Standing Tall

Stepping Up A Class Is All About The Right Preparation.

- Michael Berg

Q I’M A 30-CM BANTAMWEIGHT AND WANT TO MOVE UP A CLASS. WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND I FOCUS ON IN TRAINING IN ORDER TO BEST COMPETE WITH TALLER GUYS? IS THERE ANYTHING I SHOULD BE DOING ONSTAGE AS FAR AS PRESENTATION WHEN UP AGAINST A TALLER COMPETITOR?

STEVE WEINBERGER

In the amateur divisions with a weight limit, you actually have an advantage over a taller competitor in the same weight class. As a shorter competitor, you’re able to come into a contest with a thicker physique, with fuller muscle bellies. Obviously, at your size, you need to come into a competition close to the upper limit of your class or otherwise you give away this advantage. Concentrate on developing balance. If an area seems harder to develop, you must make it a priority.