3 Tips on Using Rubber Mulch for Grappling Surfaces
Grappling sports are usually carried out in ringed arenas with a referee—a lot like boxing. Military camps across all states vary in size, budget, and availability of fixed structures. However, even with the lack of facilities, training cannot be compromised.
Below are 3 tips on how rubber mulch can help you establish grappling as part of your camp’s training (or recreation) even with the lack of space or the absence of proper rings.
1. Zoning: Maximizing camp space
Aside from its durability and its capability to absorb huge amounts of impact, rubber mulch also allows you to divide spaces to create different sections or zones that can accommodate various activities.
Rubber mulch can help you create smaller training and sparring zones in one area without compromising safety.
2. Conditioning area
As you plan your zones, keep in mind that conditioning areas have different requirements from techniques areas. Although rubber mulch flooring is recommended for both, conditioning areas tend to require bigger space to fit weights and basic exercise machines.
However, you can explore the science behind conditioning with one’s own body weight to eliminate the need for machines.
3. Technique development
You can further divide your technique development zones into smaller areas to divide trainees into different skill levels. Or better yet, assign a different technique that each area will focus on.
Keep in mind that choke holds, standup grappling, and ground grappling techniques could differ in area requirements. It could be a good idea to keep areas smaller than what is actually needed to train control and balance.
Rubber mulch comes in different colors that you can assign for each zone. This gives each trainee an idea where his skill level is, what his weaknesses are, and how much more he needs to work to achieve a particular goal.
