Leg Throw Downs - Partner Assisted Core Exercise

This page provides details about Leg Throw Downs. This is an advanced partner-assisted exercise used by some martial artists in order to strengthen their core muscles. A stronger core allows martial artists to better withstand hits (i.e. a punch to the stomach). Moreover, a stronger core helps to improve a martial artist's "rotational" or twisting power and this contributes to stronger kicks, punches and grappling techniques.

In this core exercise, a martial arts student will lie on their back. The student will raise their legs and their partner will push the legs back towards the ground. The student will use their core muscles to prevent their legs from hitting the ground. However, the training partner should be informed by instructors that they must avoid injuring the student by pushing too strongly. In addition, this exercise is not suitable for anyone with back issues.

All stretches and exercises should be supervised by a trained martial arts instructor in order to prevent injuries and to ensure the proper technique is utilized. For other exercises, please visit the Core Exercises or Physical Fitness sections.