat.
Agility and Flexibility: The Samurai valued agility and flexibility as essential attributes on the battlefield. They trained in horseback riding, which demanded swift movements and quick reflexes. Stretching exercises, yoga, and martial arts drills were incorporated into their training to enhance flexibility and agility.
Discipline and Focus: The rigorous exercise routines of the Samurai instilled discipline and focus. Their training required unwavering dedication, perseverance, and mental fortitude. By adhering to a strict regimen, they learned to overcome physical and mental obstacles, fostering a resilient and focused mindset.
Stress Reduction: The demanding nature of a Samurai’s life could create significant stress. Exercise served as a cathartic outlet for stress relief, helping them maintain emotional balance and mental clarity. Physical activity stimulated the release of endorphins, promoting a sense of well-being and reducing stress levels.
Applying Samurai-inspired Exercise Principles to my life
Studying Ju Jutsu has become such a massive part of my life it has helped me build strength, develop discipline, and self-confidence while providing effective self-defense techniques. Which are so important in the world that we live in, I hope to never have to use them but I would 100% prefer to know the techniques and not need them than to need the techniques and not know them.
Ju Jutsu has helped cultivate my mind-body connection. Being able to control my breathing and mentally focus when my training partners are doing there best to make me as uncomfortable as possible has helped to develop my ability to relax and maintain emotional balance.
Developing a structured workout helps me develop strength, flexibility as well work on the some of the fundamental moves like bridging, standing up in base etc. The Samurai’s commitment to physical training and exercise was integral to their way of life, contributing to their exceptional strength, discipline, and mental fortitude. By incorporating exercise principles inspired by the Samurai, I’m hoping that I can strive for similar physical and mental benefits. Whether through Ju Jutsu, mindful movement, or disciplined strength training, embracing exercise as a path to personal growth and well-being can lead to a transformative journey, just as it did for the legendary Samurai warriors.
“The Way is in Training”
Thanks for reading everyone
Steve
